Redefining beauty and self-care in Vallejo

VALLEJO — Dani Ambrose always thought success in the beauty industry meant working in a big city. For years, she commuted from Vallejo to San Francisco, balancing long hours and even longer drives, all while raising her son. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, something shifted. Doing house calls for clients made her realize she was spending too much time on the road and not enough time at home. That’s when she started thinking, what if she brought something special to Vallejo instead?​

Ambrose looked around and saw a gap. There weren’t many upscale salons in town, and she knew Vallejo deserved more. So, she decided to take a chance and open her own space last year: Dash Hair Salon, a place that would offer not just haircuts but an experience.​

Ambrose didn’t want Dash Hair to be just another beauty spot; she wanted it to be a retreat. From the moment clients walk in, the space is designed to feel warm and inviting, with soft lighting, a relaxing atmosphere, and even a complimentary glass of wine or cider.​

“I wanted people to feel like they were stepping into something special, somewhere they could escape for a little while,” she said. “Luxury isn’t just about high prices. It’s about how you feel.”​

Delivering A Sharp Haircut

The name “Dash” holds a special significance. During the pandemic, as Ambrose adapted to the changing landscape, she sought a memorable name for her business. Her son coined “DASH,” an acronym for “Delivering A Sharp Haircut.” This encapsulated the essence of her services and became the foundation for the salon’s identity. Today, Dash Hair Salon embodies that mission, offering sharp styles and fostering a sense of community.​

And people have taken notice. From word of mouth to local business owners sending clients her way, Ambrose said the support from the Vallejo community has been profound.​

For Ambrose, opening Dash Hair Salon wasn’t just about starting a business; it was about giving back to the city she grew up in. Vallejo has always been home, and she’s seen firsthand how tight-knit and supportive the community is.​

“There’s something special about Vallejo,” she said. “People here want to see each other win. They want the city to thrive.”​

That’s why she created a free haircut program for kids in the Vallejo City Unified School District. Once a month, she provides haircuts to students from underprivileged families, working with local schools to make sure kids who need it most can get fresh cuts.​

“I wish I could offer it to all kids, but I focus on those who really need it. A haircut might seem small, but it can give a kid so much confidence,” she explained.​

Clients have stepped in to help, donating hair products and supplies so kids can leave with a little care package. It’s these moments, beyond the styling chairs, that remind Ambrose why she started this journey in the first place.​

Overcoming challenges as a Black woman entrepreneur

Starting a business is never easy, and as a Black woman entrepreneur, Ambrose had her own set of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles? Self-doubt.​

“There’s always that little voice asking, ‘Are people going to support me?’” she admitted. “And not just Black women or people of color, just everyone in general.”​

But she pushed through. She credits her parents, especially her dad, for teaching her how to run a business with integrity and resilience. She also leaned on the support of other small business owners in Vallejo, who welcomed her with open arms.​

“There are things we weren’t able to do 20 or 30 years ago as women, let alone as Black women. So, being here, doing this, means everything,” Ambrose said. “I want other young women, especially women of color, to see that it’s possible.”​

What’s next for Dash?

Dash Hair Salon is thriving, but Ambrose isn’t stopping there. She dreams of expanding in Vallejo, maybe opening a bigger space where men, women, and kids can all come for services in a welcoming, controlled environment.​

“I feel rooted here now. This is home,” she said. “In five years, I hope people see Dash Hair as a staple in Vallejo, a place where they know they’ll be taken care of.”​

And her message for anyone dreaming of starting their own business?​

“Go for it. It’s scary, but you never know until you try,” she said. “Find a mentor, ask for help, and stay focused. You got this.”​