Check Out Aiprll Patino’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Aiprll Patino.

Hi Aiprll, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was working as an Executive Assistant in Menlo Park during the 2008 economic crash and ended up getting laid off. I had worked in makeup at Nordstrom years before so I enrolled in cosmetology school to make a career switch to hair, knowing I could cocktail both skills. I started later in life, in my 30s, but never looked back. Starting this trade older made me appreciate my career more and I love the creativity and flexibility that comes with this. I’ve had the opportunity to work on a variety of things: photoshoots, weddings, corporate headshots, galas, etc. I work behind the chair 2 days a week and then freelance.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Building a clientele is always a struggle in the beginning, and once established, a move can mean starting from square one. Eleven years ago I moved from the Bay Area (just outside San Francisco) to Orange County, and that was a rebuild to my career. Landing at the right salon is crucial too. That doesn’t always happen on the 1st try, and sometimes you invest months or even years and look back and think, ‘Why didn’t I leave a long time ago?’ Like anything, you get comfortable, but realize maybe you’re not being challenged or there is little room for growth. Knowing when to hold and when to fold can be tricky because the emotional and time investment is huge. You’re not punching a time clock.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Hairstylist and Makeup Artist. I cut and color hair, I blonde women up, I tame their hair with Keratin Treatments, I do their makeup. I make housecalls, hotel calls, I work on location for photoshoots and weddings and I work behind the chair at a salon.
I’m known for my coloring skills (that’s what I specialized in when starting my career) and also for my makeup skills. That said, my passion for cutting has been reignited. I listen to my clients and care deeply about the outcome. I believe in giving and doing my best and I love connecting with people.

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success is supporting yourself while being happy. It’s not just a dollar amount. It’s about being as busy as you need to be to live life, while keeping that fire alive. It’s about liking what you do and not feeling like work is drudgery. Fortunately I still love my work and I support myself part-time while having outside endeavors., so In my eyes I’m successful.

Pricing:

• Haircuts: $80
• Partial Highlights: $175
• Keratin Treatments: $250
• Men’s Haircuts: $60
• Makeup: $110

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.aiprll.com
• Instagram: aiprll_hmua
• Facebook: Hair and Makeup by Aiprll