We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad's 30 Under 30 contest, sponsored by Denman Professional.
Here, you'll get to know Frank Williams (@f.dub), a 28-year-old barber and men's stylist based out of Poster Child Salon + Goods in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.
Q&A
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Frank Williams (FW): Before becoming a full-time barber, I served in the U.S. Navy for 8 years. The discipline, precision and adaptability I gained during my service now shape how I approach my craft behind the chair.
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
FW: My journey started in high school, cutting my brother's hair in our backyard. What began as a simple way to help out quickly turned into a passion. After joining the U.S. Navy, I continued honing my skills, cutting hair whenever I got the chance. For eight years, that passion stuck with me, growing stronger with every cut. In 2022, I left a successful career in the Navy to pursue a full-time career in the hair industry — and I haven’t looked back since.
BLP: Who is someone you consider a mentor/role model in the industry?
FW: My biggest role model in this industry is my wife, Lauren (@laurenlovesmyhair). Her passion, dedication and relentless drive for her craft inspire me every day. Watching her push boundaries and elevate her work has motivated me to do the same. She’s not just my biggest supporter — she’s also my greatest inspiration.
BLP: What is your proudest achievement in the industry thus far?
FW: My proudest achievement so far is being able to work alongside my wife, while doing what we both love. Sharing a passion for this industry and pushing each other to grow creatively and professionally makes every other milestone even more rewarding.
BLP: What is your favorite piece of advice you’ve been given by a fellow industry/hair pro?
FW: “Evolve, or get left behind.” It’s a simple sentiment, but it holds lots of power. In an industry that is ever changing and growing, complacency kills and evolution thrives.
BLP: What is a hair tip/technique you’ve learned that’s helped you be more efficient/successful behind the chair?
FW: One of the biggest lessons I've learned is to work with the hair, not against it. Understanding natural growth patterns, texture and movement allows for a more seamless and efficient haircut. Rather than forcing the hair into a shape it doesn’t want to take, using its natural flow will create looks that are flattering and effortless, for both you and the client.
BLP: What is your favorite hair trend currently?
FW: I’m loving lived-in men’s styles. The longer length hair, less clipper work and less ‘just got a haircut’ look. I am also loving the ’less is more’ trend with beards. Let's let the mustache be the statement piece!
BLP: Who or what inspires your work?
FW: I draw inspiration from many of my hobbies outside of cutting hair, whether it's golf, baking, woodworking or floral design. Each one of these requires precision, patience and a creative touch, just like cutting hair. For me, craftsmanship and artistry are at the forefront of everything I do, and I bring that same level of passion and detail to every client in my chair.
BLP: What changes would you like to see in the industry to better help hair pros grow and thrive?
FW: I would love to see an industry that moves away from validation through likes/views/followers. So many talented creatives in this industry are overlooked solely because they lack the digital numbers. We live in a digital era, but we as a community need to celebrate those who are genuinely good at what they do, not just the ones that have the following to go with it. Chasing engagement shouldn't be our focus, creating great hair should always be.
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
FW: My ultimate goal is to keep creating amazing hair at the highest level for as long as possible. If I can build a lasting career where creativity and motivation never run dry, then the milestones, achievements and accolades will naturally follow. For me, longevity and passion are the true measures of success.
