Today we’d like to introduce you to Auriana Siplin.
Hi Auriana, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I got started when I was about 16 years old. I am the baby of my family, so when my siblings started going off to college, I was the only one left at home. This forced me to find a hobby. Braiding and baking were my hobbies at the time. I started off doing rope twists for my classmates and baking gourmet cupcakes. I was a true hustler. Rope twists were a hot commodity back in those days. Everybody just had to have them, and they were willing to pay their bottom dollars for them– so I learned the skill. My rope twists started at $65 per head, and prices were subject to increase depending on size and length. By my senior year in high school, I enrolled in cosmetology school at Indian River State College. I had become obsessed with all things hair. I’d go to school from 7 am – 2 pm and I’d attend cosmetology school at night from 5 pm – 10 pm. Shortly after I began, I landed an assistant/braider position at a local salon. After high school, I went off to college in Tallahassee, FL where I attended Florida A & M University (FAMU) majoring in political science. At FAMU, I continued hustling and styling hair on the side. My dorm room was “the salon” on the second floor of my dormitory. As time went on, my name got out there and I was recommended to work at a reputable salon just near campus. There I learned about ALL things hair-weave-related. Here is where I discovered my passion for wigs. Fast Forward to 5 years later (2020), I was able to start my very own premier wig & extensions business while pursuing a whole law degree. (I know. I’m crazy.)
Alright, 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?
Overall, I’d say it has been smooth. However, I’d be lying if I said I haven’t had any challenges. You know, the hair industry is almost like technology– it changes very frequently. Keeping up with trends and staying current with education is a challenge in itself. As soon as I master one style, here comes another dope stylist showcasing highlight reels of a new style/technique for the entire industry to learn. That being said, keeping up is a challenge, especially since wig-making is not my full-time career. Needless to say, I manage to stay on top of the game while also staying in my lane. In the past, I found myself trying to master EVERYTHING. It wasn’t until recently when I decided to sit down and really hone in on my niche.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in luxury wigs. I craft each unit weft by weft with my sewing machine. I select the best extensions, both raw and virgin, and create hair magic with every unit. I am most known for my soft styling, on both wigs and natural hair. I go by the motto: less is more. Once you start doing too much, it’s not going to be right. Simplicity is key, and soft/natural-looking hair is always the goal.
My background sets me apart from others. Because I have been trained to care for and grow natural hair while simultaneously using extensions/wigs. Most of my clients wear wigs, but I also provide healthy hair care services and regimens to promote growth underneath the extensions.
Most wig specialists are not concerned with the hair underneath the wigs, but I am not one of them. I do not tolerate hair neglect for the sake of a laid wig. My integrity as a stylist is much deeper than that. Don’t get me wrong though, the wigs are laid, but during silk press season ALL of my regular clients are eligible to come out and play honey.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Bringing client visions to life makes me happy. When my clients and prospective customers show me a photo of something they want, and I actually bring it to life– man, that is the ultimate joy. It’s just a reminder that I can do anything.
Pricing:
- Custom Closure unit – $200
- Custom Frontal Unit – $250
- Ready Made Units – $300 & UP
- Pre-made (factory) Units – $300 & UP
- Merch – $25 & UP
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.wigchix.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/wigchix
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/wigchix
Image Credits:
CP Studios
