
We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad’s 25 Under 50K competition, sponsored by Truss Professional.
Today, you will get to know Lauren “Ellie” Block (@xoxo_balayage). She is a balayage and lived in color specialist at Bex and Co Salon in Austin, TX.
Q&A:
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Ellie Block (EB): I met my husband when we were in 6th grade.
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
EB: I knew I wanted to be a hairstylist after the first time I got my hair highlighted. I started hair school a year after high school. I worked in a salon as a receptionist during the day and went to hair school at night.
BLP: What is your proudest accomplishment?
EB: My proudest accomplishment is our amazing son Jaxon. He’s our world!
BLP: What is your current favorite hairstyle trend?
EB: My favorite trend will always be lived in hair, especially on brunettes! I grew up always having brassy hair when I got highlights because my natural hair is so dark, so I love being able to give dark-haired girls beautiful and intentional colors.\
BLP: What is a tip you have for your fellow stylists who are looking to grow their following on socials?
EB: My biggest tip for anyone wanting to grow their Instagram is to never stop learning. Take as many classes you can from stylists that you look up to. Get out of your comfort zone, and try new things. We all mess up. It’s what we learn from our mistakes that matters.
BLP: What is a piece of advice about styling/working with hair that you have for your fellow stylists?
EB: Consultations are everything. If you and your client aren’t on the same page, then no one is going to be happy. Ask as many questions as you need, and remember to be patient with them because we do this everyday – They don’t.
BLP: What do you love about your work?
EB: I love the connections I get to make with my coworkers and clients. I’ve made lifelong friendships in this industry.
BLP: What inspires your work?
LB: My clients are what inspire my work. Seeing them love their hair and looking and feeling beautiful makes it all worth it.
BLP: What motivates you about the industry?
LB: Constantly improving my craft is what motivates me in this industry. I’m always striving to be better than I was yesterday.
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
LB: My career goal is to start educating.
You can learn more about each of our winners in our September/October 2023 digital magazine.