Meet Amber Maynard | Hair Artist, Salon Owner, & Mother

We had the good fortune of connecting with Amber Maynard and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amber, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I never wanted to own my own business. The pandemic had other plans for me. I had been working at Nine Zero One Salon for 10 years when Covid hit. My daughter, who was 8 months old at the time, had been diagnosed with a rare metabolic disorder. We were advised to keep her safe, which meant limiting my interactions with people. So, I opened a suite at Salon Republic. Once time had passed it was much safer to start working again, I realized how much I missed being in a salon environment. However, I also realized that the way salons were previously run no longer worked for this new world. So, my friend Mai and I decided to open a salon together. We removed everything that we believed was unhealthy and created a space for artists. A|M salon was born to be a safe space for both stylists and clients alike.

What should our readers know about your business?
I have been in my industry for over twenty years, wearing every hat and being able to relate to almost everyone in the hair world. I know how difficult it is to navigate the ins and outs of such a duplicitous institution. I think my biggest flex has been maintaining my integrity throughout my growth. I have seen too many people change with success and knew I didn’t want to be like that. By watching everyone closely, I learned that I loved helping people. I never wanted to hinder anyone’s success and used battling my own inner saboteur as a way to keep perspective. I choose to always lead with kindness and respect.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, this is so easy and yet extremely hard. Being a LA native, there are so many things to explore and experience. I guess the best way would be to start by heading to the arts district in Downtown. It’s such a great area that has some amazing restaurants like Sampa. Hollywood is always a blast. Maybe start with a hike at Runyon, depending on the time of year, catch a show at the Hollywood Bowl. Can’t forget Weho! So many great spots from the Abbey to a drag brunch at Rocco’s or bingo at Hamburger Mary’s. Drinks at the 1 Hotel, it’s such a scene and always a guaranteed good time. But let’s not forget the biggest draw, the beach. Have breakfast in Venice. Walk the boardwalk before the crowds take over. Then make your way up to Malibu to see the glorious beauty it has to offer. Do a little shopping and have lunch at the Malibu Country Mart and maybe play a little at Malibu Music with Brad and Teena Boeckmann. Finish off the day by heading down to Santa Monica for dinner at Shutters on the Beach. There is so much to do and a week is such little time.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am fortunate enough to have such a solid group of colleagues and friends who have helped support and build me.

First off, my business partner Mai Hernandez. She is truly the opposite of me, but she challenges me and forces me to do better. I couldn’t have asked for anyone better to helm the team with me.

Next, I want to thank my family at Amavi & Sunday School. Nicole Leal and Anthony Holguin have always had my back. They continue to be there with a knowledge of support and friendship.

I also want to give a shout-out to K18 and their amazing team for always believing in me and helping me grow in all the best ways. Especially Jordan Alexander and Be Alexander for always being my advocates and travel companions for the fun work trips.

Lastly, but not least, I want to thank my family. My sister Monique Wright, our matriarch, always being there. My partner Kilee for loving me and just being everything I never knew I needed, and finally, my kids Atticus and Innogen. They keep me on my toes, constantly fighting for a better future for them.

Instagram: @alchemistamber