Life and Work with Qiana Stader

Today we’d like to introduce you to Qiana Stader.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Qiana. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Having had a passion for styling hair since the age of 4, while going to high school and working part-time, I decided to put myself through cosmetology school at the age of 17. Graduating from cosmetology school the same year, I graduated high school was the moment I knew my journey began. I perfected my craft by keeping up with all of the latest education in various fields of the beauty industry such as smoothing treatments, dreadlocks, coloring techniques, hair repair, cuts, and CURLS. I nurtured my passion for hair for 18 years and became an educator for Keratin Complex before opening my own full-service salon specializing in wavy/curly hair care. Now, my mission is to ensure every client feels confident in knowing how to take care of and nurture their new love for their hair!

Great, 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?
Being your own boss as an independent contractor is never a smooth road. It comes with its challenges but if hair is the true passion, you push through because you can’t imagine doing anything else. And the payoff is amazing! You go to work knowing that the time you’re putting in is for the Empire you’re building. For someone just beginning – you have to stay focused, be financially conscious, open to guidance and always strive to learn more about the industry. Entrepreneurs are no longer the cookie-cutter gentleman in a suit. We come in all shapes sizes and genders. We’re all here to make the world a more beautiful place one strand at a time!

Please tell us about CURL Salon.
I work with all hair lengths and textures. I’d like to think I specialize in curly hair because I have so much fun with it! I pride myself in being able to educate each client on how to care for their hair. I open their eyes to the beauty in something that has caused them so much grief. That look on their face is the most gratifying! I’m proud to have chosen a career that makes me feel so fulfilled.

There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
I recommend a networking with everyone you can. Everyone in the industry whether they’ve been in for 6 months or 60 years everyone has something valuable to share. There’s no textbook way to run your business in this industry so everyone’s advice helps. I go to trade shows, attend educational classes and courses. That is the best way to network. Seek out hair professionals whose work you admire. I have traveled to different states and countries for guidance and Inspiration from others in the industry. I love meeting like-minded stylists and educators to keep me motivated.

Contact Info:

• Address: 432 vista village dr
  Vista, CA
• Website: Www.curlsalons.com
• Phone: 760•536•3336
• Email: QCURLSALON@gmail.com
• Instagram: Q_cali_hair
• Other: Www.styleseat.com/hairbyq

Image Credit:
CURL Salon, Q Cali Hair, Qiana

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