With the Woman Wednesday series, CatMax Photography introduces you to exceptional female entrepreneurs who have gone through the CatMax Personal Branding Experience.
Today, we invite you to meet Emily McKee, a master hairstylist and owner of Atlanta Hair Color Studio, and the epitome of resilience. From battling a shoulder injury that doctors said would end her hairstyling career to finally purchasing her own salon after 14 years behind the chair, Emily’s journey has been defined by determination. Then came the pandemic just one year after she opened her doors, testing her perseverance once again. Through it all, she’s lived by the motto her grandfather taught her as a girl: “A McKee can do anything they set their mind to.” And she has—building a career that lifts her clients’ confidence while racking up awards from Atlanta Magazine and the Atlanta Awards Program.
Can you tell us a bit about Atlanta Hair Color Studio and what sets it apart?
Emily McKee, a master hairstylist and owner of Atlanta Hair Color Studio
Photo Credit: CatMax Photography
We are a boutique salon dedicated to finding the right stylist for each and every one of our clients. We want every client to look and feel their best. We have a highly educated salon staff offering a diverse variety of color, cut, and treatment techniques to cater to all hair types.
What current goals do you have for the salon, your team, and yourself?
To continue to GROW in every way. This year, my focus is on pouring into education. Hairstylists can easily get burned out if they don’t keep up with what’s new in the industry, and our younger apprentice needs to learn. Education is the No. 1 thing to keep a salon thriving. On top of that, I do want to expand and bring in new artists who are energetic, truly driven, have great teamwork, want to learn, and have great work ethics.
What do you love about being an entrepreneur?
I have always been pulled in different artist and creative avenues. Being an entrepreneur has allowed me to add time for other creative outlets and gives me time to still be present for my kids. That being said, I have no intention of never doing hair behind the chair. Making people feel good about themselves and my relationships with my clients fills my heart!
How do you balance the responsibilities of being a business owner and team leader while still enjoying the creative aspect of being a hairstylist?
Having ADHD, staying consistently engaged helps me manage my energy and focus. I try to maintain a strong balance, though, I’ll be honest—it can feel overwhelming at times. I structure my work week in a way that allows me to stay on top of everything without burning myself out. Typically, I’m behind the chair Tuesday through Saturday, while Mondays are dedicated to the business side of things, like handling payroll, paperwork, orders, and educating. Sundays, I set aside as a true Sabbath day, reserved for rest, time with my two kids, and being present with my church community, unless unexpected salon repairs or urgent matters come up.
Why did you think a branding photo shoot would be beneficial for your business?
Our website was old and outdated, as well as our pictures. I wanted fresh new interiors, headshots, and to be able to show what Atlanta Hair Color Studio is all about. Catrina did just that and more!
How was your shoot with CatMax Photography different from similar photo shoots you’ve done?
Catrina has always been the best photographer I have worked with, being a creative myself. She really listens to my visions to evaluate exactly what I’m looking for. She is so fun to work with and will never disappoint!
Photo Credit: CatMax Photography
Which photos from the shoot are some of your favorites and why?
I love the new interior shots, as I truly feel they show off the vibe of the salon as well as the uniqueness of the space.
What words of wisdom do you have for fellow female entrepreneurs?
Don’t stop following your dreams just because you get a “no”! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard it in my life, but you can achieve anything you set your mind to, so follow your dreams!
Stay up to date with Emily and Atlanta Hair Color Studio on Instagram at @atlantahaircolorstudio. To learn more about the CatMax Photography Personal Branding Experience, click here.