In Blue Earth Plaza, near the heart of downtown Manhattan, stands the Little Apple’s most dynamic hair salon. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, exceptional service, and outstanding results, Platinum & Company is a place where dreams are woven into each strand of hair. It's where every customer is made to feel as beautiful as the new hairstyle they leave with.
Amidst the flurry of daily activity within Platinum & Company, stands Taylor Newman. In her twenties, she dazzles with her signature eyeglasses and fashionable shoulder-length blonde hair, styled to perfection the day before. Her eyes are alight with kindness, and her laughter is like music in the air. Her beauty, both outward and within, is a beacon that captures hearts and leaves a lasting impression on all who encounter her.
Like a quarter of a million other Americans, Taylor has a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of her 21st chromosome, known as Down syndrome. Despite it, for the past ten years at the salon, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to focus on her strengths.
Born on February 20th to Hal and Lois Newman, Taylor was raised in Manhattan, and attended Rock Creek High School. One of the proudest moments of her life was when she was named the Mustangs’ homecoming queen. Following high school, she enrolled in a program at Kansas State where she could experience a different business each semester. The salon was one of the best experiences that she had, and when the program concluded in 2014, owner Lindsay Lowe loved her so much, she offered her a position afterwards. A decade later, she is still the Queen Bee of Platinum & Company.
The enduring bond between Taylor and Platinum & Company speaks volumes about Lindsay’s dedication and spirit. The daughter of Karen and the late Neal Medlin, Lindsay hails from Riley, and she began her salon journey as a receptionist at Crimpers Hair Studio in Aggieville. After the original owner, Cheryl Wilson, passed the torch, Lindsay, alongside her then-business partner April Jacobs, took over the business, relocating to 1101 Moro Street, and rebranding the establishment. Thus, in 2009, Platinum & Company emerged. Their growth necessitated a move to 227 Blue Earth Place in 2019, where they now thrive in a state-of-the-art, 2,000 square foot facility. The place has become such a powerhouse, they have been named as a Top 200 salon in America by Salon Today Magazine for the third straight year - a testament to Lindsay's vision and perseverance. Without a doubt, another big part of the success story has been the presence of Taylor.
Beyond the professional dynamic, the relationship between her and the entire staff of two dozen people at Platinum & Company has been built on mutual respect, understanding, and genuine care. They foster an inclusive environment where Taylor's abilities are celebrated, not overshadowed by her disability. They recognize her unwavering dedication, and they value her contributions to the salon. In turn, Taylor finds a sense of belonging and purpose under Lindsay’s supportive guidance. Together, they exemplify the beauty of compassion and inclusivity, enriching each other's lives through their special connection.
The love they have for Taylor is reflective of the people at Platinum & Company. For example, a couple of times each year, the staff donates their time and services and embraces the community by offering free haircuts through Neighbors In Need. Striving to uplift spirits and foster dignity, they partner with organizations such as Be Able and the Boys & Girls Club, extending their skilled hands to those facing hardship. This program embodies their commitment to kindness, one haircut at a time, fostering bonds and beautifying lives within the neighborhood. Taylor, without a doubt, was a big inspiration behind Neighbors In Need.
Working about 20 hours a week, Taylor always arrives at the salon with a sense of anticipation, and eager to embark on her duties. Finding solace and purpose in the simple tasks that fill her days, she dedicates herself unwaveringly to many tasks. She restocks the beverage dispenser, and ensures each guest is properly hydrated during their visit. She also does dishes in the breakroom and general cleaning throughout the salon, but her favorite tasks revolve around sweeping floors and tending to laundry. She takes so much pride in her work; she’s described to get a bit ‘spicy’ when someone else does her jobs when she’s gone.
With a broom in hand, she moves gracefully through the salon, sweeping away the remnants of haircuts and styling sessions. She takes pride in each sweep, ensuring that every corner gleams with cleanliness. She then tends to the laundry, carefully folding towels and aprons with precision. Her attention to detail is unmatched, and her colleagues often marvel at her ability to turn even the most mundane tasks into acts of beauty.
Despite her challenges, Taylor approaches her work with an enthusiasm that is infectious. She dances to the rhythm of her own heart, and she’s always graceful as she moves about the salon. Her presence brings a sense of joy and lightness to the space, and customers can’t help but be drawn to her magnetic energy.
It’s not just Taylor's work ethic that endears her to those around her – it’s her kind and gentle spirit. She has a way of making everyone feel welcome and valued, regardless of who they are or where they came from. Customers often linger a little longer in the salon, not just for a haircut, but for the opportunity to share a moment of laughter and connection with Taylor.
In the bustling salon, Taylor has found a sense of belonging that she had never known before. Here, amidst the whirlwind of hairstylists and clients, she is valued for who she is – a bright and shining soul whose presence illuminates the salon and touches the lives of all who cross her path.
“The thing I love the most about Taylor is you see abilities, and not disabilities,” says Lindsay. “I just think that's such a cool thing. I wish more business owners could see the opportunity that somebody like Taylor could bring to their team. You know, just because their abilities look different.” Lindsay further adds how important Taylor has been to Platinum & Company. “She's been an instrumental part of our business, mostly because of the happiness and joy she brings. It is really infectious.”
When asking Taylor her favorite thing about working at Platinum & Company, she was pretty quick to say, “I love doing towels, and getting drinks for the people. It gives them smiles, and they can be happy.” Tugging at the heart strings, she further adds, “My most favorite part is I get to be an adult.”
As the day ended, and the salon quieted down, Taylor would bid farewell to Lindsay and her colleagues with a wave and a smile, already looking forward to the next day's adventures. For in this little corner of the world, Taylor wasn't just a girl with Down syndrome sweeping floors and doing laundry – she was a beacon of light and love, reminding us all that true beauty lies in the kindness of one's heart.
Learn More: Platinum & Company offers haircuts & styling, hair color, retexturing, treatments, Brazilian blowouts, hair extensions, makeup, eyelash extensions, skin, waxing and bridal services. Platinumandcompany.com @platinumandcompany
“The thing I love the most about Taylor is you see abilities, and not disabilities." - Lindsay Lowe
"My most favorite part is I get to be an adult!" - Taylor Newman
