We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad's 25 Under 50K contest for 2025, sponsored by SalonCentric.
Here, you will get to know Sandie Tucker (@thehairphoenix), a hairstylist and owner The Hair Phoenix Salon in Port Orange, FL.
Q&A with Sandie
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Sandie Tucker (ST): I'm a published author of an autobiography and poetry.
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
ST: I was the first student to sign up to attend a Redken hair school in the Villages, FL.
BLP: What is your proudest accomplishment/achievement in the industry so far?
ST: I never stop educating and believe in helping others grow behind the hair. I brought that passion into owning my first hair salon and leading stylists to surpass their expectations of what is possible.
BLP: What is your current favorite hair trend?
ST: I love dimensional colors of all kinds — anything that creates something unique, especially when it it involves hair extensions.
BLP: What is a tip you have for your fellow beauty pros who are looking to grow their following on socials?
ST: Stay consistent, and never give up. It took a while for me to get traction on social media and now I have a brand that speaks for itself. Be present, and be involved with accounts that are in the niche you are. Don't be afraid to ask questions. You may be surprised on the relationships you can build.
BLP: What advice would you give to the younger version of yourself just starting out in the industry, looking back on your whole career?
ST: Don't settle for what others say you can do. Trust your heart and know you will become far more than you ever dreamed.
BLP: What is a tip/technique you've learned that's helped you be more efficient/successful in your services or business?
ST: Knowing the business side of the industry is just as important as being great at hair. No matter if you're commission or an LLC., you need to understand finances to know where and when you can grow.
BLP: Who is someone you consider a mentor/role model in the industry?
ST: I can't pick just one role model. I have built some amazing relationships and have looked up to so many that have helped me grow these last several years. Through in-person classes with Mick Lewis to online with Em Bailey and all of the hard working friends I have made, I find inspiration daily in all they do.
BLP: What is a practice/ritual you have to care for your mental health and set boundaries between your work and personal life?
ST: I made a choice to not work more than one Saturday and Monday a month in order to have plenty of time with my family and animals. I actually enjoy taking classes and having trips, so I plan at least every few months some kind of education or opportunity to grow.
BLP: What do you think needs to change in the industry to help beauty pros continue to grow and thrive?
ST: There is still a lot of negativity and bashing of other stylists and clients. I've seen a lot in my last 20 years of doing hair and want to continue to make the industry different. I believe in lifting one another up and even supporting other salons because it will always come back to us the good that we put out in the world. It is OK to help lift one another up and make friends with people that others may see as competition.
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
ST: My career goal would be to have a full salon of healthy and happy stylists that I can help advance in their careers, even if that means that someday they will advance beyond our salon. I want to be a staple in our community, making a difference each day.
