The Authentic Collective was born from a shared belief: that confidence and connection are built through care—real care—for people, their stories, and their individuality.

Our journey together began over two decades ago, when Kim returned to Omaha from Austin, Texas and found herself working at the same salon where Chris was building her career. Life eventually took us down separate paths, but fate had other plans. Years later, during a deeply personal season, we crossed paths again in a supply house parking lot—just six months after Chris had lost her fiancé. That moment of reconnection wasn’t random. It was the start of something bigger.

In 2011, we opened our first salon together: Authentic You Salon & Studio. What followed were years of growth—personally and professionally. Through seasons of grief, celebration, reinvention, and expansion, our shared vision deepened: to create not just a beautiful space, but a community where artistry, healing, and genuine connection could thrive.

Today, The Authentic Collective stands as an extension of that vision. A place where independent stylists are supported, guests are seen, and authenticity isn’t just a name—it’s the heartbeat of everything we do..