In the Chair with the Vibe Tribe: Lilly

Why did you decide to become a stylist?

It was a little spur of the moment. For a while I wanted to work with animals. That morphed into being a pet groomer. Then in school we had an assembly about the Votech Center, which had a cosmetology program. I thought I could do that and move into pet grooming afterwards, so I started the program in 10th grade. Over the next three years I completed 1,250 hours and had my full license by the time I graduated high school. By that time I realized I really enjoyed being a stylist and didn’t want to work with pets anymore.

I also went on to get a secondary license for teaching cosmetology. I actually met Marissa when I was her student teacher.

When did you join Thanx?

I started in 2019 at the beginning of my junior year of high school. My family had been coming to Thanx for several years. I was working at another salon in Fleetwood but wasn't fully enjoying it. It was a long drive and my parents had to take me. Diane had another stylist at the time who had just finished Votech. She mentioned to my teachers that she was looking for another assistant stylist, and they thought of me. I went to Exeter High School so Thanx was right down the street. I reached out and it was a good fit–both for my schedule and the atmosphere I was looking for.

What’s different about Thanx’s atmosphere?

When I worked for a big salon I had coworkers who didn’t know who I was after nine months. I didn’t feel like I was getting the knowledge or experience I needed to grow. Instead I was basically a cleaning lady. I didn’t even get to shampoo anyone.

At Thanx I was acknowledged by everyone and their clients on the first day. People remembered details I shared about myself. The other stylists were excited to have me shampoo for them. I felt more appreciated in one month here than nine months at my previous salon. 

What do you like most about working at Thanx?

I like that it’s a small salon. Regulars who go to the other stylists will talk to me. Even though I don’t do their service I still feel a connection to them. Our team works well together and we all help each other out. I can pick someone else’s brain, ask questions, and figure out methods with them without feeling like I’m being ignored or a bother.

What do you bring to the team?

I know a lot of weird, useless knowledge, so sometimes I start fun conversations about random things. The other girls are always asking, “Why do you know this?”

I also have a lot of clients who don’t like talking a lot during their appointments. I'm fine with quietly doing my work without the expectation that you have to chat with me the entire time. I’m more introverted than Molly and Marissa, so I’m here for people who want to be quiet. I am more than okay with sitting in silence and not having it feel awkward.

What are your favorite services to offer?

I like working with natural waves and curls, and lived-in and sunkissed colors. I really enjoy seeing my regulars when they come in every 6-8 weeks for touchups.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I spend most of my free time reading, especially fantasy and mystery books. My all time favorite is Alice and Wonderland. A recent favorite is The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon. I read it a year and a half ago and it’s still stuck with me. I took it with me to visit my sister in Chicago and she made fun of me for bringing a massive brick of a book. It was intimidating to start but really easy to get through. I also enjoy traveling and being outside.

What kind of clients are you looking for?

I’m open to anything, whether you’re looking for a simple monthly retouch or want to try something a little different like adding pops of color. I also enjoy clients who want to embrace their natural curls who maybe haven't worked with them before. And if you’re an introvert too or just want a quiet session for any reason, ask for a silent appointment. Quiet is always welcome in my chair.

Book an Appointment With Lilly Today

If you think Lilly might be the stylist for you, you can book a hair or nail appointment online or over the phone at 610-779-1900. You can see some of her work at @lillyshunk_hair. 

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This post was written by Amy Miller, freelance writer and Thanx superfan. You can find out more about her writing services and her personal journey at her blog: A Novelist’s Guide to Rewriting Your Life.