My name is Tori of Tori's Mane Studio, and I’m so excited to share a little about myself and the story behind my business. I’m 30 years old, the proud daughter of loving parents who have always been my biggest supporters. I grew up in Ojai, California, alongside my two sisters, one older and one younger.  From the beginning, I’ve always had a deep desire to positively impact people’s lives. That passion has been the guiding force behind my journey, both personally and professionally.

I graduated high school in 2013 and decided to follow my creative spark by enrolling in Lu Ross Academy, a private cosmetology school in Ventura, California. At the same time, I attended my local community college where I studied business and psychology. These two fields that have complemented my career in ways I never could have imagined. While in cosmetology school, I worked as a receptionist at a hair salon, which gave me an early glimpse into the fast-paced, client-centered world of beauty. After graduating, I assisted in a salon for 10 months before officially stepping onto the floor full-time. Those early years were filled with learning, growth, and long days behind the chair, but I fell in love with every moment.

By 2020, I was honored to be named one of the top three hairstylists in my town, holding that title for two years in a row. In 2022, I achieved something I had only dreamed of. I was voted the number one hairstylist in my town!  It was such an affirming moment that showed me the impact I was making.

In April 2023, I made a big leap and moved to Texas after my childhood best friend of 28 years settled in Austin. Not long after arriving, I met the love of my life, Travis, who has been endlessly supportive of my career and dreams. I began working at Culture ATX and Fox and Fawn Salon before taking another huge step in August 2024: opening my own private studio. Just a few months later, in December, Travis and I bought our first home together in Georgetown, TX.  It is a milestone that made Texas truly feel like home.

My studio, Tori’s Mane Studio, is more than just a salon. It’s a cozy, luxurious space curated with intention, designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. From the beginning, my dream has been to create a space where people feel cared for the moment they walk through the door. Every time I went to a salon growing up, I left feeling happier, more confident, and more in love with myself. That experience inspired me to become a hairstylis, because I want my clients to feel the same way.

My mission is simple but powerful: to make every person in my chair feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. To me, it’s not just about hair, it’s about creating a safe space for open communication, meaningful connection, or even just a quiet moment of peace.

I specialize in lived-in, low-maintenance color that grows out seamlessly, giving my clients the freedom to love their hair for months between visits. I also offer luxury extensions, including hidden beaded extensions, tape-ins, I-tips, and K-tips. Blondes and big transformations are especially close to my heart. I love seeing the joy and confidence light up in my clients’ faces after a major change.

What makes my studio unique is the one-on-one experience. I provide my clients with whatever they need that day.  If it’s a silent appointment, a chance to catch up on life, or even the flexibility to take work meetings with the lap desk I provide, we make it happen with their personalized options upon booking. Music is always playing (and always customizable), and I offer a variety of snacks and drinks to make each appointment feel special.

One of the things I value most is connection. I collaborate with local women-owned businesses, like Summerhouse Tans, and I take pride in creating a welcoming environment where my clients feel safe and supported. My clientele is wonderfully diverse, and I love that people from all walks of life can feel at home in my chair.

When I moved to Texas, I essentially had to start over from scratch. Building a clientele in a brand-new state was intimidating and overwhelming, but I knew the only way to succeed was to be vulnerable and put myself out there. I went from seeing just one or two clients a week to being fully booked out five weeks in advance. That growth didn’t come without stress, tears, and long hours, but it sure taught me resilience and reinforced my love for this work.

Looking to the future, I dream of opening my own salon one day.  A space for stylists to thrive and create, while upholding the personalized, client-first approach that sets me apart. This August marked one year since I opened my private studio here at Image Studios, and I’m so grateful for the community I’ve built.

If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be to always book a consultation before committing to a stylist. This time is so much more than “just a hair appointment.” It’s your moment to recharge and invest in yourself, so make sure you’re sitting in a chair that fills your cup.

At the end of the day, I love making people feel beautiful, comfortable, and truly seen. My clients are the reason I get to live this dream every day, and I’m endlessly grateful for each and every one of them.

Email- yourmanegaltori@gmail.com 

Instagram - @yourmanegaltori 

Website - www.yourmanegaltori.com 

Phone number - 805-797-7049