local storiesSeptember 2, 2025

An Inspired Chat with Doug O’Connell of Brea, CA

Local Stories

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Doug O’Connell. Check out our conversation below.

Doug, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about your customers?
The most surprising thing I’ve learned about my customers is how deeply personal their hair journey is—and how much trust they place in me to be part of it. What starts as a routine appointment often turns into something much more meaningful. Whether it’s a color transformation to mark a new chapter or extensions that give them confidence after hair loss, I’ve realized I’m not just changing hair—I’m helping people feel like the best version of themselves. That level of vulnerability and connection has been both surprising and incredibly rewarding.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Doug O’Connell, a hair colorist and extension specialist based in Orange County. I specialize in lived-in blondes, dimensional balayage, and custom extension transformations that feel effortless and elevated. My approach is all about blending technique with artistry—creating hair that not only looks amazing in the salon, but grows out beautifully and works with your lifestyle.

What sets my brand apart is the experience I create behind the chair. It’s personal, customized, and rooted in real connection. I want every client to feel seen, taken care of, and confident when they walk out my door. I also love staying on the edge of innovation—whether that’s testing the best tools and products or sharing educational tips on social to help both stylists and clients get better results.

Right now, I’m working on expanding my content and finding new ways to share what I’ve learned—whether that’s through online education, collaborations, or just continuing to build a community that values great hair and even better vibes. It’s been a wild ride, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
I’ve been lucky to learn from a lot of incredible people throughout my journey. My parents definitely taught me the foundation—hard work, consistency, and showing up even when it’s tough. They led by example, and that work ethic is something I carry with me every day behind the chair.

My teachers played a huge role too—especially the ones who saw potential in me early on and pushed me to think bigger and take pride in my craft. And of course, the salon owners I’ve worked under have each shaped me in their own way. I’ve learned how to run a business, how to build relationships with clients, and how to keep evolving in an industry that never stops changing.

Every step—from sweeping floors to leading my own brand—has been influenced by people who believed in me, challenged me, and helped me grow.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be this: You don’t have to have it all figured out right now. You’re not behind, you’re just getting started—and everything you’re worried about will make sense in time. The things that make you feel different or unsure of yourself right now? One day, those will be the exact things that set you apart in the best way.

There will be moments where you’ll doubt yourself, feel overwhelmed, or wonder if you’re on the right path. But keep showing up, keep creating, and keep learning—because you’re building something that’s truly yours, and it’s going to make people feel seen, beautiful, and confident.

Give yourself more credit, and don’t be so hard on yourself. You’re capable of more than you know—and the future you is proud of you for staying true to who you are, even when it wasn’t the easiest thing to do.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would probably say that what matters most to me is making people feel confident, seen, and cared for. I pour a lot of passion into my work because I genuinely love helping others express themselves and feel their best. They’d also say I value deep connections, personal growth, and creativity — I’m always pushing myself to evolve, whether it’s in my craft or in life. And while I take my work seriously, I also believe in having fun, making memories, and showing up for the people who matter.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’m doing what I was born to do. It might’ve taken some time, trial and error, and a few detours to get here, but the moment I started working in this industry, I felt it click. No one had to convince me—this work just fit. It lets me be creative, connect with people, and constantly evolve, which are all things that truly light me up. I wasn’t following a script or doing what someone else expected of me—I was following what felt right. And I still am.

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