Amy Ross is the Operating Partner of Drybar Arizona who took the leap from the security of a corporate job to opening the first Drybar location in Arizona. Learn more about Amy Ross…
Hometown: Scottsdale, AZ
First job: Working in my Dads office. It taught me how to interact with people and be comfortable helping others. Being able to talk to strangers in a office or place of business can be overwhelming at times. I think learning at an early age to be confident to talk to others has helped me in all aspects of my life, not just my career.
Favorite AZ restaurant: There are so many to pick from! I would have to say sitting in the bar at Ruth’s Chris has to be a favorite date night. My husband and I love the food and it is a great neighborhood vibe were we can get a great steak and awesome bottle of wine. Oh and you can’t forget the cheesecake!
Person who has impacted your life the most: My son! I never knew the bond and love I would have. He motivates me everyday to work hard to show him success is possible but does not come easy. Living in a world of overconsumption, I think it is important for him to know you have to work hard.
Your biggest accomplishment in your eyes: Bringing Drybar to AZ. My entire career until Drybar I always worked for someone else. When I was faced with the decision of going back to my old job that had security (you know the drill, salary, benefits, company car) or take a risk and franchise Drybar in AZ I took a look in the mirror and said I am going to go for this! It was the best decision I ever made. I have created so many friendships with amazing people in the Valley, that was a side effect I did not expect. Most importantly, women feel awesome when they leave Drybar!
The biggest obstacle you have overcome: This may be silly but growing up in the 70’s and 80’s with naturally curly hair before there was anything like Drybar! All I wanted was to have straight hair like all my friends (and of course Farrah Fawcett).
Someone who inspires you: Estee Lauder. The story of how she set up her first table in NYC with a few creams to see if they would sell to the empire it grew into is amazing. She was truly dedicated to her dream and her family. Having worked for the Estee Lauder Companies as an executive for over a dozen years, I never got tired of hearing the stories of the early days when Estee Lauder was starting out on her journey.
Favorite quote: “Treat others as you would like to be treated!”
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: If you work hard and believe in yourself and your concept you can do anything! It takes lots of hard work. It does not come easy, but if you keep up the hard work you will succeed.
What makes someone fabulous: There are so many things that can make a person fabulous. I think kindness and being present are the biggest ones out there! In a world where everyone is so distracted with technology it is so nice to be present and kind when talking to someone.
