Nika Forsythe shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Nika, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
One of my proudest—and happiest—moments was watching the women of Unika Hair Studio come together for an educational event I hosted. The room was filled with energy as everyone supported one another, eager to learn and grow in their craft. We even had a videographer capture the laughter, teamwork, and behind-the-chair creativity, which made it all the more special. Seeing my team not only shine individually but also celebrate each other reminded me why I love what I do. The giggles, inside jokes, and shared joy were the cherry on top—it felt less like work and more like family.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Nika Forsythe, owner of Unika Hair Studio in Carlsbad, California, and a L’Oréal Professionnel National Artist. My work goes beyond great hair—it’s about creating confidence, community, and celebrating individuality. At Unika Hair Studio , we specialize in color transformations, extensions, and advanced techniques, and I also love doing bridal, editorial, and branding hair and makeup. Fashion and beauty have always inspired me, and bringing them together is one of my favorite parts of what I do.
Unika means “unique,” and that’s the experience we deliver—whether it’s a client in the chair, a bride on her big day, or stylists I mentor. I’m passionate about education and currently collaborating with Stephanie Azar on H.A.I.R. Body & Business, a program blending artistry with wellness to help stylists thrive behind the chair.
Outside the salon, I’ve been married for seven years (together 13) and adore my two pups, Chase and Scrappy, who are part of our salon family. For me, Unika isn’t just about hair—it’s about people leaving feeling seen, supported, and beautiful in their own unique way.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
The person who taught me the most about work was my father. He had an incredible work ethic—he never missed a day unless he was in the hospital for surgery. Watching his consistency and dedication showed me the value of hard work and being an independent. In contrast, my mother struggled to hold a job, which gave me the perspective that I never wanted to rely on anyone else financially. That mix of examples pushed me to work hard, take pride in independence, and build success as a woman and a small business owner.
When it comes to the salon world, my first mentors, Lorrie Hines and Kathy Perreault, shaped me in the early years. I started as a The person who taught me the most about work was my father. He had an incredible work ethic—he never missed a day unless he was in the hospital for surgery. Watching his consistency and dedication showed me the value of hard work and being a reliable provider. In contrast, my mother struggled to hold a job, which gave me the perspective that I never wanted to rely on anyone else financially. That mix of examples pushed me to work hard, take pride in independence, and build success as a woman and a small business owner.
I started as a receptionist, which gave me insight into the “front of the house” before ever working behind the chair—a perspective that’s been invaluable to running my own business today. On top of that, managing coffee shops, bars, and restaurants while growing my clientele gave me a crash course in leadership, profit and loss, and customer service. All of those experiences together taught me how to blend artistry with business and truly thrive as an entrepreneur in the beauty industry. Two Restaurant Owners who really solidified my business understand were Bobby Cardosa & Sylvia Manchaca teaching me profit and loss and Marketing. All of those experiences together taught me how to blend artistry with business and truly thrive as an entrepreneur in the beauty industry.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
Losing both of my parents to drugs and alcohol was one of the deepest wounds of my life. For years, I carried anger and pain, but I eventually realized that holding onto it only hurt me. My healing came through forgiveness—choosing to let go, to release the past, and to embrace life fully. That shift taught me that I am not a victim; I am a survivor.
Today, I lead with courage, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for life. I take risks, stay coachable, and remain committed to learning and growing every day. Forgiveness gave me freedom, and that freedom allows me to live with purpose and joy.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I would think my closest friends would say that what matters most to me is honesty and integrity. I believe in keeping your word and standing behind it—of course life happens, but in general, I value people who follow through and mean what they say. My friends also know that I have little patience for blame or a victim mentality. I respect people who take responsibility for their choices, rise above challenges, and do the work to help themselves. To me, strength, accountability, and authenticity are qualities that matter deeply in both life and relationships.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
I am trying to build a team and community to help grow stylists that are building their own businesses behind the chair either as an assistant or a sole proprietor booth renter . I hope in 7-10 years to have expanded into multiple locations that focus on self care and advanced education.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.unikahairstudio.com
- Instagram: @unikahairstudio & @mooreunikahair
- Facebook: Unika Hair Studio & Nika Forsythe LP Artist
Image Credits
Headshot by @crystalvlarson photography
