Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Elizondo Kemp.
Hi Andrea, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
From a young age, I knew I wanted to be part of the beauty industry.
My aunt, a hairstylist and former salon owner, used to share stories about her work, and we’d spend hours talking about her clients, her creative process, and everything she loved about the job.
Those conversations inspired me to follow in her footsteps.
I started cosmetology school in February 2019, just one semester after graduating high school.
I went full time while working two jobs so I could graduate debt-free — something I’m still really proud of.
After finishing school that fall, I dedicated myself to building my presence on Instagram and getting my name out there, determined to start growing my clientele and make my mark in the beauty world.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Nothing worth having comes easy. The obstacles and challenges we face are often what shape our success and growth the most. Through my own journey, I’ve learned that success doesn’t look the same for everyone — and that’s what makes it so personal and meaningful.
Figuring out what success means to *you* is one of the best ways to truly show up for yourself and your clients. It’s different for everyone, and that’s okay. What matters most is staying grounded and remembering not to pour from an empty cup — taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of others.
There’s so much to learn in this industry, and it goes far beyond color formulation, blow-drying, or washing hair. Yes, those technical skills are important, but the real growth often comes from learning about people — understanding their needs, setting boundaries, charging your worth, and showing up as your best self even on the days when it’s not easy.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
In this area of DFW, I’m best known for creating beautifully blended, low-maintenance color — especially for clients with naturally darker hair. While I love working with all hair types and shades, being Latina with dark hair myself has given me a deep understanding of how to enhance and care for darker pigmented hair in a way that looks effortless and natural.
I’ve always been drawn to low-maintenance beauty. Personally, I don’t want to be in the salon every four weeks for color touch-ups, and I know many of my clients feel the same. There’s something so captivating about “lived-in” color — the way it grows out seamlessly and stays beautiful between visits.
What I’m most proud of, though, is the environment I’ve built behind the chair. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where clients can truly be themselves — whether they want to chat, unwind, or simply exist in peace for a while. I think that if I do nothing else on this earth than make people feel a little more loved and beautiful in a time where they maybe felt alone then I’ve served my purpose well.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Time and patience are truly your best friends in this industry. Rome wasn’t built in a day — and neither is your clientele. Building skill, confidence, and trust with your clients takes time and consistency. Every appointment, every mistake, and every success teaches you something new. Growth in this field doesn’t happen overnight, but it’s always worth the wait.
There will be moments when things feel hard or progress seems slow, but don’t give up. As long as you’re showing up, putting in the work, and doing your best — that’s what truly matters.
And remember: you are the professional. It’s so important to learn how to communicate clearly and confidently with your clients — about their service, expectations, maintenance, and cost. Open and honest conversations build trust and understanding on both sides, leading to better experiences and long-term relationships.
That’s something I wish I had learned sooner.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreadoesmyhair
