Today we’d like to introduce you to Krista Marie Hertzel.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My first job ever was a salon assistant and I loved it. I loved the hustle of a busy salon, the work and dedication the stylists put into their craft and how evident it was that they loved what they were doing. There was something unique about the real and deep connections the stylists had with their guests. I loved that a trip to the salon could make someone’s day.
When it came time to seriously decide what I wanted to do with my future, continuing a life in the beauty industry was the only thing that made sense for me.
I remember at that time I had overheard a group of girls talking about the colleges they were applying for and then one of them said, “Oh well, if I don’t get in and all else fails I’ll just become a hair stylist.” I will never forget the feeling of how offensive that was, “if they only knew…” I thought. I knew my future was way more than a backup plan if everything else fails.
After Cosmetology school, I worked at a handful of salons around Chicago, and I worked hard. I sought out advanced education, took as many classes as I could, and exposed myself to as many different experts as possible. Three and a half years ago, after experiencing how different salons are run and stylists work I realized that to truly build my career and lean into my unique strengths I needed to go out on my own. That’s when K Marie Hair Studio was born.
Striking out on my own was scary and it hasn’t been without its bumps. However, when I think to make to those girls in high school talking about just being a hair stylist I can’t help but laugh. I’m not just anything. I’m a hair dresser and entrepreneur, a chemist and an artist, a small business owner and marketer, a teacher and confident. I get to do what I love and make people’s days.
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?
I wish I could say that the road has been smooth, but it hasn’t always been. Starting my own studio has been hard and I face challenges on a regular basis. I’ve struggled to find the right location that suits my guests and myself. I’m constantly learning and growing in my career and, although cliché, I like to believe that every bump I encounter gets me a little further down the road. I learned that working alone gave a difficulty of finding inspiration from other beauty professionals, so I began educating for the product company, Eufora International, where I specialize in teaching other hairstylists Long Hairdressing and Special Occasion Styling. Being able to surround myself with other cosmetologists has helped to keep my passion fueled.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the K Marie Hair Studio story. Tell us more about the business.
K Marie Hair Studio is a full-service salon based in East Lakeview. In addition to the tradition women and men’s color and cut, I specialize in Bridal and special occasions.
I can’t lie, I’m partial to blondes! They’re my specialty! But, I love all hair colors and types and particularly love when my clients come in with new ideas. I love a great challenge. I strive to make each of my client’s experience as personable as possible. I like being someone my clients can depend on not just for a good hairstyle but as a good listener. A newly referred client recently told me she wanted me to be her new best friend and I’ve never been so honored!
Almost four years into my business, I’m just as proud of the fact that my calendar for this year is almost fully booked as I am to have built wonderful relationships with so many of my clients.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Most things in life are some combination of good luck and hard work. I’m lucky to have the strong support system in my friends and family that I have. I’m lucky to have a job that enables me to meet so many different types of people. I’m lucky to have had the opportunities that I’ve had to learn and grow in my profession. And, sure, I guess you can say that I’m lucky I know how to work hard!
Contact Info:
- Address: 2860 N Broadway Suite 26
- Phone: 708.642.0698
- Email: kmariehairstudio@gmail.com
- Instagram: @kmariehairstudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kristahertzelhair/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/k-marie-hair-studio-chicago
Image Credit:
True Grace Photography, Anna Zajac Weddings
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