Today we’d like to introduce you to Audrey Bryant.
Audrey, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
When I was little, I always to be a hairstylist. I would tell my mom and everyone who would listen that I would be a “hair doer” when I grew up. I was a shampoo girl at a salon in high school and after college I went to Paul Mitchell the School in Huntsville, AL. After I graduated, I moved back to Chicago and started my career in hair and make up. The rest is basically history.
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?
No, it was nowhere near a smooth road; I actually dropped out of beauty school the first time I went because I was 19, living on my own and my work schedule didn’t mix well with my school schedule. I was young wanting to jumpstart my career and constantly discouraged by feeling like things weren’t happening fast enough for me. Once I accepted that I was exactly where I was supposed to be at that exact moment, I was able to stay the course and get my life on track. My advice for young women on their journey is: put your blinders on, don’t worry about what someone else is doing and don’t be jealous of their success. Do the work so no one can deny your work.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into AudreytheFairy story. Tell us more about the business.
I am a freelance hair and makeup artist in media and fashion. As a salon stylist, I specialize in hair care. I’m known for being the “glam fairy”. My goal is to leave a little sparkle everywhere I go. I am most proud of how supportive my clients and friends have been on my journey. What sets me apart is that I am ALWAYS my authentic self. There are a lot of fakes in my industry. A lot of people pretending to be someone else. I think me being true to myself is what makes me bookable and consistently working.
What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership, in your industry or generally?
I think there are more barriers for women of color than actual women in general in my industry. There’s just not enough women of color in my industry, especially in the Midwest. I’m working to change that.
Contact Info:
- Address: 5937 W North Ave
- Website: www.styleseat.com/AudreySparx
- Email: info.audreythefairy@gmail.com
- Instagram: AudreytheFairy
- Twitter: AudreySpeaks
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