Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Saldivar
Hi Amanda, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’m an El Paso, Texas native who has lived in Austin for the last six years. I worked in Retail Management for almost eight years when I decided to do a drastic career change. In 2020 when the whole world was shaken due to COVID it definitely altered my way of thinking and living. I’ve always been a strong advocate to follow ones dreams no matter how crazy or wild they are-we’ve only got this one life to live so why not make it a great one. I decided to take my own advice and follow a dream that I never thought I’d actually make happen. My mom and aunt are cosmetologists so I always grew up with something being done to my hair. From wild colors to drastic hair changes and I loved it. Getting my hair done always made me feel special. Seeing my mom work her magic with clients in helping them feel good about themselves was inspiring. I was truly impacted seeing genuine connections made with a profession that has been around forever. Fast forward to my “drastic career change” I was set on becoming a barber. After finishing barber school in 2021, I was lucky enough for the opportunity to work at Fadebox, one of the most popular Barbershops in Austin. Being surrounded by extremely talented barbers, while being the least experienced helped me accelerate my growth and hone my skills to where I am today. I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity Eric Alderete gave me in being able to see potential, vision and creating unique spaces for Barbershops and barbers. In May of 2023 my business partner, Raven Villarreal (Little Bird The Barber) and I opened up our shop “The Noble Nest Barbershop.” We’ve created a professional, clean, all are welcomed space where we can give top luxury services. Being able to create a safe space for everyone is something that has been and will always be a main focus in our barbershop.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s been a road of continued growth and perseverance. Everyone I had talked to has always said the first five years of barbering are hard. Having to constantly build clientele, network, and prove yourself are one of main reasons people burn out so quick. A lot of barbers are eager to make money fast when being fresh out of school and it’s not impossible it just is not always the reality. It means being the first one to show up and the last one to leave. I remember when I first started there would be days when I showed up and 9 a.m. and leaving at 7p.m. having only done one hair cut. I was literally working to just make my booth rent during those times. I’m lucky that I had a supportive wife and family to help me see it through.
We’ve been impressed with The Noble Nest Barbershop, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We’re a Female, Latina and Queer/Ally owned barbershop . Raven and I have created a space where all walks of life are welcomed.
We specialize in haircuts, beard shaving, luxury facial treatments all tailored to a client’s liking.
What sets us apart besides exceptional fades and beard work is that we truly take the time to do consultations. Our shop focus is finding the best look for our clients and know that there are no two clients alike. It’s a service that is tailored to a clients best needs.
We pride ourselves in maintaining a clean, professional environment where you can get great service and relaxation.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
A key lesson I learned was the importance of adaptability and resilience. It also showed me the power and value of communities coming together, solidarity and the importance of prioritizing health and well-being.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://noblenestbarbershop.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/thenoblebarber__
- Other: https://instagram.com/noblenestbarbershop
Image Credits
Photo Credit : Rob Mata instagram @robjmata
