Today we’d like to introduce you to Candice Stewart.
Hi Candice, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve honestly wanted to be a hairstylist for as long as I can remember. I was always that friend doing everyone’s hair and makeup for every dance or event. In high school, my counselor asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, and I told her, “a hairstylist.” She said that was a great hobby but not really a career you could make a living from. She asked what else I liked, and when I said fashion, she put me on that path instead.
Fast forward a few years—I moved to San Diego when I was 20 and decided to follow my heart. I worked full time during the day and went to beauty school at night for two years straight. After graduating, I started as an assistant at an Aveda salon in Pacific Beach. Eventually, I took a big leap and left my secure full-time job to do hair full time.
Those first few years were tough—I didn’t take a single vacation for three years while I built my clientele—but it was all worth it. I became a Lead Stylist, helped start an assistant program, and even went back to my old beauty school to teach. Giving back to where it all started for me was such an amazing feeling.
After 10 years at my first salon, I knew it was time to take things to the next level and open my own business. Now I rent my own chair in Pacific Beach and have been an independent business owner for nine years. It feels so good to look back and see that I’ve built a business, a family, and a life I love—all from a career someone once called “just a hobby.”
I feel so blessed and grateful to do what I love every single day. My clients and their referrals have been my biggest motivation and support. And next year, 2026, will actually mark 20 years of doing my dream job right here in beautiful Pacific Beach. I couldn’t be more thankful or proud of that.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t say it’s been too rough, but being a successful full-time hairstylist definitely takes a lot of hard work and sacrifice. We miss out on things like holidays, family gatherings, and birthdays, so you really have to pick and choose what you can be there for. I’ve always tried to make it a priority to be the best mom and the best hairstylist I can be.
These days, with everyone’s lives being so busy and fast-paced, I try to be available when my clients are. And I truly see and feel their appreciation for that. I think hairstylists today wear a lot of hats—we’re not just doing hair. We’re listeners, therapists, cheerleaders, and friends.
It can be a lot at times, but honestly, I just feel so grateful. I get to connect with so many incredible, inspiring people here in San Diego every single day. It’s such a gift to be part of their lives in even a small way.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Being a Blonde Specialist isn’t just about doing blonde hair! I absolutely love creating dimension—whether it’s brightening up brunettes, adding soft, lived-in highlights, or designing a color that just flows naturally. I really specialize in lived-in color techniques and love keeping up with the latest trends and ongoing education every month.
I think what I’ve become known for, besides the color work, is really listening to my clients. I take consultations very seriously—honestly, I think they’re just as important, if not more important, than the actual service. I never start until I know we’re completely on the same page. My clients often tell their friends that I’m honest about what will and won’t work for their hair, and with 20 years of experience, I’ve learned to trust my instincts.
What makes me proud is how strong and steady my business has become over the years. Pacific Beach is such a transient area—people are always coming and going—but so many of my clients have stayed with me for years. I even have people who drive down from L.A. or book with me when they’re visiting from out of state! That kind of loyalty means the world to me.
I think what really sets me apart is the energy and focus I give to the person in my chair. For those two hours, my client is my complete focus. I listen, I’m there if they need to talk, to laugh, or just relax. My goal is always to make them feel amazing when they walk out—inside and out. Life is so fast and stressful these days, and I want my chair to be a safe, happy place where people can just breathe, laugh, and feel cared for.
I feel so lucky that I get to do what I love every day and connect with so many beautiful souls along the way.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
First and foremost, my husband has played such a huge role in my success. He’s truly my biggest supporter and the most amazing partner. He’s just as much a part of this journey as I am — we’ve built this life and business together while raising our family. He’s the one who picks up our son from school, drives him to all his activities (he calls himself our son’s “Uber driver,” which always makes me laugh), and holds everything down when I’m busy at the salon. I couldn’t do what I do without him.
I’ve also learned to never be afraid to ask questions — especially when it comes to business and finances. I have so many incredible clients who are knowledgeable in those areas, and their advice and insight have helped me grow in ways I never expected.
Even beyond that, I’ve learned so much from my clients about life and parenting. I really do believe we attract like-minded people, and I feel so blessed that my chair has brought so many inspiring, kind, and supportive people into my life. I’m surrounded by a community that lifts me up both personally and professionally, and that’s something I’m endlessly grateful for.
Contact Info:
- Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/hair-by-candice-aveda-san-diego-3
- Other: https://www.google.com/knowledgegraphshares
