Tell us about yourself!
Tammy’s passion for her craft is something her clients *feel* when working with her. She is a unique amalgamation of creativity and technique, lending to her ability to create high fashion looks that translate to high function. Tammy has been called upon to perform hands-on hair color trainings in salons throughout the globe. Her work has been featured in Behind-the-Chair magazine as well as Modern Salon TV. Tammy spent a decade as a platform artist for a prominent Italian hair color company, Milk_shake, and has over 16 years of full-time salon experience. She is a sole proprietor, working out of Gem Salon, who performs cutting, coloring, and styling services. She prides herself on her expert level service, results, and ability to empathize and truly listen to her clients.
What’s your experience?: I spent ten years as a color ambassador and platform artist for Milk_shake North America and have worked full time in a salon since 2009. I’ve taught and attended classes all over the globe and am consistently learning and evolving as a person and a stylist.
What’s your specialty?: My specialties are lightening services and vivids. I love every single type of lightening service, from balayage to microlights to foils to money pieces to my platinum card babes!! You name it, I love it and can help you achieve it safely with maximum integrity of your hair.
Why do you love what you do?: I love what I do for the connections. Hairdressers build relationships. With you, with your hair, even with your family and friends. We learn and grow together, and I especially love to get *deep*. Let’s skip the small talk and dive right in!
How do you express yourself?: I express myself with fashion, food, and DANCE!!! And lots and lots and lots of laughter.
How do you get out of a creative rut?: I get myself out of a creative rut by first allowing it to exist. Even the most artistic folks can’t be creative 100% of the time. Our brains need time to just chill out and not try to create or do. I take time to simply *be*, and that generally leads to a creativity explosion.
Where do you go in the Twin Cities to be inspired?: To find inspiration in the Twin Cities, I turn toward my community. I am surrounded by creatives in my outside life. Folks who are creating music, art, and experiences. When I’m seeking inspiration without interaction, I’ll walk my neighborhood and marvel at nature and her glory. A nice quiet walk usually cleans my mind and allows inspiration to flow.
Most noteworthy era?: I am such a 90s baby!!! Baggy/oversized clothes, color blocking, bowl cuts, hip hop, and some of the dopest house music to ever exist.
What do you do for self-care?: I’m an avid camper and hiker and I spend lots of my free time in the woods. I love to forage for wild edibles and have had tons of luck throughout the state finding mushrooms and other yummy treats! Dancing is another way I let it all out. If I’m not in the woods or in my kitchen, I’m probably on a dance floor somewhere, cozied up next to a big stack of speakers, vibing the night away.
Piece of advice for those struggling with self-confidence?: Loving yourself is a radical act within capitalism. BE RADICAL.
Must-have product at Gem?: ROZ Hair Milk Serum for sexy, silky, smooth shine!