Katie Walter always knew owning her own business would be something she would enjoy. She never knew what would bring her this dream; yet, she has found something she loves to do. Color Me Crazy was, therefore, founded and has thrived in Arcola through Walter's hard work.
In the fall of 2006 Walter attended hair school, graduating in 2007. Having grown up in Arcola she found herself coming back to the area. For two years she worked in Carlyle at New Dimension Hair Studio. Walter then decided to open a studio in Arcola, renting a space for the first couple of years.
Walter's goal was to see how business would do before buying or building her own building. During this time she worked out of a rented building and began to garner a group of dedicated clients.
"The idea was to run the business for two years and see if I could make a go of it. Then I would start making plans on a place of my own," explained Walter.
During this time Carroll Brownridge was welcomed to Color Me Crazy as a tattoo artist. Brownridge works through his company Farmhand Tattoo, but does so out of Color Me Crazy.
Walter's sister, Shelbey, does a beautiful job with nails at the establishment. There is also a tanning bed available for people to purchase minutes on. Finally when it comes to hair Walter is one of the hairdressers. She is joined by another hairdresser, Kaelynn Thomas, who is also quite talented.
Walter recently moved her business to a new building on July 17 of this year. The community has supported the local businesswoman and through this she has decided to stay in the area. Walter found her business was and continues to succeed because of the fantastic clientele she has found.
The new building was completely designed by Walter who was very excited for this opportunity.
"I designed it all. I didn't want to set my expectations too high though because with reno's and projects something always comes up, but it turned out how I envisioned it," Walter said.
A large part of the building construction was headed by Walter's father, Warren. Helping with absolutely every aspect of the building, except plumbing and the electrical work, Warren worked diligently to assist his daughter in establishing her own place of business.
This November will mark Walter's third year owning Color Me Crazy and in celebration will be hosting an official Grand Opening of the new building on Nov. 14.
"Between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. people can come in and check out the place. They can have tea and dainties. Then for those who aren't able to come during the day between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. we'll have the same thing again. There will be deals on products as well as local people with tables set up selling jewelry and candles. It will really be a customer appreciation day, grand opening, thank you," Walter exclaimed.
Without the constant support of the community Walter's dream of owning a successful business couldn't have been realized and she is very much appreciative of everyone who has supported her.
"Thank you to everyone who has put their time in to make the place as beautiful as it is. Thank you to all of the clients for their support the last five years. I hope to serve Arcola and the surrounding community for many years to come," Walter stated.
The young businesswoman is excited to remain in Arcola and is happy to offer unique services, such as Farmhand Tattoo to the area.
She hopes to have many join her on Nov. 14 to celebrate the third anniversary of her business as she gives back to her supportive community through holding her official Grand Opening.
