Today we’d like to introduce you to Bethany Arnsparger.
Hi Bethany , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I found my way into the salon and spa industry at just 16 years old—almost by accident. Without much family support, I didn’t have a clear plan or guidance for what came next. But something about this world pulled me in. I became completely fascinated by the people, the energy, and the environment. It felt like this beautiful blend of creativity, wellness, connection, and care. I was hooked from the start.
Over the years, I worked my way up, eventually overseeing two salon and spa locations with a team of over 60 employees by the age of 28. Along the way, I found myself deeply involved in organizing education—classes, trips, and experiences for our team. Sometimes I would sit quietly in those classes, just soaking it all in, even though I wasn’t a licensed professional yet. Something about it kept calling to me.
That pull led me to enroll in cosmetology school while still working full-time. It ended up being the missing piece I didn’t even know I needed. I had spent so much time on the business side, but stepping into the role of a provider gave me a whole new perspective. That’s where I truly felt the magic of this industry come alive.
After finishing cosmetology school, I went straight into barber school. I fell in love with learning all over again—and with finally being part of this side of the industry in a hands-on way.
In 2021, I took the biggest leap of my life and opened my own salon and spa. I wanted to create a space where creativity and inclusion could exist in harmony—where people felt seen, supported, and inspired. It was terrifying, but it was also the most meaningful step I’ve ever taken.
Not long after opening, I pursued my teaching license, knowing that education would always be at the heart of what I was building with Liz B Collective.
Today, I truly feel like I’ve created my dream life. I’m surrounded by passionate, caring people, and we have the privilege of serving a community that continues to support and uplift us. I spend part of my week behind the chair, and the rest running the business, mentoring new talent, and giving back through community involvement.
And somehow, it all started with a 16-year-old girl who simply wandered into something that felt right—and never looked back.
Now, I’m taking that passion for education one step further as I work on a business plan to open a cosmetology school in our community—creating even more opportunities for future artists to find their path, just like I did.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
To get something in life you’ve never had, you have to be willing to do something you’ve never done. The unknown will always bring challenges—and I’ve certainly faced my fair share. Honestly, I feel like I’ve failed more times than I’ve succeeded. But through it all, I’ve reminded myself that no matter how hard it gets, the goal never changes; sometimes, I just need to pivot.
I started as a young leader early in my career, and over the years, I’ve grown, matured, and learned that the work on myself is never truly done. I strive every day to show up fully—for my current team, for the students I hope to inspire, and for the clients who trust me with their care. Growth, for me, is a lifelong journey, and I embrace it with curiosity, courage, and a little bit of heart.
We’ve been impressed with Liz B Collective Salon & Spa, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Liz B Collective is where beauty meets intention. As a full-service salon and spa, we offer a wide range of beauty and wellness services—but what truly sets us apart isn’t just what we do, it’s how we do it. This industry is full of salons and spas, yet I like to believe that Liz B stands out in the little ways—the personal touches, the thoughtfulness, and the care our guests didn’t even know to expect. My journey in business has shown me that going back to the basics is often the most overlooked—and yet, intention and genuine connection go such a long way.
What I’m most proud of is our team. I hire humans, not machines. I’m not looking for perfection; I’m looking for people who are eager to grow, to learn, and to lift others along the way. The way our team respects and values one another shines through in everything we do, and it’s something every guest feels the moment they walk through our doors.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t really believe in good luck or bad luck—life is circumstance. I truly believe that life happens for you, not to you. I play the hand I’m dealt and do my best to make the most of it. I spent much of my twenties feeling resentful, thinking I was owed a different life. Over time, I’ve learned that it’s not about what we’re given, but how we choose to show up—how we treat others, and the mindset we set for ourselves. None of us are owed anything in this life. What we do have is the power of choice, and it’s those choices that shape the life we get to live.
Pricing:
- haircut – $60+
- Massage – $90+
- Facial -$100+
- Color – $95+
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lovelizb.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizbcollective?igsh=ZXZzZmY4ODlpdHF1
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Liz-B-Collective/100075533035306/
