Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathy Gomez.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
While in high school, I was in a program to go straight to a four-year university. I had applied, gotten accepted, and was about to go. There was something inside me that knew it wasn’t right. I’ve always been a creative soul and was really into painting and drawing. Last minute, right before my graduation, I decided to go check out Toni&Guy Hairdressing Academy to see what it was about. I fell completely in love and walked out feeling so inspired and knowing exactly what I needed to do.
The next day, I broke the news to my parents who’ve always thought and aspired me to be the first in our family to get a college education and go after ‘the American Dream.’ As expected, they were devastated but I was determined and I knew I could succeed doing something I was passionate about.
A few weeks later, at the age of 17, I moved out to Santa Monica waited until I was 18 and attended Toni&Guy and got my cosmetology license.
It was the best decision I’ve made and I don’t regret it.
Fast forward almost five years later, I’m happy and in love with what I do every day. I get to wake up and create beautiful art on women and see them radiate joy and confidence when I’m all finished, and that right there… it’s priceless.
Being a hairdresser has brought me success, purpose, and happiness. I am living my American Dream.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It’s definitely not been easy, but it’s been worth it. This journey has taught me to persevere and never give up. This industry is competitive and at times I would question my capabilities and worth. There were times where I thought I wasn’t good enough. But I decided to focus on myself and continue to grow both as a stylist and a person. Giving up just isn’t an option for me.
My advice for the people just starting off is to work hard, stay positive when times get hard, and humble when times are great. Also, always be a student, keep learning and growing constantly. This industry is always changing and if you’re not keeping up, then you’re falling behind. But most importantly… enjoy it! The good, the bad, the ugly, and the beautiful little moments in between.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a hairdresser and I specialize in color and transformations. I love taking a good old color correction and completely changing their whole look.
I’m proud of the work that I do because I’ve worked hard to get to the place I’m at. Not only do I do hair but I’ve build relationships with my clients that I love and cherish. I always strive to give them something that they love and feel great in because I genuinely care about them.
Who have you been inspired by?
My mother, she defines grit & grace. All I am or aspire to be is because of her.
Tanya Lange & Brittani Ritchey are two women that I met early on in my career that are crazy talented and so humble. They taught me so much and we’re all about supporting one another, rather than competing and comparing. They are two of the most genuine women I’ve met in this industry.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 9498700209
- Email: kathy_gomez95@yahoo.com
- Instagram: Hairbykathyg
- Facebook: Hair by Kathy Gomez
Image Credit:
Kateelizabethphotos
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