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

Hi Karen, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Work life balance is important to me because I love my work and what I do, but I also do not want my family to feel negatively impacted by my career choice. Although my balance has evolved over the years and after opening my second salon location, I am still very mindful of how I spend my time. The great thing about this business is it can be as time consuming or as flexible as you want it to be so the choice is yours.

What should our readers know about your business?
I had been going through my own wellness journey when the opportunity was presented to me by the owners of Thermal Horizons Yoga and Wellness Center to bring a salon space to their business. I thought to myself that this could be such a unique idea that was missing in our community. So, Thermal Dry Bar was born. We wanted to give guests in our community the option to get hair services, including color, that had a more holistic approach. We use a hair product that is organic and non-toxic, as well as our color line that also focuses on non-toxic ingredients and is free of ammonia, PPD, and fragrance-free, amongst so many other benefits. We are in a very special space with so many other female business owners who are there to support one another and create a community that thrives, providing wellness in so many forms.

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 would start with brunch at Eat Real Cafe on Main Street and then go on a hike to one of Santa Clarita’s (hiking Placerita canyon to the waterfalls is my favorite). Then stop into Thermal Horizons Wellness Center for a fresh juice and protein snack from Fitty Foodie, a Sauna/cold plunge for after that hike, followed by a wash and blow out from the Thermal dry bar. If you are lucky enough to drop in on a Saturday they are having a sound bath; it really would be the perfect way to end your day. If you are looking for a great dinner spot, I would head back to Main Street to The Old Town Junction, which has the best seasonal menu.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband definitely deserves a lot of credit for supporting all of my crazy ideas as well as both of my business partners at both locations, Lizzy and Kristy for bringing our ideas to life.

Website: https://www.thermaldrybar.com

Instagram: thermaldrybar

Image Credits
Chelsea Swisher Breiner

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.