We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad's 30 Under 30 contest, sponsored by Denman Professional.
Here, you'll get to know Rachel Spagnola (@blondeuphoria_), a 27-year-old hairstylist based out of KC House of Beauty in Syracuse, NY.
Q&A:
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Rachel Spagnola (RS): During high school, I aspired to be a correctional officer after graduation. With the positive encouragement of my mother, who is also a hairstylist, I enrolled in cosmetology school and ended up loving it.
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
RS: I started my career in the hair industry by working on family and friends for a very discounted rate. This way, I was able to promote myself on social media.
BLP: Who is someone you consider a mentor/role model in the industry?
RS: Patricia Nikole (@paintedhair) is one of the first hairstylists I ever started following on Instagram, as one of my greatest influences in the industry. Her work fueled my love for hair painting. I continue to look up to her as an educator and admire the art she creates.
BLP: What is your proudest achievement in the industry thus far?
RS: My proudest achievement in this industry is becoming an independent hair artist. This has opened the door to countless opportunities.
BLP: What is your favorite piece of advice you’ve been given by a fellow industry/hair pro?
RS: My favorite piece of advice from a fellow stylist is to never stop educating yourself. I consistently attend classes and take on new ideas and techniques.
BLP: What is a hair tip/technique you’ve learned that’s helped you be more efficient/successful behind the chair?
RS: Placement is KEY. Having a few “go-to” placements has helped me maintain efficiency.
BLP: What is your favorite hair trend currently?
RS: Right now, my favorite hair trend is a bouncy blowout. This style has lots of layers, with a lived-in color that suits my clients' skin tone and facial features.
BLP: Who or what inspires your work?
RS: My clients are my greatest inspiration. Each one brings their own unique personality and style.
BLP: What changes would you like to see in the industry to better help hair pros grow and thrive?
RS: I’d like to see this industry grow with more apprenticeship opportunities. This is how I started out in the industry the first six months of my career. This was a key turning point in developing confidence necessary for the job.
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
RS: A major career goal I have is to become a mentor for younger stylists. Being a leader in the community for those getting their foot in the door would be a great achievement.
