Life and Work with Noelle “Red” Denney

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started out as a licensed cosmetologist in early 2010 with the aspirations to work behind the chair and inspire upcoming artists in the industry.

In early 2013, I became an educator. As my career started to grow, I relocated from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego County. Here, I was given the amazing opportunity to become a Bellus Academy educator. Being able to see my students grow into successful and creative artists have been the best part of being an educator.

Behind the chair, I love to play on different inspirations all around me. I have now been able to correct and create new looks for all of my amazing clients.

This industry is endless and being able to not only create magic for my students, but also bring new confidence to my clients, has been nothing short of extraordinary.

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?
Starting in this industry is never easy. You have to build the confidence to bring the feeling of beauty to each and every one of your clients that sit in your chair.

For me, I started in Sacramento and continued my education in Santa Barabara, CA. Being a newly licensed cosmetologist in one of the most beautiful towns in the world was a bit daunting. I was able to work at a very prestigious salon and slowly build up my clientele. I was also offered an opportunity to educate future professionals at a Paul Mitchell school. Now, not only was I perfecting my craft, but I was also now molding future stylists.

My best advice is to walk before you run. Try assisting seasoned stylists and find and receive as much education as possible. This industry is saturated with talented artists that are more than willing to share their knowledge and experience.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Beautybyred – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I am more of a colorist than anything else. I have learned throughout the years that color is my passion. I specialize in blonding, color corrections, and dimensional color.

I am most proud of my students that have even surpassed me in milestones. One student, in particular, graduated only a year and a half ago and now owns one of the most known salons in downtown San Diego.

I love being behind the chair but inspiring my students to be successful and hone their own skill is just as fulfilling than showing a client their new color, cut, or style.

Often it feels as if the media, by and large, is only focused on the obstacles faced by women, but we feel it’s important to also look for the opportunities. In your view, are there opportunities that you see that women are particularly well positioned for?
The great thing about the beauty industry is it doesn’t have a mold of gender, sexual orientation or specific personalities. It’s definitely not one size fits all. But women have definitely created a respected role behind the chair and in education. Some of the most famous industry leaders such as Sonya Dove, Luci Doughty, and Jean Braugh have set a tone for the success and inspiration for current and future stylists.