Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Vuola.
Hi Ashley, 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?
For as long as I can imagine, I have always been fascinated by everything surrounding the beauty industry. From destroying my Moms MAC lipstick as a child, painting my nails and getting nail polish all over my skin, to doing my friend’s hair for high school events, I always knew the beauty industry was something I had a passion for. In high school, cosmetology school never really seemed like an option. The way people described it made seem like you only go there if you don’t know what you’re doing with your life, and aren’t ready for a career. For that reason, I always pushed cosmetology school to the side and forced myself to think of a major I was interested in. Moving forward to my senior year in 2019, my school experienced a tragic school shooting. From this point on, I got a huge reality check and realized it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks about my future, it is only important for me.
Through this tragedy, I found myself yearning to do my hair, makeup, and nails as a coping mechanism/distraction, and it truly helped me. It was from that point that I realized I really want to be in this career. If just doing my own services on myself made me feel so much better, I can’t even imagine what it would be like doing it for other people. I love to make people feel good, and that’s what this industry is all about. After dealing with COVID in 2020 and graduating high school via my car. I knew it was now or never to start my career. In November 2020, I started my schooling at Paul Mitchell The School Sherman Oaks and was enrolled to be done 11 months later. I enjoyed every bit of my education and soaked in every moment. I graduated early and passed my license the first time. Ever since getting licensed, I have been taking both hair and nail clients consistently, and I’m loving every minute of it! Seeing the reaction on people’s faces after I’m done with their service is truly an indescribable feeling. This industry has so much potential for growth and experience, and I feel extremely lucky to be a part of it!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Like anything in life, nothing comes easy. The most prominent struggle I faced thus far is starting off my cosmetology journey on Zoom. My teachers were amazing and responsive, however, cosmetology is an extremely hands-on career. When your only experience is via the computer, it can feel extremely frustrating and confusing to know if this is right for you or if you’re doing the right thing. Luckily, we went off of Zoom after about 6 weeks, and it was smooth sailing from that point on, but it was definitely a challenge starting off with online education.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in both hair and nail services. When it comes to hair, I love anything! From blonding services to haircuts for both men and women to bright vivid colors, I’m here for it all! When it comes to nails, I specialize in a technique called GelX, which is a safer alternative to acrylics! I love putting designs on people’s nails and make them feel creative through their ideas and being able to execute it for them. I am most proud of my resilience and ability to keep trying until I’m proud of my work; I won’t send a client home unhappy. It is my goal to meet and even exceed their expectations, so I will always keep trying until I’ve met that level. Something I believe that sets me apart is the fact that I offer both services to the public. I’ve been told it’s not smart to do both hair and nails and that I need to choose one, however, I’ve found not only success but extreme joy in doing both! I think it’s amazing that I can be someone’s One Stop Shop for all their beauty needs!
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Instagram and Youtube have been a huge part of my education and learning more about this career. You can find any answer you need by the click of a button, and you’re always met with an array of answers from different talented individuals from all over the world. There is so much room for growth and social media showcases all of it!
Pricing:
- Full Set of GelX- 45+
- Highlights- 75+
- Haircut- 45
- Basic Manicure- 45+
- Basic Color- 65+
Contact Info:
- Instagram: ashleyscosmocorner
Image Credits
Paul Mitchell The School Sherman Oaks
