We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad's 30 Under 30 contest, sponsored by Denman Professional.
Here, you will get to know Ariana Greene (@arianascanvas), a 25-year-old beautypreneur and R&D hair evaluator based in the NYC and DMV area.
Q&A:
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Ariana Greene (AG): A fun fact about me is that I love to cook! I enjoy a good day of experimenting in the kitchen. I’m also a big fan of arts and crafts — I love getting creative with my hands.
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
AG: I got my start in the industry as a child, playing with a toy hair salon set in my parents' basement. My true journey began in college at Hampton University. I started doing my own hair and eventually offered services to my peers on campus, ensuring it was affordable while maintaining quality. After graduating in 2020, I enrolled in cosmetology school and was fortunate enough to be part of the Tresemmé Future Stylists Fund program from 2020 to 2021. Through this program, I gained invaluable experience, learning how Tresemmé markets its products across retail, television and film. I even had the opportunity to work during New York Fashion Week, assisting on the runway.
BLP: Who is someone you consider a mentor/role model in the industry?
AG: I’ve had many mentors throughout different phases of my life. During Cosmetology School: Miss Ashley, Miss Charlene, Miss V, Miss Nisa, Miss Dee and Miss Tracey were my prime motivators. In the Salon World: I’ve been mentored by Tonya Gordon, Paris Kennedy and Yene Damtew. In the Fashion World: I’m inspired by and grateful to Carla Joi Farmer, Andrita Renee, Gabbi Jeanne, Davey Matthew, Lacy Redway and Ursula Stephens. I’m truly thankful for the many mentors who have guided me along my journey.
BLP: What is your proudest achievement in the industry thus far?
AG: My proudest achievement in the beauty industry is my ability to navigate and thrive across various sectors. It was always a goal of mine to explore different aspects of the hair industry — from working at Hair Cuttery and assisting on Broadway to contributing to TV/film sets, participating in Fashion Week and working in product research and development. Being able to stay true to myself and persevere while successfully achieving these goals is something I’m incredibly proud of.
BLP: What is your favorite piece of advice you’ve been given by a fellow industry/hair pro?
AG: The best advice I’ve received is to remember your 'why' and work horizontally within your community. Often, we are inspired by big names in the industry and aim to work vertically, but real growth can come from collaborating with peers, fellow makeup artists, stylists and hairstylists in your circle. Building those genuine connections can elevate your career in ways you never expect. Also, this industry is all about people. Understanding and having a passion for people makes a huge difference. I’m grateful for the strong connections I’ve built with my clients — many of whom stay in touch even when I move away.
BLP: What is a hair tip/technique you’ve learned that’s helped you be more efficient/successful behind the chair?
AG: One of the best tips I’ve learned is to master product knowledge and have a solid routine or breakdown of the style you’re about to perform. A thorough consultation is key — asking about the client’s lifestyle helps me personalize their service to fit their goals. For example, understanding if they’re very active or how often they shampoo their hair can help tailor the service to their needs. Another game-changer has been setting up for the day beforehand and keeping track of expenses weekly. Staying on top of finances is crucial, especially when it comes to tax season.
BLP: What is your favorite hair trend currently?
AG: Some of my favorite 2025 hair trends include:
- Chic bobs
- Laminated ponytails and buns
- The structured wet luxe look
- Triple-barrel waves and bombshell bangs
- Hair accessories like vibrant jewels
- Bohemian and human hair braids, which are perfect for spring
BLP: Who or what inspires your work?
AG: Art and history are my biggest inspirations. As a child, I loved sketching designs, and I’ve carried that creative spirit into my work. I’m also inspired by vintage television and movies — I used to watch old '70s films with my grandmother and wondered "Who was the hairstylist on this project? Is this a real career?" Scrolling through Pinterest and flipping through old magazines also fuels my creativity and inspires my work.
BLP: What changes would you like to see in the industry to better help hair pros grow and thrive?
AG: I would love to see more mentorship programs in cosmetology schools and a clearer pipeline of career options for aspiring cosmetologists. During school, I went through a lot of trial and error. I would’ve appreciated more guidance on taxes, managing income, budgeting and understanding seasonal economic trends. I also wish there had been more education around building a clientele and leveraging social media to grow a business. Thankfully, I’ve had great mentors to fill those gaps, but I’d love to be part of a program or ambassador initiative where I can return to cosmetology schools and share this knowledge with future stylists.
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
AG: A major career goal of mine is to continue exploring all aspects of the beauty industry. I’d love to:
- Work in television and film
- Own a salon
- Launch a line of art-based hair products
- Host my own hair show to celebrate industry peers and cultivate a strong sense of community
