A Journey Through Four Decades in Cosmetology

As I reflect on my journey as a cosmetologist, I can only say that I am full of gratitude and excitement. With four decades of experience under my belt, my passion for creating beautiful hair has not only shaped my career but also enriched my life in countless ways. From the bustling backstage of fashion shows to the electrifying atmosphere of concerts, each experience has been a unique chapter in my love story with hair as well as skincare.

A Journey Through Four Decades in Cosmetology

The Early Days: Discovering My Passion

As a little girl, I remember my mother dressing me up in beautiful dresses with matching ruffled socks and a small purse, sometimes accompanied by a matching hat. As I grew up, I developed a sense of fashion in my early teens, when I began to appreciate various styles. With fashion, I was captivated by the transformative power of hairstyling—the way a simple cut or color could boost someone's confidence and alter their entire appearance. I quickly realized that my interest extended beyond the technical aspects of hairdressing; it was about understanding the art of beauty in conjunction with fashion and how it intertwines with personal expression. And that's how I envision my career to be all about.

Behind the Scenes: Fashion Shows and Concerts

One of the most exhilarating aspects of my career has been the opportunity to work behind the scenes at fashion shows and concerts. The energy in these environments is palpable, and I thrive on the adrenaline that comes with creating stunning looks in a fast-paced setting. 

Fashion shows are a whirlwind of creativity, where hair trends emerge and evolve in real time. Collaborating with talented designers and models, I've had the chance to experiment with avant-garde styles and classic elegance. Each show is a canvas, and hair is my medium. It's thrilling to see my creations walk the runway, each look telling a story that enhances the overall vision of the designer.

Concerts, on the other hand, offer their unique challenges and rewards. The spotlight shines brightly, and every detail matters. Crafting hairstyles that not only look good but also withstand the rigors of performance is no small feat. I take pride in creating looks that are not just beautiful but also functional, allowing artists to perform at their best while looking their most glamorous.

For both, it was a lot of work, you're under pressure, and you're on a tight timeline, but the experience is a lifelong memory.

The Evolution of Hair Trends

Over the years, I've witnessed the evolution of hair trends firsthand. From the bold, edgy styles of the '80s to the sleek, minimalist looks of today, each decade brings its vibe and inspiration. I've embraced these changes, continually educating myself on new techniques, products, and technologies that enhance my craft.

Moreover, I've learned the importance of personalization in hairstyling. Every client has a unique story, and my goal is to create a look that reflects their personality and lifestyle. Whether it's a bride on her special day or a performer preparing for a show, understanding their vision and translating it into a hairstyle is what makes my job fulfilling.

How Skincare Became Part of My Beauty Journey

In the early days of my cosmetology career, my focus was entirely on hair — the art of styling, shaping, and transforming it. But, like many of us, life gave me a gentle nudge in a new direction. I began to notice changes in my skin — subtle at first but enough to spark my curiosity.

What started as a personal interest quickly grew into a passion. I wanted to understand my skin better — why it reacted a certain way, how to nourish it, how to keep it glowing. That curiosity led me to delve deeply into skincare education and training and ultimately earn my license as a facial specialist.

As I learned, I realized skincare wasn't just about appearance — it was about self-care, confidence, and feeling radiant from the inside out. I began offering facials and skin treatments in my practice, integrating them seamlessly into cosmetology services.

Today, I love helping my clients discover the beauty of healthy skin, just as I found it for myself. For me, skincare is more than a service — it's a journey I took personally and now one I'm honored to share with others.

Taking a leap of Faith

With a heart full of passion and success comes burnout. After 15-plus years in the business, working six days a week, 10 to 12 hours a day, with a whole book full of appointments, you reach a point of burnout. I made the money, but what is money when your health, your well-being, and your life vanish away from what was once something you loved so much? Taking a break from the business was the best decision I made. Relocating to Florida and starting a whole new life and a new career in which I had no experience. I had no other choice but to put on the big girl pants, start from the bottom, and work my way up the ladder; I learned that's how you achieve success in anything you do. I learned everything there was to know about property management. I progressed from being a receptionist to a closing coordinator, then to leasing apartments, and ultimately to managing property; I thoroughly enjoyed and loved it. But my passion for cosmetology was always there in my heart. I continued to learn and stay up-to-date with the latest trends, educating myself and remaining involved in the beauty industry while I worked a full-time job. When I decided it was time to return to the beauty industry, I had a clear vision of how I wanted to work.

The Joy of Teaching and Mentoring

With 40 years of experience, I feel a responsibility to give back to the industry that has given me so much. Teaching and mentoring aspiring cosmetologists is one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. I love sharing my knowledge, skills, and passion with the next generation of hairstylists. Watching them grow and flourish is a testament to the continuous cycle of creativity and inspiration within our field.

Conclusion: A Lifelong Passion

As I look back on my journey, I am completely proud of the work I've done and the beautiful connections I've made along the way. My passion for creating beautiful hair and glowing skin has not only shaped my professional life but has also allowed me to forge lasting relationships and create unforgettable memories. 

The world of cosmetology is ever evolving, and I am excited for what the future holds. With each new trend, artist, and challenge, my love for this craft grows stronger. Here's to many more years of creating beauty, one strand at a time!