In the world of commerce, small business owners often face an uphill battle to success. The beauty industry can be especially punishing, as hair and skincare businesses have about a 50/50 chance of failing in the first three years. 

Beating the Odds

Owner and CEO of Alkali, Amber Woodall, took this challenge head-on in 2010 and beat the odds. She has since grown her business from a three-chair hair salon to a beauty salon providing hair and skin services and employing more than 20 highly skilled professionals. 

Alkali isn’t just a successful local business. It’s an award winning salon that’s been recognized as a top salon by Salon Today four years in a row since 2022, after recently receiving the honor of being named one of the top 200 salons in North America once again in 2025.

“For many years, Alkali didn’t qualify for a Salon Today award simply because of sales considerations. There are benchmarks and qualifications to even being considered, a goal in and of itself. Not only has Alkali been successful, but we’ve experienced growth over 20% year over year. The first year we met the minimum qualifying metrics, we won. And we have won every year since. It’s an incredible accomplishment and I couldn’t be prouder of my team,” said Amber.  

The Bigger Picture

But, it wasn’t just luck and a dream that Amber grew her business into what it is today. She had a passion, analyzed the industry both nationally and locally, identified a gap that aligned with her passion and goals, and filled it. Since 2010, Amber has relentlessly and meticulously planned and executed her business strategies which center around providing superior beauty services, luxurious guest experiences and exceptional employee experiences. 

Amber’s planning and dedication to her business, artistry and company culture are what’s made Alkali a four-time award winning salon and a top luxury beauty provider in the Winston-Salem area. 

Her goal is for every client that walks through Alkali’s doors to not just be satisfied with the services and guest experiences, but to be in love with the results and to leave feeling special and cherished, as well. Amber applies that same philosophy to the Alkali workplace, as she recognizes that it takes an amazing team for a business to grow and be successful.

Alkali’s Biggest Expansion to Date

This year, Alkali is primed to hit another exciting milestone of growth – its biggest expansion yet. The salon is set to open its new spa space, right below its hair studio. With this expansion, Alkali will be providing all major beauty services in one convenient location – hair, skin care, nails, body treatments, hydrotherapy, massage therapy and medspa services. Alkali’s newest addition will also open up new career opportunities in the Piedmont Triad area, where service providers can feel valued, grow and be paid what they’re worth.

If you’re seeking a “home” for all your beauty needs, where you’ll receive exceptional care and services, look no further than Alkali. A beauty business where you’re more than just a number, and employees are more than just “workers.”