Today we’d like to introduce you to Tara Copeland.
Tara, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I got started at Dudley’s Cosmetology school located in Kernersville, NC. in 1995. I started freelancing in Atlanta and New York around 1998 for a bigger market with my craft. After I that I was told I needed to have a portfolio to showcase my work for me to work in the industry with celebrities and television. So my first assignment was with Bradley Curry Management in New York to start building my book. I assisted on many editorials there for about a week and after I got my feel for it I decided to go to LA in 2000. I made connections with agencies and found myself working in a salon (taking the state board test for California to work).
Has it been a smooth road?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. Being able to connect with the right people, testing all the time to get the right photo to display your work, and sometimes you’re working all day in exchange for building your portfolio for free. You might get a little something in exchange but back then everyone was building a better portfolio.
Any predictions for the industry over the next few years?
I see more exotic fun colors, bigger hair, and more naturals
Has there been a particular challenge that you’ve faced over the years?
Being able to keep up with new technology! The internet always has something new going in! Lol whether it’s a new app for color, using social media to advertise, learning a new software..you have to put the time aside to do the paperwork and keep up with the social waves.
What would you tell someone who is just starting out?
Find a mentor. Having a mentor is great in this field. Someone you can learn from and teach you the important things revolving around this business. You can do it all by yourself. Get with someone who will bring the best out in you and keep you on your toes.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.taracopeland.com
- Phone: 310-422-8532
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: misscopeland310
- Facebook: Tara Copeland
- Other: My blog: Arta Chic www.artachic.com This blog is about my journey including beauty and travel tips
