Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacquelyn Marie Hastings.
Jacquelyn Marie, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I originally started out as a martial arts instructor and a full time college student for graphic design when the economy crashed. Thus getting laid off of both of my graphic design jobs. I learned that I was replaced by someone who learned the same skills via the internet as I was paying tuition for college. I wasn’t sure what to do moving forward. Why pay for college when I could find another means of education for the same position. I decided to take an opportunity to go overseas with a local student exchange group, to Sicily, Italy.
The girl I lived with would have me do her hair and makeup when we would go out dancing at night. She recognized a talent in me that I didn’t. I remember the last day I was with her she told me, “Look at hair and makeup as ART, not a chore.” That moment right there changed my life completely.
When I got home from my trip, I researched makeup and cosmetology schools. And with the help of my Uncle Vince, who was co-owner of a successful Schaumburg salon, I signed up to become a licensed cosmetologist.
Fast forward to 2012, I was in search of a new salon base as the one I first started at decided to close its doors. I knew right down the street was a blossoming salon named, Bii [BEE] Hair Salon. The owners were smart, educated, and business savvy. One with a Business Degree and the other an established National Educator for a color company. I knew this would be the perfect move for me to push myself further.
I have been at Bii Hair Salon for the last 6 and a half years and wouldn’t change anything about my journey. I have had so many incredible opportunities without having to be in the heart of Chicago, but right here in the growing far northwest suburbs.
Not only am I educating and doing hair behind the chair, I am also using my graphic design and social media marketing tools I learned in college!
Has it been a smooth road?
It’s NEVER a smooth road. Life would be boring if it was an easy ride. My entire career started with a major struggle. It teaches one to push even harder when the road gets rougher. You learn to WORK HARD for what you want / have.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I work for Beauty Innovations Pro. This encompasses the salon I work in, Bii Hair Salon, and the professional product and tool company they’ve started which includes BalayPowder, BalayTools, & ProPosh!
I love that both of my passions can be combined in one spot! I get to work a couple days behind the chair at the salon doing what I love – HAIR, as well as spending time working on our social media and digital communications. I get to help in the creation and launches of new products, film and or star in educational videos, and travel to trade shows to grow our businesses and education!
The hair salon that I work at is a Natural based salon. We only do hair, (and some facial waxing). We take pride in mastering the art of hair. We are basically the hair nerds of our community. We thrive on education and healthy lifestyle initiatives. It’s what we are known for.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I think for my industry specifically, Chicago and its suburbs are an excellent choice for building a business, Two of the leading beauty industry magazines, cosmetology schools, and professional brands have started right here in our city and suburbs. Our communities only continue to grow and flourish, who wouldn’t want to be a part of that?! And we are just one of the multiple Salon Today Top 200 Salons located in Chicagoland! Chicago is KNOWN for good hair and style!
Contact Info:
- Address: Bii Hair Salon
1955 Huntley Rd
West Dundee, IL 60118 - Website: www.biihairsalon.com
- Phone: 847-428-8821
- Email: info@biihairsalon.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/jacquelynmarieh
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/BeautyByJacquelynMarie/
- Other: www.instagram.com/balaypowder
Image Credit:
that one photo of me teaching in the white dress is :
© 2014 James Jordan Photography
www.jamesjordanphoto.com
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
