Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs: Diane Arndt

While Diane Arndt wasn’t the girl who did all of her friends’ hair, she loved the industry, and for as long as she can remember, she wanted to go to Cosmetology School. Now, as a woman who owns Reflections Salon at 21 1st St. NE, Arndt is proud that her business gives back to the city.

Reflections is a full-service hair and nail salon with many levels of talent and the ability to accommodate any client's needs.

“I hope that the young stylists that I have see this and will continue to do this in their lives,” she said. “I love helping young adults out. I love seeing them grow—they are full of fresh ideas.”

While women have always been seen as industry leaders, the options available now have grown drastically, she said.

“Six banks told us “NO,” and we had to get a private loan to open our business. Talk to women (and men) in your wheelhouse and find out how they did it and what worked and what didn’t work.”

“Mason City is a good city,” she said. “It has so much potential to be a GREAT city, and I feel we are well on our way. I am always very proud to say that I have owned a business in downtown Mason City for almost 34 years!”

ABOUT THIS SERIES: Here in Mason City, we are proud to celebrate the women at the heart of the Main Street Mason City district, whose businesses not only add vitality to our downtown but also serve as cornerstones for growth, creativity, and connection. Follow along as we spotlight our community's innovative, resilient, and inspiring women entrepreneurs.