We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad’s 25 Under 50K competition, sponsored by Truss Professional.
Today, you will get to know Cassandra Quemeneur (@_hairbycassandra). She is a hairstylist and makeup artist at Plush Salon in Mokena, IL.
Q&A:
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Cassandra Quemeneur (CQ): I was a dance major in college before I went to cosmetology school!
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
CQ: I have always done my sisters’ and friends' hair and makeup for school dances and other events.
BLP: What is your proudest accomplishment?
CQ: Moving to booth renting! It was a scary leap, but I am so incredibly glad I did it!
BLP: What is your current favorite hairstyle trend?
CQ: My current favorite hairstyle trend is hands down shags! They are so customizable and look so great on everyone! I am so glad they are back in style!
BLP: What is a tip you have for your fellow stylists who are looking to grow their following on socials?
CQ: Post consistently and always be yourself!
BLP: What is a piece of advice about styling/working with hair that you have for your fellow stylists?
CQ: The best advice I have ever received was about hair cutting from one of my teachers in cosmetology school (Mrs. Sam)! She taught me that if a piece of hair looks like it needs to be cut, cut it! Trust yourself! Hair cutting is very technical but it is also so visual!
BLP: What do you love about your work?
CQ: My favorite part of what I do is not only making people feel beautiful on the outside but on the inside too!! Hairstyling is about so much more than looks! I have seen a simple haircut completely change how someone feels about themselves. It is incredible!
BLP: What inspires your work?
CQ: As I mentioned before, making people feel beautiful inside and out!
BLP: What motivates you about the industry?
CQ: Definitely that it is always changing. I love how fast pace it is and that there is always something new to learn and explore.
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
CQ: A career goal of mine would be to open a salon on Broadway in Nashville. That is a fun place for people to get styled before they go out!
You can learn more about each of our winners in our September/October 2023 digital magazine.
