Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1280345
N ot a m e m b e r ? J o i n at a s so c iate d h a i rp rofe s sio n a ls .c o m 31 Niche 4: Gender-Neutral After meeting at the Aveda Institute in Denver in 2015, Dani Bee and Abrean Weidell stayed in contact and decided to go into business together. In February 2019, Weidell joined Bee as co-owner of Bee Sweet, a gender- neutral hair salon, after finding they had similar goals. "We both sought to offer a space founded on inclusivity, safety, and community," says Weidell. "Both Dani and I specialize in cutting hair and helping our hair honeys find and live in their natural texture." Some unique features of Bee Sweet's gender-neutral niche include: • Gender-free pricing. Weidell says, "Gender-free pricing leaves all assumptions aside, and [we can] meet our clients with authenticity and validation of personal expression. We don't sell haircuts; we sell experiences, and we price solely based on the time spent." • An inclusive vibe. "Our hair space is queer- and women-owned and operated," Weidell says. "Bee Sweet is our home away from home; and we love sharing it. We thrive on supporting our clients in their identities and leaving them feeling seen, affirmed, and confident. "A safe space shouldn't have to be a niche market; it's simply inclusive. By offering an inclusive environment, we've built a clientele of community. Our business has grown organically through forming intimate and genuine relationships within our community." • Safety. "I love the space we hold for our clients, as well as ourselves," says Weidell. "There's room for transformation; there's room for laughter and tears; there's room for exploration and affirmation. I feel seen and accepted by our community, and I love knowing that each person in Bee Sweet will be treated and held the same way." Strands For Trans Strands For Trans was started by a New York City barbershop to highlight the need for trans- friendly and safe environments in the beauty industry. "Traditionally, many hair businesses have been gendered; with salons catered to women and barbershops to men," says Weidell. "The Strands For Trans logo combines the traditional barber pole with the Trans flag." Posting the sticker lets everyone know your space is safe, inclusive, and welcoming. For more info, to request your free sticker, and to add your business to their map, visit strandsfortrans.com. Abrean Weidell (left) and Dani Bee are co- owners of Denver's Bee Sweet, a gender- neutral hair salon. "Gender-free pricing leaves all assumptions aside, and [we can] meet our clients with authenticity and validation of personal expression," Weidell says. "We don't sell haircuts; we sell experiences, and we price solely based on the time spent."