We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad's 30 Under 30 contest, sponsored by Denman Professional.
Here, you'll get to know Jake Doble (@jdoblehair), a 26-year-old independent stylist and content creator based out of Blank Canvas Salon in Londonderry, NH.
Q&A
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Jake Doble (JD): I have three Scottish Folds named Pluto, Chester and Kiki.
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
JD: I got my start in the industry at the beginning of the pandemic. After graduating college with a degree in Musical Theatre and Media Production, my field was entirely shut down, so I had to make a change. I began an apprenticeship at Blank Canvas Salon, where I worked as a receptionist during college and started a completely new journey.
BLP: Who is someone you consider a mentor/role model in the industry?
JD: The owner of Blank Canvas and my friend Stephanie Lawrence is one of my closest mentors. She is an incredible leader and role model for many in the industry, and I truly believe EVERYONE has something to learn from her.
BLP: What is your proudest achievement in the industry thus far?
JD: Honestly, being included on the "30 Under 30" list is one of my proudest achievements. I've put in so much work in the last five years, and receiving recognition like this tells me this is where I’m meant to be.
BLP: What is your favorite piece of advice you’ve been given by a fellow industry/hair pro?
JD: The best advice I’ve received from an industry pro is to be a hairstylist who embraces "community over competition." I truly believe I wouldn't be where I am today without the people and environment around me. Building a strong community is crucial for fulfillment, and the only competition I have is with myself.
BLP: What is your favorite hair trend currently?
JD: A hair trend I love is layered hair cuts — probably because I love blowouts, and no hair cut looks better with a blowout than '90s layers.
BLP: Who or what inspires your work?
JD: When it comes to hair, I draw inspiration from so many people that I could never name them all. However, I will say Drag Queens stand out to me — not only because of their fashion and artistry, but also because they are unapologetically authentic in who they are.
BLP: What changes would you like to see in the industry to better help hair pros grow and thrive?
JD: The changes I envision are already happening. I’d love for independent stylists to stop depending on big brands to lift them up or give them a platform. With social media, we now have the power to build our own platforms and attract others to join what we’ve created. Focus on building YOUR brand — it’s more valuable than you might think.
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
JD: Lately, I’ve been making an effort not to overthink the future, not just because of my anxiety, but because it distracts me from being present. Overall, I’d say my goal is to continue living authentically and creating art. I’m really happy with where it’s taken me so far.
