Life and Work with Katie Carter

Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Carter.

Katie, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I have been a hairstylist for about 15 years and I am probably more in love with my career than I was when I started. I just can’t imagine myself doing anything else. I still love taking classes, collaborating with other artists, and pushing myself to do things I haven’t done before (like painting portraits on hair).

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?
I have hit quite a few road bumps along the way. To be honest, I feel that I have experienced the most growth through my failures and trust me, I failed a lot at first. If I could give advice to some of the younger women starting their journey, it would be to find a way to work with people you admire. Reach out to them or attend their classes and make those connections.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Radar Salon Stylist – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
In general, I love trying things that challenge me. Currently, I have been playing with hand painting images On hair wefts. Behind the chair, I tend to gravitate towards more cut and color. Every client is different. I love creating a style for the individual and trying to tailor something that will enhance what is already there whether it’s adding a complimentary tone that matches a clients eye color or giving someone unicorn hair. Every day brings a different challenge and I live for that.

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?
Reach out to them, and network. I found my mentor on Instagram and booked a hair appointment just to introduce myself. My inner introvert knew I wouldn’t stand out in a crowd, but if I got in his chair, I would have one time to talk to him and make an impression. I kept pre-booking and kept going back to him and it took about a year before he finally offered me a job.

Contact Info:

• Address: Radar Salon
  6790 Top Gun St.
  San Diego, CA 92121
• Website: Radarsalon.com
• Phone: 8582016803
• Email: kt.whitley.carter@gmail.com
• Instagram: Dyerannosauresrex

Image Credit:
Diana Kravchenko

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