Hello!  I'm Mary, a licensed cosmetologist for 3 1/2 years now.  My interest in hair and beauty was piqued at a very young age, leading me to explore many different fields within the beauty and health industry.  At first, I dabbled in modeling, skin care science and make-up artisty.  After participating in several international hair shows as a hair model, wardrobe designer, runway director, model scout, and later as an assistant to the stylists, I was drawn even more into the beauty industry--especially to the hair industry.  After an unexpected layoff in my previous career plan, a friend of mine, a stylist, gave me some advice that I was surprised and intrigued by.  He told me to go to cosmetology school and attain a license to do hair, as he was sure that I would excel in the industry.  I didn't even hesitate.  Within a week I was signed up and on my way, determined and excited. 

 

After one and a half years, I felt drained from a grueling work and school schedule and fitting in time for my jewelry business (I designed jewelry to supplement my income while in beauty school).  It would have been nice to run off to work at a salon in the area, making money right away, like many other stylists that I graduated with.  However, I didn't want to be average, or even good for that matter.  I wanted to be great.  So, after researching the area salons in search of a suitably calibered one, I was able to attain an apprenticeship.  I worked under several of the best stylists in the area, two in particular--Jasmine Upchurch and Paolo Dibenedetti.  My apprenticeship lasted for 6 months.  Most of my time was spent shampooing (I was surprised to find that there is an art to this), sweeping up hair or mixing color.  Only on rare occassions was I given the opportunity to blowdry, cut, color or highlight a client's hair.  I didn't realize that I was learning so much just through careful observation and asking questions.  When I finally decided that I had enough knowledge to unleash myself on the public (ha ha), I left to start my career as a hair stylist.  My tallents lie primarily with hair coloring/highlighting, cutting and blowdry styling.  In beauty school, I had declared to my instructors that I would never again do a perm or "old lady 'do" after I graduated.  I meant that, and I still will not do either of those things, so please don't ask.  :)  I especially enjoy doing makeovers, as it is most rewarding to see the drastic change in appearance and confidence of individuals following such a transformation. 

 

I am more blessed now than I have ever been in my life.  A few months prior to completing cosmetology school, I met my husband.  We were married in June of 2006, in the presence of our family and friends.  With his support, I have continued to grow my own hair business by nearly 30% per year.  All of this growth with virtually no advertisement, other than word of mouth.  So thank you to all of my wonderful clients!  Your support and constant raving have allowed me to do what I love.  Also, I was able to donate several makeovers to a local women's shelter in Raleigh and many deserving school teachers in the area.  I hope to extend this makeover opportunity to many others who are less fortunate in the coming year. 

 

Thank you for taking this time to read a little bit about me.  I look forward to the opportunity to meet you and discuss the possibilities that your hair has to offer.