Conversations with Erick Orellana

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erick Orellana

Hi Erick, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born and raised in East Los Angeles a son of immigrant parents from Mexico City and El Salvador. During high school I started to play a bit with my friends hair. Eventually it became a little side hustle to other school mates. This gave me a little cash for some small things and practice for what would become my future job. Being good at it was not just enough, so I decide to go to beauty school. It took me a few tries since I left my home at a very early age of 14. So survival was a must with just odd jobs here and there. Finally in my 20s I finished beauty school and between getting my license go a job at a salon as a receptionist. These ladies gave me something different and wonderful to aspire too and I pursued it. Finally after a few apprenticeships in mid range salons, it was not enough for me. I wanted to be only in the best salon in LA. And that was the celebrity frequented John Frieda Salon on Melrose place. I landed a job as an assistant to a celebrity colorist which prepared me for my future as a celebrity colorist myself in Hollywood and Beverly Hills.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Many bumps on the road have come about, alongside coming from a latino family where “just enough to pay your bills” is enough. I had to push through many hardships and lessons in the industry. Being in the ever changing salon industry in this town is hard, But also very rewarding when the good is good. I am grateful for these lessons that still continue now even at 15+years in the business.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Color Specialist and Color Correction is my jam. I work a lot with brunettes to achieve many different natural looking hues desired along with my basic maintenance blonde clients. Color corrections are so unique in the way I deal with them. I am efficient, always have a plan, and can maintain the hair condition healthy no matter what is asked of me. Whether it is for a regular client, a celebrity, or even film and TV.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I think the best way to support anyone in their skills is by appreciating them. I am huge on giving back to the community wether by giving time, services, or teaching any way to people who may need it or may not be able to afford it, or at times through a women’s empowering organization. Everyone deserves to feel beautiful, and that is the most empowering and fulfilling feeling to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.erickorellana.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erickohair/?hl=en