Vibe Salon: Where Artistry Meets Hair Transformation

How Emily Fineran Built a Thriving Hair Business Through Authenticity and Expertise

Walking into Vibe Salon feels exactly like its name suggests—a unique atmosphere filled with plants, artwork made from leftover hair color, and an unmistakable creative energy. For owner Emily Fineran, this space across from the hospital in Harlan has become more than just a salon; it's where she practices her craft with the commitment of an artist and the wisdom of someone who understands both hair and people.

From City Life to Small-Town Success

Emily's journey to becoming one of Harlan's most sought-after stylists wasn't straightforward. After growing up in the area, she attended hair school in Omaha and spent a few years working in the city. Despite the opportunities of urban life, something was missing.

"I honestly just got kind of sick of the big city life, the anonymity," Emily explains. "I like going to the grocery store and seeing faces and people that I know. It doesn't bother me to wave at everybody and say hi."

After returning to Harlan, Emily faced personal challenges including addiction, a chapter of her life she speaks about openly. "I'm now eight years clean, four years sober," she shares with pride. During her recovery journey, she worked at a local salon before bartending at her family's businesses, The West Side and Gussied Up.

This bartending experience unexpectedly became a launching pad for her current success. "It helped my business become as big as it is because I was seeing everybody. People were always like, 'Oh, you do hair, don't you?'" This natural networking became the foundation for her thriving client base today.

In 2018, when a space previously used as a barbershop became available, Emily seized the opportunity. Initially sharing the location with another stylist, both businesses flourished so abundantly that they eventually needed separate spaces. Post-COVID, Emily's appointment book had filled to capacity, allowing her to focus exclusively on her true passion—creating amazing hair transformations.

A Comprehensive Approach to Hair Artistry

Vibe Salon offers a full range of hair services including men's, women's, and children's haircuts, along with specialized coloring services.

"I do blonding services, coloring services, hair extension services, vivids—which would be like fashion colors or vibrant neon rainbow colors," Emily explains with enthusiasm.

What sets her approach apart is the consultative element. Rather than simply executing what a client requests, Emily educates clients on what's realistically achievable, setting the stage for successful outcomes.

"I end up asking more questions than I think people are prepared for," she says. "Under-promise, over-deliver is a motto I like to live by." This honesty extends to product recommendations, where she aims to educate clients on ingredients to avoid, whether they're purchasing high-end products or more affordable options—always ensuring they make the best choice for their hair's health.

Among the various services she offers, hair coloring is where Emily truly "geeks out." She explains the complexity: "You have the canvas you're working on, which would be the person's hair, and then you have the end result of what they're looking for." Navigating between these points involves considering the hair's history, budget constraints, and the hair's integrity—a challenge she embraces with creative excitement.

The Small-Town Impact on an Artisan's Approach

Operating in a small town has profoundly shaped Emily's business philosophy in the most rewarding ways. With clients ranging from toddlers to people in their 90s, she's developed a versatility that might not have been possible in a more specialized urban salon.

"Being in this small town and running my business here has softened me," Emily reflects. "My business has contorted me to the needs of individuals that I didn't think I related to at all," creating connections she deeply values.

This diversity of clientele has created what Emily calls "a big old melting pot" that "keeps me diverse" and has taught her valuable life lessons about not making assumptions about people—enriching both her professional skills and personal growth.

The community has also embraced her journey with open arms. "Harlan's really good at supporting those who have roots here or are able to properly embed themselves in the community," she says. "Even regardless of my past, people didn't really shy away from the fact that I was a bit of a heathen at one point in time," a testament to the supportive spirit of small-town living.

This support has translated into a thriving business where Emily is consistently booked eight weeks to three months out. "I never figured that my business would be as busy as it is," she admits with gratitude. "It's absolutely insane, but I'm very grateful to be able to provide the living for my family and be able to sustain life here in our small little town."

Creating a Space for Transformation

What makes Emily's approach special is her dedication to creating genuine transformations that last. She takes the time needed to achieve beautiful results, an approach her clients have come to appreciate.

"Big changes take a lot of time, and having a hair appointment that is anywhere from three to five hours is a new normal that I don't think people are used to," she explains. "Good hair takes time," but the stunning results make every minute worthwhile.

For those willing to wait, the journey becomes part of the experience. Emily has built a loyal clientele who appreciate her artistic approach and willingness to be honest about what's achievable, building trust that keeps them coming back. For her, the most rewarding aspect is the creative process itself.

"Getting to work with my hands... it's like one of those things that allows me to not really think about anything else," she says. "I have nothing else going on in my head when I'm at work. So it's a nice, healthy escape," bringing her a profound sense of fulfillment.

A Creative Haven in the Heart of Harlan

In a world of quick fixes and instant gratification, Vibe Salon stands as a testament to the value of patience, craftsmanship, and authentic connection. Emily has created more than just a place to get your hair done—she's built a creative haven where transformation happens on multiple levels.

Her journey from struggling with addiction to running one of the most sought-after salons in town mirrors the transformations she creates for her clients: sometimes challenging, but always resulting in something beautiful. With her commitment to honesty, creativity, and personal connection, Emily embodies the very best of small-town entrepreneurship—a business owner who truly cares about her community and her craft.

As Vibe Salon continues to thrive, Emily remains focused on what matters most: creating art with her hands, building genuine relationships with her clients, and maintaining the authentic approach that has earned her such a devoted following in Harlan. For anyone looking for a truly personal hair experience, the wait for an appointment at Vibe Salon proves to be well worth it.

To experience Vibe Salon for yourself, visit Emily at 1118 Morningview Dr, Harlan, Iowa. New clients typically need to book 2-3 months in advance by texting 402-990-6524 or using the online booking system at https://vibe-salon-101707.square.site/. Browse Emily's work on Instagram or Facebook to see if her style is right for you.