Original Air Date: October 31, 2012

Despite national and international markets seeing an economic downturn over the past decade, Alaska's economy is still going strong. In Anchorage, many young Alaska entrepreneurs are taking advantage of the positive business climate.

Branden Elde-Steadman is the owner and operator of Be Salon Studio, a Paul Mitchell-focus salon in West Anchorage, located on Potter Drive near C Street.

Elde's been working on hair for nearly nine years, and opened the salon in February at the age of 27. Born and raised in Seward, Elde said she wanted to bring the same community spirit to her salon.

"I enjoy coming to work everyday. That's the same environment I wanted to bring for all of my stylists, as well as to Alaska, because I feel it really reflects in the work that they do, the guest experience, and a little bit of that hometown Alaskan feeling," said Elde.

Be Salon Studio is a fashion hair salon that covers classic looks to current trends and styles. In additiion, Elde's business offers on-site hair styling for weddings and fashion events.

Elde said her role as a business owner demands her to wear different hats on a daily basis. Although she's a stylist at heart, some days she's an accountant, some days she's working on the design of the salon, but as an employer she's always running the show.

"It's probably the most rewarding thing that I've ever done in my entire life. I think my age kind of helps that, where I have that drive behind me, where I really want and crave for more," said Elde.

Be Salon Studio sees about 25 people a day on average. Elde said the hardest step in building your business is always the first.

"Follow that dream, follow your heart because it does have the sweetest reward."