I became a hairstylist by accident.
After graduating from university in 2008, I was just as clueless about where I wanted my life to go as I had been when I started. After landing a job as the receptionist at La Bella Hair Studio in Richmond, Virginia, I started to recognize and crave the bits of magic that I saw existing in the relationship between hairstylist and client: the intimate conversation; the quiet, relaxing moments of rest from normal life; the joy and sparkle on a client’s face when they left the salon. Once I completed an apprenticeship there, I began an adventure that would teach me not just about beauty but about people — and myself.
My life took me to Los Angeles in early 2016, where I spent time exploring other facets of the beauty industry. I worked for a cosmetics company and spent time doing hair & makeup for independent films before realizing that the salon environment was what I craved. In my neighborhood of North Hollywood, I spent my days working at The Local Salon — an incredible, community salon where we worked hard to be inclusive, accepting, and kind. After The Local was forced to close in early 2021, I made my way back to Richmond for a new start close to family and a home I love.
As a neurodivergent introvert with a history of social anxiety, I recognize that a hair appointment can be incredibly intimidating. I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard clients tell me that they’ve never had a stylist who really listened, or that they’ve felt pressured to sustain conversation when all they really wanted to do was relax. It’s important to me to create an environment in which you feel seen, accepted, and comfortable. I pride myself on creating a connection with my clients that lets them know our time together can be whatever they need it to be - whether that’s quiet and restorative, conversational, or even therapeutic.
Outside of work, I’m a bit of a nerd! I love video games, and in my free time, you’ll find me streaming on Twitch. I spend a lot of time there fostering a positive, supportive community, as well as playing PC/Nintendo games and cross stitching. I fully and unquestioningly categorize myself as a Cat Person, and my kitties Hazel and Frank are my constant companions & entertainment. Someday I would love to open a candy shop to fulfill all of my sweet tooth dreams!