Kristan Salyards
Duncansville,PA
Summary
Dynamic Interior Designer, Visual Designer, Merchandiser and Stylist with 15+ years of experience, complemented by a recent focus on caregiving and community involvement. Transitioning back into the workforce after dedicating time to support a child's therapy needs, with a strong commitment to balancing family responsibilities. Proven ability to organize successful fundraising initiatives, including a community basket raffle that raised over $10,000 for a classmate in need, demonstrating strong leadership and project management skills. Known for adaptability, creativity, and a results-oriented mindset, ready to leverage diverse talents to contribute meaningfully to organizational goals.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Handmade Crafts Artist
Self Employed
Duncansville, PA
01.2017 - 12.2025
- Developed unique handmade crafts by utilizing various materials and techniques to create one-of-a-kind products.
- Managed end-to-end production process, ensuring high-quality standards and timely delivery of all crafted items.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by creating high-quality, unique handmade crafts tailored to individual preferences.
- Managed custom order requests efficiently by maintaining open communication with clients throughout the design process, ensuring timely delivery of satisfactory final products.
- Participated in local craft fairs and events, effectively promoting handmade products to new audiences.
- Developed a loyal client base through exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail in each handmade piece.
VISUAL DESIGN AND MERCHANDISING
ASHLEY FURNITURE
Altoona
01.2010 - 01.2014
- Maintained over 20,000 square feet of furnishings between the Altoona and Johnstown Home stores
- Responsible for development of floor plans in conjunction with my team in New York and relayed information to Pennsylvania management
- Led team during set up of floor designs and additional décor to ensure time management, increase sales and brand awareness
- Organized, ordered and maintained hundreds of home décor, rugs, lamps and accessories
- Worked with my team to develop and open new Ashley Furniture stores across Ohio and New York
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
COSMETOLOGIST, SPA TECHNICIAN
COLOSSEUM
Altoona
06.2003 - 01.2008
- Executed a variety of advanced techniques in hairstyling, coloring, and treatments.
- Delivered personalized hair and skincare consultations to enhance client satisfaction.
- Enhanced salon workflows by introducing efficient scheduling practices for appointments.
- Fostered strong client relationships through effective communication and follow-up strategies.
- Booked appointments, answered phones, greeted clients, handled payments, and created client service tickets.
- Demonstrated high level of customer service to increase retention and satisfaction.
- Processed payments, entering sales in register for prompt customer service.
- Grew clientele by 50% within the first two years of employment
Education
Bachelor of Science - Interior Design
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Indiana, PA04.2010
Pennsylvania Cosmetology License - Cosmetology
Empire Beauty School
State College, PA04.2003
Skills
- Creative design and planning
- Office administration
- Strategic thinking
- Strong organization
- Customer service
- Phone etiquette
- Verbal and written communication
- Friendly communication
- Student supervision
- Active listening
- Maintaining confidentiality
Timeline
Handmade Crafts Artist
Self Employed
01.2017 - 12.2025
VISUAL DESIGN AND MERCHANDISING
ASHLEY FURNITURE
01.2010 - 01.2014
COSMETOLOGIST, SPA TECHNICIAN
COLOSSEUM
06.2003 - 01.2008
Bachelor of Science - Interior Design
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Cosmetology License - Cosmetology
Empire Beauty School