Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Stebbings.
Hi Emily, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I grew up in my best friend’s mom’s salon in North Carolina. We moved to Southern California when I was about 10 years old, but I stayed close to my best friend and her family. I flew back to visit in the summers and worked in the same salon as the shampoo girl. I answered the phones, swept up hair, shampooed, and grabbed the lunch for everyone. I thought it was the coolest job ever! In high school, I tried to get into a program where you could learn a trade by the time you graduate, but the waitlist was just too long. So as soon as I graduated, I started cosmetology school at Riverside community college. They had a great reputation, so I was excited. I worked at a Mexican restaurant all through school. After passing my test and getting my license, I quit my job and started looking for a salon job. I had always loved Aveda, so I started looking for a job at an Aveda salon and spa. I was hired at my first salon job as an assistant but quickly got thrown onto the floor due to the economy! It was definitely an intense way to learn, but I feel I learned my skills quick due to that situation. I was doing color corrections right away and was coached through it by my boss in the back. After building a clientele, another one of my best friends, who I happened to work with, decided to move to another salon and spa in the Temecula area. I decided to move there and start booth rent. I worked there for a while and loved the continuous education I received from Aveda. I got engaged and knew after I was married, I would be moving to Oceanside, where he lived. I had a friend who worked weddings with the owner of Lotus Den Hair Studio and said I would be a perfect fit! I called for an interview, and we met for a smoothie, and I knew it was more my vibe. I loved the intimate laid back atmosphere where making our clients feel like the priority was the main goal and not just about the typical hussle. I learned a new color line, Wella and Redken, and the new art of social media, which I was not previously used to. I’m going on 9 years at Lotus Den and have been along for the growth of the salon and of south o itself. I’ve been in the industry, though, for 17 years. I still love going to work every day and feel fortunate to have a passion that I call my career as well.
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?
Definitely not a smooth, easy road. I had to sit long hours waiting for just one haircut at the end of my day, trying to build up my clientele. And moving locations, you have to start over with that as well.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I do custom colors, haircuts, and Babe extensions. I specialize in blonding and natural lived in color. I’m most proud of my persistence and dedication to growing my business.
We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I love change even though I’m a creature of habit.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: EmilyStebbingsHair
