Meet Kayla Strack | Independent Hairstylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kayla Strack and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kayla, why did you pursue a creative career?
I have always had a creative mind. I knew I couldn’t do something that I would get bored of. This industry is hard! Not just in the sense of everything you learn in school and with experience, but turning it into a career. There are so many obstacles to overcome. Having the ability to gain and retain clients, stay up to date on trends, be competitive with prices while still making a living and so much more. There’s salons and stylists everywhere. To make it you have to be willing to be patient, committed, eager and work your butt off! It is always a challenge, every client is different and being able to create a look for an individual is truly art.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have been a hairstylist for 10 years now. Nine of those years were in Illinois but last year made a big move to Arizona. There have been plenty of times where I wanted to give up. Not because I lost interest or the passion but because I’ve had to work more than one job and it takes time to get where you want to be. In this industry you need to continuously work. Whether its retaining clientele or building. Moving across the country was difficult, I had to start from scratch all over again. I am not giving up though. The best thing about what I do is making someone feel better about themselves! No matter if its their wedding day, complete hair change or just a bad day and they feel better after, it is my way of helping someone else.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I live in Lake Havasu City, AZ so there is always something to do! From seeing the London Bridge, boating on the Lake, Off Roading to Bunker Bar, and hiking it is never boring! I love Arizona because we are a driving distance to the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, Vegas, Phoenix, Spring Training for baseball. Being in the middle of the desert with a beautiful lake is an incredible thing.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My Shoutout is to my husband, family, friends and clients! My husband is my biggest fan and supporter. He also has his own business and works harder than anyone I have ever met, it is so admirable the work he puts in.

My family has always been very close. My parents always encouraged my sister, brother and I to follow our dreams and taught us to have a strong work ethic. I strive everyday in work and life to make them all proud.

I learned the most from my sister who is also a hairstylist. She taught me more about the industry than anyone! We have worked together and it was amazing to have someone so experienced and helpful by my side. Having a strong support system is key in life. My clients make my career possible!

Instagram: @beautybykayla9119

Facebook: Beauty By Kayla Strack

Image Credits
Photos taken at Jaded Beauty Salon Studio