One of the professional hair industry’s greatest strengths is the love and support that stylists show to one another every day. From gassing each other up on Instagram to encouraging coworkers in the salon, there is a solidarity among hairdressers that makes for a strong and creative community.
In honor of Hairstylist Appreciation Day, on April 30, 2021, we asked Beauty Launchpad Educators to share who in the pro beauty industry inspires them the most. From fellow stylists to mentors to popular Instagram accounts, these are the pros that keep our education team inspired—and that deserves some appreciation.
Bridget House on Ruby Devine
Ruby (@rubydevine) is the hardest working hairstylist I know. She’s been in the industry for a long time and has continued to keep up with the latest techniques—and create her own as well (the #underlights trend). She gives constant free education on her social media channels and is an early adopter of new social media platforms.
Meagan Gallman on Kelly McGowen
Kelly McGowen is one of the most inspiring hairstylists that I know, and I am so blessed to call her a friend. She has influenced me in so many ways. Her talent for hair is out of this world, especially when it comes to hair of natural texture. She is an incredible educator. Each time we work together, I learn something new. She teaches even when she thinks no one is watching. When you have someone that you can learn from without her even knowing, that is when you know you are in the presence of a great educator. She and I work so well together. We are very in sync and that is incredibly important in any type of work environment but especially in the hair industry. With so many different creative personalities in one space, not all personalities will work smoothly together; however, when stylists can support each other, celebrate each other's wins, and build a friendship, that’s inspiring. I'm so thankful to work with Kelly. She is one in a million.
Cameron Kepford on Lo Wheeler
Lo Wheeler (@lo_wheelerdavis): Mentor. Fairy beach mother. A true ray of sunshine.
I can’t express how much of an inspiration this gem is to me. I started following Lo five years ago when I first started beauty school. I was instantly attracted to her aesthetic and the vibe of her portfolio. Through the years she has not only become a stylist success coach extraordinaire, educator, luxury salon apparel designer and now queen of the Modern Mermaid. She has also become my friend. I am continuously amazed by the drive, passion and talent this beautiful soul brings to the table every day. I am forever a fan and forever FAM!
Ansley Clark on @paintedhair and @theplatinumguraffe
I am IN LOVE with everything @paintedhair. Her work is GORGEOUS. Her placement is so spot on and her formulas add that extra pop. I also love her education. She teaches you how to formulate and apply while sometimes never saying one word! When I am looking for placement on each client, she’s always in the back of my mind.
Also, @theplatinumguraffe is the blonding QUEEN! She knows her stuff. I have not had the honor to take a class but I hear that it’s ABOVE AND BEYOND! She’s so knowledgeable of her craft and is so enthusiastic about sharing it with other stylists. She’s raw. She’s real. She's relatable. And she’s a kick-ass hairdresser!
Danielle Green on Nina Kovner
Nina Kovner of Passionsquared (@passionsquared) inspires us every day! We start the day with a morning text and we can always count on her to post from her heart. She has been a rock for us during the pandemic especially the shutdown. She is the best mentor and coach and we are grateful for her soul!
Ashlie Marmo on @coloredbycaitlin
I am inspired daily by stylists all over the globe, but when it comes to someone who always stands out, it’s @coloredbycaitlin. she has been such a big influence in my career with lived in color. I’ve learned so much in her online classes and daily Instagram posts.
Casi Stauffer on Gina Bianca
Someone I am consistently inspired by in the industry is Gina Bianca (@iamginabianca). I know I am not alone in thinking she is a groundbreaking stylist and businesswoman. I first discovered her social media when her pricing breakdowns went viral. No one was really talking about pricing in such an open and honest way and it really struck home. She is honest, driven, and inspiring and I always look up to her unwavering passion for this industry.
Yara de la Torre on Dawn Bradley
One of the individuals that inspires me the most in the beauty industry is Dawn Bradley (@dawnbradleyhair). She is an educator, salon owner & hairstylist... most of all, she is an admirable coach for many stylists. Her approach is kind, relatable and to the point. I love how down-to-earth she is and how she has a way to make everyone feel welcomed and heard. Additionally, Dawn has a gift for giving insightful unbiased advice, her words are always exactly what I need to hear and following her guidance has led me to become a better stylist, educator and person as a whole.
Hana Norris on Siera Nieslanik
The person that inspires me is the beautiful Siera Nieslanik (@thebeautyspotby_siera). Not only is she an AMAZING STYLIST but my daughter, co-worker and best friend. She is extremely organized, efficient and always contributing to the success of our salon. Siera has a fun bubbly personality making everyone's Salon experience fantastic! While she is continually striving to elevate her skill set, she has the unique ability to maintain a healthy balance of personal and professional growth. Always appreciate the people that bring out the best in you!
Jess Rowlan on Michelle and Cera, owners of Alkali Beauty
I am most inspired by Michelle And Cera who are themselves behind the chair and the owners of Alkali Beauty! They are a small women-owned-and-operated company that is growing their brand in this industry with the help of other stylists they support. They are always showing so much love and support, and it is beyond genuine. In an industry where that is hard to come by, I am beyond blessed to have found them and can call them not only true friends but family! I truly feel they deserve everything they give to our industry and more! I am so proud to be their artistic director and by their side.
