We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad’s 25 Under 50K contest, sponsored by Platinum Seamless.
Get to know Evana Elysa (@evanaelysahair). She is a hairstylist, content creator and owner of Evana Elysa Hair in Corpus Christi, TX.
Q&A:
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Evana Elysa (EE): I used to sing Mariachi Music as a kid
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
EE: I grew up in the salon. My dad is a hairdresser of over 20+ years. I always knew what I wanted to do, and he always told me not to do it, so of course I had to do it anyway.
BLP: What is your proudest accomplishment?
EE: My proudest accomplishment is being able to connect with hairdressers around the world and help them achieve their own goals.
BLP: What is your current favorite hair trend?
EE: My current favorite hair trend is effortless color, such as lived-in brunettes and blondes. They will never go out of style.
BLP: What is a tip you have for your fellow stylists who are looking to grow their following on socials?
EE: Always be your authentic self and show up online for yourself. Once you start to put the real you on social media, it becomes easier. When you accept what you look and sound like on camera, you’re able to really shine.
BLP: What advice would you give to the younger version of yourself just starting out in the industry, looking back on your whole career?
EE: Hair grows back. It's OK to mess up. Make as many mistakes as it takes because one day you are going to help others in this industry not make the same mistakes.
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)?
EE: My business started to grow online when I started showcasing my clients' faces in their hair photos. People are looking not just at the hair but the lifestyle that comes with the hair service you provide, so show more of that off.
BLP: What inspires your work?
EE: Definitely music. I can listen to music in the car while driving to work that evokes a mood or feeling, and I will start envisioning how the hair is going to flow and look.
BLP: What is something that keeps you passionate and motivated in the industry each day?
EE: My team of younger stylists Lauren and Ilyse. I think God placed them in my salon because he knew I needed them. They help me grow and keep me current on the trends. I want to be a role model to the younger generation of hair stylists.
BLP: What changes would you like to see the industry make in order to grow/change/evolve/be better than it was before?
EE: More balance overall in work/life boundaries. I think we have made success throughout the years as hairdressers, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
EE: My ultimate career goal is to be happy every day regardless of the client, how dirty the salon is, how much work there feels like there is and whatever other stresses life puts on us. I’m chasing happiness, not medals.
