We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad’s 30 Over 30 contest, sponsored by Denman Brush.
Get to know Cecilia Jimenez (@ceciliathestylist). She is a hairstylist at George Charles Studio & Spa in Chicago, IL.
Q&A:
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Cecilia Jimenez (CJ): I enjoy planning surprise parties and creating homemade gifts!
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
CJ: I started my journey in the hair industry when I was in high school. I loved styling my hair and experimenting with new styles! My family and friends always wanted me to style their hair, and I always loved it.
BLP: What is your proudest achievement in the industry thus far?
CJ: I won NAHA’s Barber of the Year award in 2023.
BLP: What advice would you give to the younger version of yourself just starting out in the industry, looking back on your whole career?
CJ: My advice to my younger self is don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. I used to be insecure not knowing how to do anything because everyone is so talented. I realized the more I tried different methods I gained my confidence by finding my own niche!
BLP: What is your current favorite hair trend?
CJ: My favorite hair trend is textured French twist for weddings! I love updos!
BLP: What is a valuable hair tip that you want to share with your fellow stylists (whether it’s a business tip or something related to styling/working with hair)?
CJ: My advice to everyone in the beauty industry is to learn from your mistakes, and failing is winning in my eyes. No matter how many mistakes I’ve made, I learned to monitor myself and how to handle my future approach. Yesterday is gone, and tomorrow is a new day!
BLP: What inspires your work?
CJ: My clients inspire my work. I love having consultations while I can analyze my approach. My clients trust me, and that’s what inspires me to grow each day!
BLP: What is something that keeps you passionate and motivated in the industry each day?
CJ: What keeps me passionate and motivated is to dress professional and stylish. I represent myself, so I love to wear all black and have my hair styled. I am a firm believer in handshakes to show my clients how much I appreciate their time with me.
BLP: What changes would you like to see the industry make in order to grow/change/evolve/be better than it was before?
CJ: The change I would love to see in our industry is to have more business programs. It would benefit a lot of individuals in our beauty industry who are struggling keeping afloat. I think it should be mandatory to progress and learn from other businesses/companies.
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
CJ: My career goal is to travel more for my work and to network with other stylists in different cities!
To see the full list of winners, read Beauty Launchpad's May/June issue.
