lizzie

Founder & Stylist

Hi, I’m Lizzie. I’m the founder of Root & Shadow, but most of my work still happens where it always has, behind the chair.

I’ve been doing hair for over ten years, and I started Root & Shadow after realizing I wanted to build a salon that felt more grounded, more collaborative, and more connected to the people sitting in the chair. It started in a tiny basement studio I lovingly referred to as the “closet under the stairs,” and has grown into the community-centered salon it is today.

I’m known for vivid color, blonding, major transformations, and helping clients navigate complicated color histories. I love thick hair, unconventional hair, and projects that require a little problem solving. I also really love everyday hair. A great haircut, a simple refresh, maintenance that makes your life easier, or hair that feels good without needing to be the most interesting thing about you.

In my chair, you can expect honest consultations, realistic expectations, and reliably great hair. We’ll talk through what your hair has been through, what you actually want to maintain, and what makes sense for your day-to-day life. I care about the finished result, but I also care about whether it works for you after you leave the salon.

As a queer stylist and salon owner, I care deeply about creating a space where people can show up as themselves. Root & Shadow exists because I believe salons can be places of real community, somewhere you can have a good conversation, be taken seriously, laugh a little, and leave feeling more supported and more like yourself.

I’m also a lifelong learner. I take continuing education seriously, attend multiple classes a year, and have spent time educating and mentoring other stylists. I care a lot about being good at what I do, staying curious, and continuing to grow in my craft.

Outside of the salon, a lot of my life centers around community, art, and the world we’re trying to build together. I sing with the Denver Feminist Chorus, am a dedicated gardener, practice yoga, read constantly, and usually have some kind of craft project going. Whether you want to talk political theory, trash TV, your garden, your dog, or absolutely nothing at all, I hope Root & Shadow feels like a place where you can settle in and be yourself.