Today we’d like to introduce you to Rylee Avre.
Rylee, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was inspired in high school watching a show called Faceoff where contestants compete to create different characters and themes using special FX make up. I didn’t have the ability to move to L.A at the time and ended up enrolling in cosmetology at Bellus Academy. From there, I fell in love with doing hair. After graduating, it was difficult finding somewhere I could continue to learn and grow as a stylist. I was extremely lucky to find a mentor at Fredrick Michael Salon. Now, I have a studio space that I share with a close friend and colleague of mine and I couldn’t be more grateful to be my own boss at 24. I’ve only been a stylist for 4 years and I am excited to keep growing from here.
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?
I actually was let go from the first salon I worked at. I was fresh from school and still had much to learn at that point. My skills weren’t up to par with what they needed from me. It was scary too because I was 20 and had just moved into my first apartment. That “failure” actually made me more determined to be better and shortly after I found work assisting for an incredibly well rounded and talented stylist that has taught me an incredible amount. I’m very grateful for that experience. What I learned is that even when your failing or something isn’t working, that doesn’t mean it’s the end of the road for you. It’s a platform which you can learn from and use to jump off from. I’ve learned more from failure and I try my best to never be discouraged to keep going forward.
Please tell us about Hair by Rylee Avre.
I specialize in color and extensions. I’m extremely proud to be well-rounded thanks to my mentor. But, I mostly pride myself on my integrity in my work and honesty I have with my clients. I prefer to not double book most clients because I value taking the time to not only socialize but really focus on what I’m doing and make sure the client feels taken care of. I may double book in years to come but for now, I truly enjoy taking my time with each person as I see my work as a craft. Their hair is my medium and I want it perfect.
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 honestly was very lucky. My Dad had known my mentor Freddy and when I was looking for work he sent me there to interview. My advice for others would be to really look for an environment that is positive and a mentor whose skills and attitude you admire. You will pick up certain habits off of them so it’s important to kinda be picky. Most importantly, you should never be afraid to change or move if you feel you are not learning or growing! Don’t waste time anywhere that is not uplifting!
Contact Info:
- Address: 1233 Camino Del Rio south
San Diego, CA 92120 - Phone: 760-644-4517
- Email: rylee.fuentes@gmail.com
- Instagram: HairbyRyleeavre
Image Credit:
Rylee Avre
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