Styles By Steph

Dolly Parton has always been one of those people I just loved. ❤️

Growing up, I was drawn to her in a way I didn’t really understand at the time. Her big hair, her femininity, her humor, her music, but mostly that big heart of hers. She had a way of making people feel good about themselves without ever making anybody feel less than.

And then there was Steel Magnolias and Truvy’s little beauty shop.

Lord, I loved that beauty shop. 😂❤️

I think somewhere between watching Dolly and watching those women gather around that salon, I fell in love with the idea of what a beauty shop could be.

Because now I’m a hairstylist with a little salon right here next to my house… and I understand it.

The hair is just the excuse.

The real magic is the women who walk through the door.

The stories. The laughing. The crying. The life that happens in between shampoo bowls and foils. The friendships that grow over years. The women who come in needing their roots done and leave with their spirits lifted, too.

That’s why the Swamp Fox stays open.

It’s not because I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. It’s because I genuinely love this little life I’ve built around my chair and the people who have become part of it.

Dolly showed me a long time ago that you don’t have to be fancy or have the biggest thing in the world to make a difference.

Sometimes you just need a little shop, a good heart, some big hair, and a place where women know they belong. 🤍

So thank you, Dolly, for being a little piece of the inspiration behind this stylist’s life.

I sure hope I can leave a little of the same kind of goodness behind.

And yes… the Swamp Fox will keep the lights on, the coffee hot, and the hairspray flowing. 😂❤️

Happy 15th birthday to our beautiful daughter. We are so proud of you! You are outgoing, you show up and truly care for your friends and family, you bust your chops in sports and schooling, you have sass for days and you are a light in this world! Stay bright! Love you always!