Background: Hairstylist and owner of The Hair Gallery, Sperryville; long-time member of the Christmas in Little Washington organizing committee; board member of the Sperryville Community Alliance; member of the Sperryfest planning committee; member of Trinity Episcopal Church choir, past 4-H Club volunteer; certified riding instructor. Two grown children, both graduates of Rappahannock County High School, and four grandchildren. Lives with her husband, Bruce, and two Norwegian Fjord horses in Amissville.
The Spark: Both my parents were very active in church, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts and many other community activities. Their involvement and example seeded my interest in serving the community. As a youngster, I can remember doing things like visiting nursing homes and caroling during the holidays. Later, I taught kids riding and got involved in community events here. Throughout my life, I’ve always been active in some volunteer activity. It’s just my nature.
Proudest Achievement: Raising our kids and watching them buy their own homes. As they grew up, we experienced their achievements at school or work, but seeing them purchase a home was not just an amazing accomplishment for them, but very satisfying for us as parents. On the business side, it was starting up The Hair Gallery. This was my first business and I wasn’t sure how things would play out — I even rented my credit card machine for a while — but thanks to loyal customers and community support we made it and are now in our 18th year of business.
Biggest Challenge: Striking the balance between home, family, business and volunteer work. It’s not always easy to find the time to do everything. I often find myself working on projects late in the evenings. Some people need naps to reenergize. I thrive on being busy. A favorite way for me to rejuvenate is to clean out the stables, groom my horses or go for a trail ride. That’s my downtime.
Why It Matters: I’m a people person and love what I do. Coming up with a nice style for someone’s hair can make them feel better and raise their self-esteem. That’s rewarding, but it can be more than that. I remember during Covid, people felt so isolated. After the shutdown was partially lifted, we opened the salon on a limited basis. Instead of scheduling clients for the usual half hour session, I gave them an hour and they loved it. Sure, they were happy to get rid of their “Covid hair” but, just as important, was spending time out of the house and talking with someone. Whether it’s in the hair salon or events like Sperryfest, the Christmas parade, or the summer concerts at the River District, it makes me happy to see others happy and having a lot of fun.
Favorite Rappahannock Treasure: I grew up in the Northern Virginia suburbs but have always been a country girl at heart. Rappahannock is the perfect place for me. I love the peace and quiet, cozy villages like Sperryville and the open spaces to ride my horses. What more can you ask for?
— Bob Hurley for Foothills Forum
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