Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie LeBlanc.
Hi Stephanie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up in Mississippi, and for as long as I can remember, I was drawn to art—but I never quite found the right outlet. I worked a variety of jobs, spending many years in the restaurant world, until one day I was talking to my manager Val, who is still a dear friend. I told her I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life, but I knew I couldn’t keep working nights forever. She looked at me and said, “Stephanie, I think you would make a wonderful hairstylist.”
That thought stayed with me, and within a week, I was enrolled in hair school. I quickly learned that doing hair wasn’t as easy as it looked, so I completed an apprenticeship at one of the top salons in Jackson, Mississippi, where I trained for about a year and a half. My first real job was at the sweetest, most wholesome barber/salon in Madison, Mississippi, called Madison Barber and Style. I started out doing kids’ and men’s cuts, and eventually, I convinced the moms to let me do their hair. That’s when I discovered my love for color, and I poured my heart into learning and perfecting it. I stayed there for about 10 years, building relationships and truly growing as an artist.
Life took a turn when I went through a divorce, and I knew I needed a fresh start. My best friend Lindsay lived in Nashville, and it just felt right to move here. At first, I wanted to try something new, so I went back to restaurant work and then into real estate. While both experiences taught me valuable lessons, I realized how much I missed being behind the chair. About five years ago, I returned to doing hair, and now I’m celebrating my 15th year in the industry.
This work is so much more than a career for me—it’s my passion. It’s where I get to be creative, connect deeply with people, and make them feel beautiful, seen, and cared for.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The path to where I am now hasn’t been a smooth ride—but it has been such a beautiful journey. Eight years ago, when I moved to Nashville for a fresh start, I decided to take a different direction. After doing hair for 10 years, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to continue. I felt ready to try something new, so I stepped into real estate. That season of my life taught me so much—about communication, about connecting with all kinds of people, and about seeing the world from new perspectives. It was truly lovely to explore a different side of myself.
When I eventually returned to doing hair, I knew it wouldn’t be easy. Building a business and a brand from scratch is challenging, and for a long time I juggled three different jobs while growing my clientele. But every bit of that hard work has led me to this place, where I can honestly say I truly love what I do.
My passion shines through because doing hair isn’t just about creating beautiful styles—it’s about the connection. Every day I get to sit with incredible women, hear their stories, and share in their lives. The conversations we have and the trust they give me are what make my work so meaningful.
Now, I feel so grateful to be at Fruition in Belmont—the most amazing salon I’ve ever worked in—surrounded by thoughtful, kind, compassionate, and inspiring stylists who make every day a joy.
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’ve been a hairstylist for almost 15 years, and my journey began in a small barber salon where I did lots of men’s and kids’ cuts. Before long, I convinced the moms to let me do their hair—and that’s when I discovered what I truly loved: color. Over the years, I’ve grown to specialize in it, with a particular passion for creating beautiful blondes and dimensional rich brunettes that enhance someone’s natural beauty rather than completely change it.
What means the most to me is that my clients return because they want to—not because they feel they have to. I believe that’s because I aim to create a space that feels safe, welcoming, and uplifting.
One of the main reasons I became a hairstylist is because I’m truly a service-oriented person at heart. I love making people feel good, feel seen, and feel heard. It sparks my artistic side in the most fulfilling way. When someone brings in a photo or shares their vision, I listen deeply, absorb every detail, and do everything I can to give them exactly what they’ve imagined—sometimes even better.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite childhood memories is our family trips to Dauphin Island Beach. Every year, we stayed in the same little beach house, unloading all our things and settling into a week that felt like pure magic. My godparents came with us, and we had one special rule—no TV for the whole week. Each morning we woke up, headed straight to the beach, played in the sand, and soaked up the sun all day, fully immersed in the elements and the moment.
In the evenings, we’d walk to the cutest little snow cone stand, where I always ordered either strawberry or orange, topped with cream. It was the best treat, but even more special was sitting with my family afterward, looking out over the water, feeling completely at peace. Even as a little girl, I understood the beauty of being present—of letting the sun, sand, and sea fill you with goodness.
At night, the magic continued. We’d take long walks along the beach under the moonlight, flashlights in hand, chasing sand crabs as they darted across the shore. Sometimes we’d tell make-believe stories inspired by the moon above us, the sound of the waves setting the perfect backdrop. It was a time of true connection, pure joy, and simple fun. And I’ll never forget my daddy’s favorite line on those trips: “We’re on vacation—you can have whatever you want.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Fruitionsalon.com
- Instagram: Stephanieleblanchair
