Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Kaye.
Hi Erica, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story began around the age of ten. I was always experimenting with fun temporary hair colors—on myself, my cousins, and my friends. As I got older, that creativity only grew, and I’ve had almost every hair color imaginable.
I’d like to think my older sister played a big role in inspiring my passion for hair. When I was young, she attended cosmetology school, and she and her friends would often practice on me. Although she later chose a career in the medical field, she passed down all of her leftover color products and supplies to me. Before long, I had rainbow hair and a growing love for the beauty industry.
Even though my passion started early, I officially entered the industry later in life. At 24, I graduated from cosmetology school and went straight into booth rental. About a year later, I opened my first salon suite and quickly realized suite life was exactly where I was meant to be.
Since then, I’ve continued to grow my business, expand my skills, and connect with some of the most amazing women along the way. This career has given me so much, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
My journey has taught me one important lesson: do what you love and never give up.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey has definitely not been a smooth one. It has come with many ups and downs, and the beauty industry is constantly evolving. Building a clientele was not easy, especially coming from a small town like Blum, Texas, with a population of under 500. Living in a rural area and not knowing many people meant I had to work hard to market myself and create opportunities.
One of the biggest tools that helped me grow was hosting model calls, which allowed me to build my portfolio and showcase my work. It took time, patience, and consistency to gain momentum.
I won’t pretend that entrepreneurship is ever completely without challenges—it can still feel like a roller coaster at times. However, I’ve come so far in my journey, and I can confidently say that it does get easier with time, experience, and perseverance.
Most importantly, it is absolutely worth it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a color specialist with a passion for creating customized looks in every shade—from bright blondes and rich brunettes to bold, vivid transformations. I also specialize in hand-tied extensions, helping clients achieve added length, volume, and confidence.
While I naturally gravitate toward vivid colors because they allow my creativity to truly come to life, the majority of my clientele consists of blonding services and dimensional blonde transformations.
No matter the service, my ultimate goal is for every client who sits in my chair to leave feeling confident, beautiful, and like the very best version of themselves
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
For collaborations, bookings, and creative inquiries, connect with me on all social platforms @hairbyericakaye. Let’s create something beautiful together.
My advice to anyone entering the beauty industry is to do your research and be intentional about where you begin your career. While you are still in school, find someone experienced to shadow and learn from. Never be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance—there is so much value in learning from those who have already walked the path.
Before accepting a position at a salon, take the time to tour the space and get a feel for the environment, the team, and the overall culture. The salon where you start your career can have a major impact on your growth, confidence, and long-term success.
Choose a place where you feel supported, inspired, and genuinely happy. If possible, seek out a mentor, shadow them, and consider starting your career in a salon where they work. Having the right guidance and environment in the beginning can make all the difference.
Pricing:
- Haircut $45
- Highlight start at $140
- Balayage starts at $150
- Vivids start at $150
- All over color starts at $100
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hairbyericakaye.glossgenius.com/
- Instagram: Hair_byericakaye
- Facebook: Hair by Erica Kaye
- Other: Facebook hair by Erica Kaye
