Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Wirkus.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Stephanie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have always known I’ve wanted to do hair. From a young age, I was influenced by my Aunt who was a hairdresser for many years. I was constantly intrigued by everything she did, and I was always practicing on myself and sisters.
Fast forward to graduating high school, I decided to get a degree in Business Management from SDSU. Upon graduation, I realized I didn’t want to work behind a desk in an office. And I soon made the decision to enroll in Cosmetology school. It was by far the best choice I’ve made!
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?
It was definitely a struggle making the decision to go back to school and embark on a new career in the beauty industry. Cosmetology school is extremely strict, with an intense full-time curriculum which took up over 40+ hours of my week. Trying to balance that schedule with a job and social life was near impossible.
But I have to say, graduating and getting my cosmetology license was one of the most gratifying experiences I’ve ever had. One year and 1600 hours clocked, I was finally one step closer to fulfilling my dreams of becoming the hairstylist I knew I always wanted to be.
Please tell us about Styled by Stephanie Wirkus.
I am a hairstylist in a private studio in a large salon in Bay Park. I specialize in natural highlights and balayage, as well as bridal hair. I have a huge passion for styling and absolutely love working with my brides.
I would say I am most proud of the space I have created in my studio. It is a direct reflection of myself and is my own little sanctuary that I get to share with my clients. Because I cut, color, and style, I am often able to connect with my brides before and after their weddings by offering services beyond their big day.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve benefited from using?
Of course, Instagram is a pivotal part of my business. The hair industry is constantly changing and evolving as a whole. New techniques, products, and trends are always shifting and I love to take other artists’ work as inspiration. With thousands of videos being posted daily, I find myself taking tips and tricks from others and applying them to my day to day life in the salon.
Continuing education is also one of my most important resources. I recently attended a Bridal Updo workshop and being able to see the educator create updos with her own techniques inspired me to utilize those on my bridal parties as well.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1923 Morena Blvd
San Diego, CA 92110 - Website: www.StephanieWirkus.com
- Phone: (858) 531-9157
- Email: styledbystephaniewirkus@gmail.com
- Instagram: @styledbystephaniewirkus
- Other: https://www.yelp.com/biz/stephanie-wirkus-san-diego-2
Image Credit:
Kelli Degrazier
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