Today we’d like to introduce you to Tamara Holden.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Tamara. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I was not exactly a straight path! After Graduating with a bachelors in Fashion Merchandising, I ended up taking whatever job I could find out of college. The economy wasn’t super secure at the time, many graduates were not landing the best opportunities, so I felt I needed a trade to fall back on. Hairstyling seemed like a natural transition because it went hand in hand with fashion.
I ended up enrolling in Cosmetology school part time while working full time as an administrative assistant. After graduating, I knew working in a salon was not the right choice for me and again found myself somewhat lost. Not knowing what to do, I stayed in the admin field for a couple more years but did hair on the side for friends and family occasionally.
I did have a knack for bridal styling and eventually started doing a few weddings here and there for friends getting married. Things definitely picked up when I started posting my work on Instagram and Facebook.
Through that, I ended up doing my first styled shoot in 2016. I loved every second of it! It felt so close to my love of fashion and sort of lit this fire in me to consider freelancing. In 2017, I was getting more wedding requests and styled shoot opportunities.
As a naturally creative person, I was totally burned out in the admin field which put me at a crossroads to make a change. I took the official step in June of 2017 as a freelance hairstylist with a focus on wedding and editorial. I recently worked on my first film which was an amazing experience. I still feel very new to this journey, but I’ve been loving all the opportunities and excitement this path has brought me.
Has it been a smooth road?
After making the choice not to go the salon after graduating, I had to make a conscious effort to stay current on my own with trends and products and styles. It’s a skill you can definitely lose if you don’t use.
Another challenge was gathering the courage to leave a steady 9-5. Aside from prepping financially, it took preparation mentally because it’s a risk! The phrase that pushed me forward was “If it doesn’t work, you can always go back to what you did before”. Oddly enough This phrase keeps me going on tough days too!
I’d say once I left, a big challenge is staying focused on whats important and utilizing my time wisely. When I’m not onsite, there is plenty of work to do. In the beginning, I was either working like a maniac from morning until night or I was super distracted. I don’t have it all figured out yet, but I’ve learned the windows of time where I’m most productive, what distracts me and the importance of self-care.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with ‘Tamara Holden Hair’ – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I am an independent licensed, onsite hairstylist. I love it all – weddings, production, film and looking forward to expanding in all aspects.
What I’m known most for is creating natural and organic bridal hairstyles. I stray away from the traditional sleek classic bridal looks that tend to dominate the industry in the Midwest. Whether its a braid, loose wave or an intricate up style, almost everything I do has an undone quality. I see a definite market in the Chicago area for the bride that is attracted to styles with an effortless vibe and doesn’t necessarily fit in the formal look.
As a stylist, I have a true passion in finding the right style that makes an individual feel their best. I like to create a comfortable space for communication and feedback throughout the process, so a bride never feels pushed into a look she doesn’t like. It’s important to feel confident on your wedding day!
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
There is so much to love! I feel Chicago is one of the most beautiful places to be. Getting the chance to travel around this city so much since I started this career has only grown my appreciation for its beauty. I learn a new place to go or see every time I’m here. Also, don’t get me started on that lakefront!
If I had to choose something I don’t like? Traffic. I’ve had to develop a whole new way of driving and it’s not pretty.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tamaraholden.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamaraholdenhair
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tamaraholdenhair
Image Credit:
Alexandra Lee Photo, Photography by Madelyn, GTB Imagery, Laurel and Prairie, Meredith Washburn
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