Ashley and Nathan met in 2004 while working at a chain salon, both in situations that didn’t suggest they would end up together. At the time, Ashley was a young 19-year-old who had just graduated from hair school, while Nathan, a bit older, was her good friend. Their relationship seemed unlikely since they were co-workers and not ready for romance. However, after spending about a year together as friends, they began to develop feelings for one another. Their romantic journey officially started on November 5, 2005, when Nathan took Ashley on their first date in downtown Kansas City. From that night forward, they have never spent a single night apart, with the exception of a surprise three-night golf trip Nathan took with friends. It’s not that they cannot be apart; they simply don’t want to be. Their relationship is unique in that they love and genuinely like each other.

 

Owning the salon has presented its challenges, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. Now, as a married couple of 17 years and together for 20 years, they reflect on how their experiences have shaped who they are. They’re currently enjoying a balanced life filled with rest, restoration, and appreciation for God's love. The past few years, particularly since COVID, have made salon ownership more difficult, yet it has motivated them to become better individuals both inside and outside the salon for their community. They enjoy traveling, leading a healthy lifestyle, and spending time in Florida, having dedicated countless hours and effort to build their success together. Their goal today is to treat their team like family and help their stylists and management build successful careers. They still enjoy taking on new clients and doing hair, which remains a fulfilling hobby and passion they share at Birdcage Salon. They express deep gratitude to everyone who has been part of their journey and witnessed their growth into this beautiful life together.