Meet Erin Will | Hair Stylist

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

Hi Erin, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I was thinking about starting my own business, I wanted to encompass everything that was important to me. I had a lot of guilt around how my occupation was creating so much waste. I also loved doing hair. My thought process was centered on how I could continue doing what I loved and improve the way my actions were impacting those around me: the water, the air and the land. So I combined what I already knew and turned it into a green, sustainable concept.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am a sustainable hair stylist who uses low-tox chemicals and non-toxic products. I am also a member of Green Circle Salons, so 95% of my waste is re-purposed. I have run into many stylists who carry low toxic products or are Green Circle members, but not both! I think this is why certain people gravitate towards my business. I also specialize in balayage and “lived in” low maintenance color and cuts.

Running a business is not easy, it takes a lot of juggling and weighing risks! I feel like I have re-routed a few times with PEAR Hair and that has been the hardest part, being flexible without giving up the things that are most important. Also, realizing when something isn’t working even when you really want it to. The biggest lesson I have learned is: if one idea does not work, you can always pivot and it does not mean you failed. I have agonized over lots of decisions and others were just clear too. Sometimes there is a lot of pressure riding on this one decision and you just have to go with one to move forward.

The thing I want the world to know is that I really sincerely just like what I do. It makes me happy and I think it shows. My clients all have similar beliefs and I feel so lucky to be able to surround myself with a community of like-minded people, and help support my family while doing it!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am very spoiled that I live and work in Highland Park, and to be in Northeast Los Angeles in general. All of my favorite restaurants are here. I recommend Amara Kitchen for breakfast, plus they are right next door to me so I am double-spoiled.

After you eat breakfast at Amara Kitchen, I recommend catching a marionette show at Bob Baker Marionette Theater. It is the coolest little theater for kids and adults with classic red velvet adorning the inside and an old organ, that somebody plays live! I love the “Halloween Spooktacular” and see it every year. After the show, stroll York Blvd and shop at Big Bud Press, Dotter and Nooworks, JOY on York has the most delicious Taiwanese food too.

I recently went to Cruel World Music Festival at the Rose Bowl so I would probably talk anybody into coming that particular weekend if they are into any dark wave, synth, goth-esthetic bands. Before you head out, grab the best bagels at Belle’s and afterwards, Triple Beam Pizza. They never disappoint.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My partner, Joseph, has always encouraged me and pushed me to do anything I felt like was worth the risk. He would do anything to support my dreams and visions.

My children, Valentine and Cecilio opened my eyes to who would be inheriting the earth and encouraged me to attempt a more earth-friendly way to do business.

Website: https://www.pearhair.com

Instagram: @pearhairla