Em Howard

Tell us about yourself!

With a flair for creativity and an unwavering commitment to her clients, Em brings an exceptional blend of passion and care to every appointment. She specializes in balayages, blonding, dimensional brunettes, layered haircuts, and special event styles tailored uniquely to each individual.

What’s your experience?: Before stepping behind the chair, I worked in anti-violence advocacy, a role that taught me how vital it is to hold space for others with care, empathy, and intention. Today, with 1.5 years experience, I bring that same trauma-informed approach to my work as a stylist.

What’s your specialty?: Creating looks that fit your lifestyle by blending out beautifully while still turning heads. Whether it's adding sparkle to your natural color, or making a plan for a color correction, I love a transformative look!

Why do you love what you do?: As a homebodied introvert, doing hair helps me break out of my shell and stay in touch with creativity and human connection. My favorite part is meeting new people every day and hearing their stories.

How do you express yourself? : Fashion, tattoos, art, good energy. Oh and of course my hair, which I change quite frequently :)

How do you get out of a creative rut?: Collaging. I love cutting up magazines or making vision boards on Pinterest.

Where do you go in the Twin Cities to be inspired?: Shopping! Thrift stores, antique shops, anything vintage. The Clapping Monkey, Queenie & Pearl, and Olio Vintage are places I visit often.

Most noteworthy era?: My bridal era<3 I recently got married and had so much fun planning my wedding and my bridal looks. It was so cool to see my vision boards come to life. I also thoroughly enjoyed all my pampering appointments (hair, nails, massage, facial, spray tans, etc.)

What do you do for self-care?: By heading to the pottery studio with no plan, just my wheel, my headphones, and a block of clay. It's my therapy!

Piece of advice for those struggling with self-confidence?:One of my go-to mantras: "the way I look is the least important thing about me." I'd rather be known by how I make people feel and the energy I share with the world. Once you find that strength in yourself instead of validation from others, trust me, you'll glow different!

Must-have product at Gem?: K18 Airwash dry shampoo