Today we’d like to introduce you to Lindsey McCullough.
Lindsey, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
As far back as I can remember, I have always wanted to be a hair stylist. My mom would pay top dollar for me to get my hair cut at Toni and Guy and I remember loving everything about my experience! The music, the atmosphere, and the stylist all seemed to be having so much fun! I remember thinking to myself, ‘is it possible to Love what you do for work?’ Having a job where you can look how you want AND make people feel good about themselves was 100% my jam. I knew being tethered to a desk or cubicle was not for me. And that’s all it took. I lost my father when I was 22 and hadn’t made moves to make my dreams a reality. I felt the best way to honor him was to do just that. So, I enrolled in the Toni and Guy Academy- Keller. Fast forward to my first job in the industry at Esoterica Studios off of 7th and Foch, where I would meet some of the most incredible and efficient artists and educators in the area! While I was making my bills, I still felt unfulfilled. A group of us decided to start Panther City Salon! I worked for the company for four years and this is the salon where my career would gain the momentum I needed to hone my craft! With the continuing education and stylist from all over near Southside, I finally had my clientele where I was comfortable. The comfort was fleeting, though. I started to feel complacent. Comfort began to feel uncomfortable. I wanted to provide more for my guests and after a bit of research, I found Novak Hair Studios. A ZERO waste salon with all the amenities of a high-end experience! This place aligned with my love of the planet, with my love of doing hair! What could be better? So, in March of 2019, I made the switch and have never been happier! I have more support from the staff at Novak than ever before!
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?
No, not at all. Now, I had two young boys to care for, so the pressure was definitely on. Full throttle. I was working multiple jobs with odd hours, spending less and less time with my family. It seemed like the light at the end of the tunnel was not even in my line of vision. So many times, I would think, ‘I’m not good enough’ ‘out of practice’ but unless I was doing hair, I wasn’t happy. My friendships suffered, I was in a tumultuous relationship where I felt most of the weight was on my shoulders with no support. And I was taking very poor care of myself. I felt my dreams slipping out of reach. The best advice I received was from one of my mentors, who is now a dear friend. K.I.S.S. (keep it simple, stupid) sounds strange, but it has stuck with me over the years because what she really meant was don’t give up! You know what you have to do, so do it! I apply this with my personal and professional life. And I will continue using it as a staple concept. It really is all I needed to hear at that time in my life!
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
Ah, this a little harder for me to talk about. I’ve never been good at talking about myself, as I think most of us struggle with. But I have recently been called a ‘blonde Specialist’ thanks to my reviews on Yelp. I have avoided reading reviews on my work, for like, ever. But I was delighted to learn this after new guests would come to me and say what they’d read online about my work! Flattered, thanks, guys!! If I am being honest, though, my passion is for cutting. Being an ‘instant gratification ‘ type girl, there is nothing more satisfying than watching the hair fall to the floor and the style to the guest’s preference! Currently, I’m obsessing over the Lob or Long Bob. I have dreamt countless nights of this cut and putting my signature on it!
What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
First, finding a salon with continuing education quarterly, at the very least, is paramount. I can’t be the only stylist who gets bored, easily. In fact, most stylists do. THAT IS OKAY! I look at it as your creative brain being on empty and needing fuel. Getting frustrated is part of the process and there is always room for growth! And most importantly. Support. I can’t stress this enough. Novak takes the cake for their support team. I’m so grateful for every obstacle I’ve had to hurdle because it has led me to me forever home!
Pricing:
- Haircut-$65
- Full highlight-$160+
- Partial Baylage-$130+
- Full Baylage-$180+
Contact Info:
- Address: Novak Hair Studios
250 W. Lancaster
Ft. Worth, TX 76102 - Phone: 8179176852, 817.592.4247
- Instagram: @onebadmutha_hair
Image Credit:
Tucker Ray tuckerrayphotography.com IG: @chucksandawhitetee
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