By Patricia Schallert –
After four decades as a beloved hairdresser in Montrose, Sally Williams traded her scissors for seashells, retiring in July 2024 to pursue her lifelong dream of coastal living. A devoted mother, her heart swells with love for her daughter and two energetic grandsons. But she had always envisioned a sanctuary by the beach and when a friend mentioned the hidden gem of Ventura, it felt like destiny. Together with her husband, Steve, they seized the opportunity to purchase a charming Ventura home, turning their weekends into blissful getaways. They escape the hustle of Burbank, enjoying the soothing sound of waves and the gentle ocean breeze, finding tranquility and precious family moments in Ventura.
Sally wasn’t your typical “retired” homebuyer, however. She had a clear vision of her ideal sanctuary, and it wasn’t just about finding a house; it was about creating a haven where she could feel at home, focusing on her “huggable hens” and sharing music with Steve. She desired a cozy fireplace to curl up with a good book, a lovely patio for morning coffee, and most importantly, a view that would light up her soul each evening, the breathtaking sunsets of Ventura, painted in shades of orange, pink, and gold.
After an extensive search, Sally and Steve found their slice of paradise in a welcoming senior community just a stone’s throw from Ventura Harbor. The moment they entered their new home, they knew it was “the one.” The joy of discovery was only enhanced by friendly neighbors who quickly became like family, sharing laughter and stories beneath the radiant Californian sun.
Every sunset is now a daily celebration, a colorful canvas reminding them that sometimes, patience and a clear vision can lead to magical places.
Steve, a musician at heart, played in a band for years, and when they first met, Sally joined him on stage, their voices creating a harmonious blend. However, when their daughter was born, she made the bittersweet decision to step back from singing and focus on motherhood.
Years later, with the family permanently settled in Ventura Harbor, that musical spark reignited. Sally returned to the microphone, eager to explore the melodies of Americana music. While securing gigs has become more challenging, their passion for music remains undiminished. Together, they now pour their hearts into every performance, creating an atmosphere filled with nostalgia and joy, and sharing their music and stories with the community they cherish. Each note they play celebrates family, resilience, and the timeless bond of shared dreams.
Although Ventura is just a short distance from Montrose, Sally also missed the vibrant interactions with her cherished clients and the laughter, stories, and bonds she had forged over the years. This void lingered in her heart, even amidst the beauty of her new surroundings. For several years, Sally commuted from her sister’s home to work in Montrose, and as days turned into months, the drive down to her sister’s house became a weary routine. Yet, amidst her new life, she reminisced about a particular client who left an indelible mark on her journey, a woman who knitted and crocheted during appointments and who was on a mission to create adorable emotional support chickens. Inspired by her client’s passion, Sally felt a new spark igniting within her, urging her to create as well.
Inspired, Sally embraced her love for fabrics, imagining heartfelt creations that could bring joy to others. In her cozy new home, she found renewed purpose— not just as a retired hairdresser, but as a creator weaving together community, creativity, and compassion. Sally had been sewing for as long as she could remember, tackling a range of projects. One day, while browsing at Goodwill, inspiration struck: she could create a pattern for whimsical “hens” using up cycled sweaters. Every hen she makes is now crafted from up-cycled fabrics, celebrating sustainability and creativity, with each being one of a kind.
Sally explains, “While animals can offer significant emotional support, not everyone can have a real feathered friend. That’s why I started crafting ‘huggable hens’—cuddly companions for joy and comfort.”
She has no intention of returning to hairdressing; instead, her focus is on music and her “huggable hens.” Her advice for those considering retirement is, “Stay focused, think it through, and make sure it’s the right time before moving forward with any new plans.”
She believes it’s crucial to have fulfilling pursuits to fill the void that one’s work can sometimes leave behind.
Sally’s passion for music shines in her connection with Steve. When they sing together, it’s not merely a performance; it’s a celebration of their bond. Their Americana repertoire, rich with diverse styles, resonates with listeners and has fostered lasting friendships along the way. Together, they create an inviting atmosphere, performing relatable tunes filled with heartfelt melodies.
Sally and Steve often grace the stage at Winchesters in Ventura and Onyx Bistro in Camarillo, sharing their love for music and the joy it brings to their lives and the community.
To learn more about Sally Williams’ Huggable Hens, email rocodesigns@gmail.com
using upcycled materials.
