Some stories are too good not to share — and this one is served with both style and spirit. Glam, grit, & good drinks — Tyler Colton tells all!
In the latest episode of Coffee Talks with Ace, we sat down with Tyler to discuss his journey of being a celebrity hairstylist who left behind the fast-paced glam of Hollywood to opening one of the hottest bars in Reno, Nevada, The Emerson, a community-driven bar in the heart of Midtown.
Reinvention in Reno
For years, Tyler styled the stars, making his mark in the beauty and fashion industries. But when the bright lights of Hollywood no longer sparked joy, he made a bold move: trading red carpets for Reno lights. At The Emerson, Tyler has created more than just a cocktail bar — it’s a gathering place where inclusivity, creativity, and connection shine as brightly as the neon outside its doors.
Why It Matters
At Ace Studios, our mission with Coffee Talks with Ace is to highlight voices and businesses that make our community stronger — from women-led and POC-owned companies to LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs and veteran-owned businesses. Tyler’s journey is a perfect example of how passion and purpose can transform not only a career but also a community.
Watch the Full Episode
Tyler’s story is inspiring, funny, and full of those “wow” moments you won’t want to miss. Grab your coffee (or maybe a cocktail ) and join us for this conversation.
👉 The full episode is out now on our YouTube channel. Click on the photo to watch it now! 👇 Check it out, leave us a comment, and let us know what you think!
What do Sarah McLachlan, Demi Lovato, and a cat named Emerson have in common?
Tyler Colton.
This month on Coffee Talks with Ace, we sat down with the legendary celebrity hairstylist-turned-hospitality powerhouse. We got the tea (and maybe a cocktail or two) on his creative journey—from high fashion photoshoots to opening one of Midtown Reno’s most favorite mid-century modern cocktail lounges with a twist — The Emerson.
In his interview, we talk about his 30+ years of experience perfecting his craft as a celebrity hairstylist to stars like Demi Lovato, Avril Lavigne, and Sarah McLachlan. (No big deal, right?) He’s been featured in Vogue, Elle, Rolling Stone, and probably your dream board from 2006. His resume is star-studded, but it’s his commitment to community that really steals the spotlight.
One of the many celebs that Tyler has worked with is Avril Lavigne.
As the owner of The Emerson (Also, in case you’re wondering — yes, the name Emerson comes from the philosopher and his cat. Iconic!), a Midtown staple since 2019, and the soon-to-open The Selden (literally just across the street), an LGBTQ+ bar designed as a safe, welcoming space for all. Tyler is shaking up more than cocktails; he’s building culture.
The Emerson isn’t just a bar. In three words (none of which are “cocktail” or “bar”): it’s mid-century, modern, fresh. It’s where curated playlists meet community drag brunches. It’s where raising a glass often means raising funds. The Emerson has raised over $45,000 and counting for local causes. It’s a place for everyone — especially if you’ve ever felt uncomfortable walking into a sports bar (same, Tyler. Same).
The Emerson Bar in Midtown Reno.
What’s something people always get wrong about running a bar? “That it’s always a party,” he says. And while it might not always be a party, it’s definitely always a vibe.
Whether you’re here for the fashion, the cocktails, the drag brunches, or the heart, this episode is one you don’t want to miss.
Tyler is at the location of his new upcoming bar, The Seldon.
Don’t miss our next episode of Coffee Talks with Ace, where Tyler Colton shares his bold leap from styling A-listers to serving up soul and spirits at The Emerson. It’s a story of reinvention, community, and the magic that happens when passion meets purpose.
Catch Tyler’s interview on our Instagram @acestudiosnv and YouTube (AceStudiosNV) so you don’t miss the drop.
We are thrilled to announce that Ace Studios has once again proved its creative prowess by clinching not one, but two prestigious awards at AAF Reno‘s American Advertising Awards. Our captivating photography campaign, “Crowned Prince,” has garnered both a Gold ADDY and a Mosaic ADDY Award, marking a remarkable achievement in the realm of advertising creativity and diversity.
The “Crowned Prince” campaign encapsulated a vision that transcended conventional boundaries of masculinity. From composition to makeup and lighting, every element was thoughtfully curated to convey a narrative of regality, empowerment, and cultural richness.
Winning the Gold ADDY Award is a testament to the exceptional creativity and execution demonstrated by the entire team at Ace Studios. It signifies not only our commitment to excellence but also our ability to deliver innovative creations that resonates with audiences. This recognition reinforces our position as a leading force in the advertising industry, dedicated to pushing boundaries and surpassing expectations.
However, what truly sets this achievement apart is the receipt of the Mosaic ADDY Award. This accolade holds special significance as it celebrates diversity, inclusion, and multiculturalism in advertising. The Mosaic ADDY Award recognizes campaigns that authentically represent diverse perspectives, cultures, and communities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable advertising landscape.
At Ace Studios, diversity and representation are not merely checkboxes but integral components of our creative process. We believe in harnessing the power of storytelling to amplify voices, celebrate differences, and foster empathy. The “Crowned Prince” campaign exemplifies our unwavering commitment to showcasing the beauty and complexity of diverse experiences, resonating with audiences on a deeper level.
Receiving both the Gold ADDY and the Mosaic ADDY Award is a remarkable honor, underscoring our dedication to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the AAF Reno’s American Advertising Awards for this recognition and to our clients, collaborators, and supporters who continue to inspire and challenge us.
As we celebrate this milestone, we remain steadfast in our mission to push creative boundaries, champion diversity, and shape the future of advertising. The journey doesn’t end here—it’s a testament to what we can achieve when creativity knows no bounds.
Credits: Chris Thigpen, Photographer Alexandria Thomson, Special FX Artist
Joe Arrascada was running for University of Nevada Regent for Department 10. We were moved by his story and reasons for running, and agree to work with him and his campaign to create a series of videos that would run as advertisements on TV and Social Media.
Check it out, leave us a comment, and let us know what you think!
