Multi-Faceted Hair Pro Gina Sicard Shares Her Tips for Success

Tasked with deciding between being a chef or a beauty professional, Gina Sicard (@iamginabianca) entered the industry in 2009. Since then, she has become a stylist behind the chair, salon owner, podcast host, educator and more. Becoming the multi-faced hair professional that she is, Sicard has learned plenty and is now sharing her tips for success with us. Read on to learn how she got her start, what inspires her, where she sees the industry heading and more. 

Beauty Launchpad (BLP): How did you get started in the industry? 

Gina Sicard (GS): I began my journey in the beauty industry in 2009. At the time, I was deciding between becoming a chef or a hairstylist. I’m so grateful that I chose to visit my local beauty school. My love for getting my hair done in high school and the inspiration from my hairstylist led me to explore this path. As a C student who didn’t fully find my direction until my senior year, attending a prestigious school seemed out of reach, so I opted for hairdressing as a fallback until I figured out my true calling.

Enrolling in beauty school was nerve-wracking, but I immersed myself in the experience and the culture, and I learned so much. I can't overstate my gratitude for beauty school; it provided me with invaluable confidence through learning a trade. The cherry on top was listening to Robert Cromeans' CDs during my 45-minute daily commute. His inspiration shaped my dream of becoming a salon owner and emulating his career path. Hairdressing evolved from a backup plan into my future as I absorbed his teachings, gained knowledge and built my confidence. As far as becoming a chef, one of my greatest personal passions is cooking, especially for groups, and I am so glad I kept it as a hobby instead of a job!

BLP: What is your inspiration process like? Gina working with a client behind the chair.Courtesy of Gina Sicard

GS: It’s important to note that I wear many hats: stylist, educator, salon owner, etc. For me, inspiration comes in silence and without distractions. I find that I’m most creative on an airplane, without WiFi, with a blank document, asking myself, “What does ____ need?” The blank could be “my salon, my students, my family, my life,” and so on.

I also draw inspiration from studying people who have achieved goals I aspire to. I’ve shifted my focus from following other hairstylists to learning from those who have built real estate portfolios, accumulated wealth, prioritized health and excelled in areas outside of my immediate field. When it comes to hair, my inspiration peaks when a client says, “I want a change; do whatever you think is best.” I also gain a great deal of inspiration from my students, from whom I learn so much, and from my stylists, who are brutally honest about our salon's needs and are deeply invested in its success.

BLP: Who has mentored you or served an important role in your journey?

GS: If I had to choose one person who has had the most profound impact on my career, it would be Robert Cromeans. The confidence he instilled in me encouraged me to take risks I might not have otherwise taken. Currently, my most influential mentor is Victor Valverde, who has been guiding me as a salon owner. Personally, I’ve learned to hustle and persevere from the absence of my father and the drive and motivation of my mother. My husband is also a crucial resource, providing balance and support. Today, my greatest inspiration in my business is my daughter, as I am deeply motivated to leave a lasting legacy for her. It’s also worth noting that I have been sober for four years and owe immense thanks to my therapist for helping me during this time. It is true that nobody is self-made, and I have many architects of my life who have guided me to where I am today.

BLP: What advice would you give stylists just entering the industry? Gina Sicard applying foils to a model while educating on stage.Courtesy of Gina

GS: With a cosmetology license, you can do so much. With work ethic, you can do so much more. With confidence in yourself and courage, you can do anything.

BLP: What challenges have you encountered in the salon industry over the years?

GS: Too many challenges to count: owning a salon at a young age and struggling as a leader, managing the salon during COVID, transitioning from a team-based to a rental model and dealing with turnover despite my best efforts. Codependent giving — offering too much in hopes of retaining staff — has been another struggle. There are many struggles, challenges and life lessons in being a salon owner and hairstylist. We choose this career for our love of art, but true longevity requires a deep love for people and a genuine desire to support them.

BLP: Where do you see the salon industry headed?

GS: Extremely independent. Even employment-based salons need to balance freedom and flexibility with cultivating a brand and providing consistency. I believe the new generation has much to teach us, and it will take more effort to inspire them when they’ve seen it all before breakfast on their phones.

BLP: What are your best tips for success in the salon industry? Gina outside of her salon, The Network Salon.Courtesy of The Network Salon

GS: The best tip for success is to truly define what success means to you and take steps to achieve it. Everyone’s vision of success is unique and relative to their situation. Your vision for success may change, and it’s okay to pivot and design the life you want. Once you define success clearly, it becomes much easier to reach it rather than aiming for an ill-defined target.

BLP: You have your own podcast. What made you want to start it, and what can beauty pros expect when they listen to an episode?

GS: I started my podcast in 2019 because I recognized podcasting as the future and wanted to stay ahead of the curve. You can expect true transparency from my podcast and all my content. I keep it real and share what’s genuinely happening and what I truly believe. While some may find my approach a bit intense, my mission is to elevate the beauty industry. If I can help even one person avoid pain and roadblocks, I’ve done my job. Currently, the podcast focuses on salon ownership, so if that interests you, you’ll love it!

BLP: You’re also a salon owner. How do you balance all of the different hats you wear as a hair professional? What advice do you have for other beauty pros who also want to be multifaceted in the industry? Gina's salon, The Network SalonCourtesy of Gina Sicard

GS: The more you can focus on one thing, the better you will do. One of my biggest struggles is managing too many responsibilities at once. Before you take on something new, master what you’re currently doing and avoid starting new projects as an escape from the hard work required for your existing commitments.

BLP: What are some cuts and colors that you anticipate to be trending in 2025? 

GS: In 2025, anticipate trends shifting towards understated looks, with an emphasis on "old money" aesthetics. Expect to see more brondes and a significant number of blondes opting for darker shades. I also think the “money piece” is on its way out.

Gina's 5 Salon Must-Haves 

1. XL Foils
2. Long tail foiling comb
3. Cream lightener
4. 10 minute color
5. Long barrel curling iron