Ashley Sexton & Deanna Murphy

Cofounders of Verde Salon

781-254-3661, verdesalon.org

Ashley Sexton and Deanna Murphy met at hairdressing school in 2003 and became "fast friends." Sexton earned an associate's degree in business and developed a specialty in makeup and wedding hair while Murphy became licensed in cosmetology, barbering and aesthetics. By 2010, the two friends had decided to go into business together, with the goal of elevating the beauty standard on the South Shore in a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere.

In 2012, the pair opened Verde Salon,  a zero-waste and certified sustainable business with a deep commitment to choosing products and practices that reduce the salon's carbon footprint.

"We bootstrapped our business from a very humble beginning," says Murphy. "We have always put our values first, being as sustainable as we can and providing an exceptional environment for our employees to thrive." The women have since relocated their business to a beautiful new space inside a commercial building they now own. Their team of more than 20 stylists provide a range of personally tailored hair and beauty services, including: customized cuts, coloring (foils and balayage), extensions, blowouts, holistic facials, and reiki treatments. 

While Sexton oversees staff development and marketing, Murphy focuses on property management and salon operations. "One of the great things about our partnership is that we both have very different strengths that complement each other really well," says Sexton. 

Empowered by their journey as small business owners, Sexton and Murphy have also become passionate about sharing their secrets to success with other salon owners. The duo now operate Chasing Bears Coaching, a program that provides an all-encompassing course detailing how to lead a team to success with special attention to salon culture and the guest experience. The women also offer a look behind the curtain into the world of salon management on their podcast "Salon Ownership Uncensored." "We are very passionate about entrepreneurship and helping salons and stylists achieve success in a meaningful and fun way," says Sexton. "We both hope to inspire others to follow their big dreams!"