Hidden Gems: Meet Josie Napenas of Hair and Makeup by Josie

Today we’d like to introduce you to Josie Napenas

Hi Josie, 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?
I’ve always been drawn to hairstyling, maybe because I grew up with boy-short hair or the notorious ’80s bowl cut. I envied my friends with long locks, admiring how they could style it in ways I couldn’t with my own. Once I got my first Cabbage Patch Kid, I became obsessed with experimenting on her silky, synthetic red tresses, though most of the styles were just variations of braids.

Along with my fascination with hair was my penchant for makeup. I remember sneaking into my mom’s makeup bag as a child and painting my face with the wide array of colors I had at my fingertips. Since I wasn’t allowed to wear makeup, I cherished the brief moments I had with it on before washing it all off.

Perhaps not being able to do anything creative with my short hair or wear the rainbow on my face deterred me from pursuing my childhood dream – that and my parents’ expectation for me to earn my college degree and work in Corporate America. After spending 10 years working behind an office desk, I decided to take a leap of faith and follow my true passion. So here I am, doing what I absolutely love and having a blast!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not all chosen paths are smooth from the start. Growth and improvement in our craft require time, practice, and a relentless desire to keep learning. Even after 15 years of experience in the industry, I still have days when achieving a particular look on a client can be challenging, and it’s easy to feel discouraged. However, rather than dwelling on the setbacks, I embrace my mistakes and seek to overcome them through continued education.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Hair and Makeup by Josie?
I recently opened my own salon suite, transitioning from being a commissioned stylist to becoming my own boss, and I love it!

I understand the value of a low-maintenance look that doesn’t compromise on style. My goal is to enhance clients’ natural beauty in a relaxed, comfortable environment where they can be themselves, leaving them feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and confident. I value building a strong partnership with my clients, working together as a team to achieve our shared goals.

I enjoy the art of hair cutting, whether it’s short or long, and take great care in customizing each cut to suit the individual’s unique style. I also enjoy the art of lived-in color, painting sun-kissed hues to naturally illuminate beautiful tresses, adding a touch of effortless radiance to a client’s look.

I strive to create solutions that perfectly fit each client’s lifestyle while prioritizing the long-term health and beauty of their hair, extending well beyond their salon visit.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I wouldn’t call it luck, but I do believe that everything happens for a reason, and when one door closes, another one is always waiting to be opened.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.hairandmakeupbyjosie.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hairandmakeupbyjosie

Image Credits
Montana Dennis
Alex Rosenkreuz
Alizee Lutz