Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayla Howell.
Hi Kayla, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to today?
I grew up in Southern California and decided to go to Cosmetology school right out of high school. I was only 17 and didn’t know where it would take me. The industry can be tough initially, but I stuck it out. About 3 years ago, an opportunity came up to move to Nashville, and I took it. Doing hair allowed me to move anywhere I wanted, and I went with it. My family wasn’t sure what I was thinking, but thankfully my Mom, Dad, and Step Dad got on board and fully supported my decision. I had no idea how hard moving across the country would be. My whole world changed, and I began to wonder who I was for the first time in my life. Doubts crossed my mind if I had made the right decision, but I’m happy to say I did. I’ve now been licensed to do hair for 15 years. Thinking about that number blows my mind!
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Life is hardly a smooth road, and I’ve had some hard times. I suffered from severe anxiety and panic attacks the first few months after getting to Nashville. For the first time in my life, and at the later age of 31, I didn’t know who I was without my friends or family. I hadn’t realized how dependent I was on them. I was all alone to decide who I was. Not only was I surrounded by a whole new lifestyle but also new coworkers. New clientele. I thought about moving back home so many times. Eventually, I found my footing after the most challenging months of my life. I stayed committed to myself. To MY goals and MY dreams despite the massive fear of the unknown. Would I make it as a hairdresser out here? Would people like me? Would I make new friends? Believing in the unknown requires so much faith in yourself. At times, I’ve had to learn to be my own best friend and support system. I’m still learning.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I want to think I specialize in blonding primarily because I have two sisters and a very particular mom about their hair—a lot of trial and error. Let’s say they were hard on me in the best way. I think the color is my passion, along with precision cutting. I don’t think doing hair is necessarily about the hair. It’s about communication. It’s about understanding what people are saying when they sit in that chair. They share themselves with you. I genuinely care about my clients. Their successes, their hardships. It’s not just about the money for me. Building a bond and trust with them is so rewarding. I’m so proud of myself for sticking it out in this industry. I’m not sure what sets me apart, but I hope it’s because people can see that I’m thrilled to be doing their hair and spending that small amount of time with them.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
When I started doing hair, social media and apps weren’t a thing to promote yourself. Getting comfortable with that is still unnatural for me, but I force myself. You have to change and adjust to the times. I’ve worked with some of the most outstanding hairdressers, and learning through that has helped me immensely. I think you can learn anything new from any hairdresser if you’re willing and open to it. As far as books go, I’ve read so many different genres. East of Eden is still one of my favorites by John Steinbeck.
My best learning tool for work or otherwise has just been the constant desire to be a better person every day inside and outside of work. But also, I’ve tried to take every hair class that was offered to me. You can never take too many.
Contact Info:
- Email: Kaylahowell23@gmail.com
- Website: goldroomsalon.com
- Instagram: Kaylahowellhair
Image Credits
Deb Scharfenberg Caleb Sexton
