Story by Liesel Schmidt
For Salon deZEN owner Maria Elizabeth, being a stylist is more than just a way to help people look their best—it’s a way to unlock something inside them. “I love helping my clients connect to their inner authentic selves,” she says. “It’s amazing how a new hairstyle or color change can evoke a new sense of confidence within oneself.”
As someone who tirelessly chased her dreams and saw them through, Elizabeth is an inspiration to those around her. “I always knew that I wanted to be my own boss,” she says. “I wanted to create a business that reflected my creativity and my passion for inclusivity. I wanted to change the trajectory of my life and use my business platform to also help change the world for the better. I knew that no matter what, I would find a way to make my dream a reality.”
There’s clearly more to Elizabeth than business. She is deeply driven to support the needs of the local community. “Philanthropy is at the core of my being,” she says. “This year, the salon has been named a semi-finalist for the Kevin Murphy ICON award, which celebrates the everyday heroes that are making a difference in the salon industry and the world around us.”
“I developed a strong work ethic from working on the farm as a child and that determination has never left me. I look at every day as a chance to be better and do better. I never pass on an opportunity to grow personally and professionally. Watching my team grow and collaborate together excites me and assures me that the future is bright. Team ZEN works hard every day to make every client feel safe, valued and appreciated while also celebrating their individualism. Together, we have created a salon that is all-inclusive and all-accepting and that makes my soul feel happy.”
Heart health is also important to Elizabeth. “My mom has heart issues, so the GO RED movement holds strong meaning to me,” she says. “With heart disease being the #1 killer in women, the GO RED campaign is so vital and relevant to our world. I love that this campaign is a true catalyst for positive change which will help extend the lives of women globally. I hope all individuals around the world help us spread more awareness so that our loved ones can live longer lives.”
Join Join Maria Elizabeth in her mission to Go Red for Women by donating to the Go Red for Women campaign.
Join the movement. Raise Awareness. Go red.