Today we’d like to introduce you to Meagan Mixon.
Hi Meagan, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hey I’m Meg! I’m 32, mom to a wild six-year-old boy, and I’ve also got a basset hound and two cats who basically run the house. Life at home is equal parts chaos and cuddles — which honestly fits perfectly with my personality.
I didn’t take the typical path to get here. Life threw me a few curveballs, and for a while, I had to completely start over. But I learned to use that as motivation instead of a setback. I didn’t go to cosmetology school right out of high school — I went in my thirties, as a single mom, trying to rebuild my life and create something that was truly mine.
Trade school was a game-changer for me. It gave me purpose, creativity, and a way to make people feel confident in their own skin. Balancing school, motherhood, and late nights wasn’t easy, but it made me stronger and more determined than ever.
Out of all that came Darkbar Salon, which I opened in 2024. It’s now located in Karns, Tennessee, and it’s very much a reflection of who I am — a little edgy, a little witchy, and built on passion and authenticity.
If there’s one thing I hope people take from my story, it’s that there’s no “right” time or “right” way to build the life you want. You just start where you are, stay true to yourself, and keep going — even when it’s hard.
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?
Definitely not a smooth road. I don’t think anything worth doing ever really is. There were times when I questioned everything — whether I was good enough, whether I could really balance being a mom, rebuilding my life, and chasing a new career all at once.
Going back to school in my thirties while raising a kid was no joke. There were nights I’d be laying in bed wide awake stressed, days I’d run on caffeine and sheer willpower, and moments where I wondered if I was crazy for even trying. Financially, things were tight. Emotionally, I was exhausted. But I kept reminding myself that I was doing it to build something better — not just for me, but for my son.
Even once I got into the industry, it wasn’t easy. Building a clientele, finding my confidence, and learning the business side of things took time. There were a lot of “fake it till you make it” moments. But every setback taught me something — how to hustle harder, set boundaries, and stay grounded in who I am.
Now looking back, I’m grateful for the struggle. It shaped me, kept me humble, and made the success that much sweeter.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a hairstylist and owner of Darkbar Salon in Karns, Tennessee. My work is all about blending creativity with authenticity — I love helping people look and feel like the most confident version of themselves. I specialize in dreadlocks, vivid colors, extensions, and razor cuts — anything that lets me create movement, texture, and a little bit of attitude.
What I’m most proud of isn’t just the transformations I create on the outside, but the way people leave my chair feeling lighter, more confident, and seen. I’ve built a space that feels different — edgy but comfortable, professional without being pretentious. Clients know they can come as they are, and we’ll create something that fits who they really are, not just what’s trendy.
What sets me apart is my story and my approach. I know what it feels like to start over, to doubt yourself, and to fight for something better — and I bring that same energy into my work. Every client gets my full attention and creative fire. I’m not just doing hair; I’m helping people find their spark again.
What does success mean to you?
For me, success isn’t about money or followers — it’s about freedom and fulfillment. It’s being able to build a life I’m proud of, one that gives me time with my son and space to do what I love every day.
Success is waking up excited to go to work, knowing I built this life on my own terms. It’s being able to support my little boy, take care of my clients, and still have a sense of balance (even if it’s a chaotic kind of balance).
Honestly, success to me is just proving to myself that I can — that I can create something out of nothing, that I can rise from the hard stuff, and that I can do it all while staying true to who I am.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://darkbarsalon.glossgenius.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meg_thelast.hairbender/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557546591774
