Meet Zeb!

 

With nearly two decades in beauty industry, Zeb Ratcliff has built his career – and his salon – around one simple philosophy: passion first, ego never. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Zeb began cutting hair as a teenager to help his mom save money. What started as a necessity quickly became a lifelong calling. After attending barber school and later graduating from beauty school, he found his stride working in an upscale Houston salon where an incredible mentor helped shape his technical skill, creative direction, and business mindset. It was there he learned how to deliver luxury, build a team, and lead with purpose.

​

Now the owner and creative director of CRAFT Salon, located in Omaha's historic Dundee neighborhood, Zeb has become a driving force in the city's hair scene – blending artistry, education, and culture under one sleek roof. His vision for CRAFT was born from a desire to fill a gap in salon education. That vision led to the creation of the CRAFT Advanced Associate Program – an immersive training system designed to build skill, confidence, and a sustainable career. His approach blends advanced technique with genuine mentorship, creating a culture that's equal parts education, collaboration, and good vibes.

​

As leader, Zeb believes in creating a space where stylists can grow both creatively and personally. His approach to management is grounded in compassion, transparency, and empowerment – offering guidance while allowing room for individuality, mistakes, and growth. He leads with love, provides his team with the resources they need to succeed, and encourages open communications and collaboration. 

​

Behind the chair, Zeb is best known for his effortlessly lived-in blondes, precision-based haircutting, and luxury brunettes – tailored looks that feel modern, elevated, and designed for real life. Beyond his technical expertise, his gift lies in connection. He believes hairdressing is about more than beauty; it's about being a "Day Maker." Whether it's giving a guest the confidence to chase a dream or helping them feel truly seen, Zeb knows the power of a great haircut – and even greater experience. As he puts it, "We have the ability to change someone's perspective with one experience."

​

Inside CRAFT, you'll find a space that's fashion-forward, inclusive, and full of energy – where stylists collaborate, guests are celebrated, and creativity flows as freely as the conversation. It's where individuality meets teamwork and luxury feels approachable.

​

When he's not behind the chair, Zeb travels the country as an educator, teaching hairdressers, barbers, and students through his philosophy of creative simplicity – his signature perspective to making advanced techniques approachable and adaptable. He meets stylists where they are, empowering them to grow through small, meaningful shifts. His goal isn't to impress – it's to inspire. To remind artists that success doesn't come from perfection, but from passion, persistence, and purpose.

​

Looking ahead, Zeb envisions multiple CRAFT Salon locations across the country – all rooted in shared equity, collaboration, and culture. His broader mission? To make high-quality education accessible and practical for stylists everywhere, building a legacy of mentorship that ripples through the industry for years to come.

​

For Zeb, beauty isn't just a career – it's a calling, a community, and a craft.