Today we’d like to introduce you to Bri Orozco.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve been doing hair for a little over 11 years but if I’m being honest, I didn’t start taking it seriously until about 5 years ago. The first few years, I was pretty much jumping around from salon to salon trying to fit in and find out where I would flourish. In 2010, I started working at a fast paced blow dry bar, seeing around 8-10 clients a day. I grew to love the styling and the relationships that I had started building with my clients who soon became my regulars. Coming in weekly to get a fabulous blowout and some much needed “me” time. Working there, showed me how a small thing (like getting a blowout) can change your whole demeanor and I loved that. I loved turning them around to the mirror and seeing their faces or hearing “my hair has never looked this good.” It was a rad feeling but after almost 5 years, the scheduled days and being there from this time to that time was getting to me. I needed a change, so I decided to leave salons all together and start freelancing. It was a bit challenging and definitely a bit scary but it’s what I wanted to do and I absolutely had to make it work. I was very grateful that some of my clients came with me when I left and I began seeing them on a weekly basis at their homes. Good hair travels fast and I then started seeing their friends who referred me to their friends. It was really awesome. Now, I mainly do photoshoot styling and work with wonderful photographers. I still see some of my regulars but about 90% of my work is done with photographers. I’m actually in Italy right now for a work trip. Traveling to another country and doing hair had been on my list for a while. It’s just crazy how its actually happening.
Has it been a smooth road?
It wasn’t the easiest thing (going freelance). There were definitely times when I didn’t have clients (no clients, no money!) and wondered if I had made the right choice by leaving the salon but the freedom and variety are what kept me going. I wouldn’t have gone freelance right out of school. I’d say assist and get some real salon experience, find somewhere that speaks to you. If you don’t see room for growth or you aren’t feeling inspired by the people around you, leave! There’s a place for all of us. Sometimes, it just takes a bit longer to find than others.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with bri oro hair – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I specialize in styling (editorial, photoshoot, and event). I’m known for my light and “airy” or windblown hair, which makes for fantastic photos. When I’m not on shoots the styling for my everyday client can range from polished and perfected to natural “second-day hair.”
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
Networking was a little bit of a challenge for me. I tend to be very introverted and being in large groups of people can be somewhat overwhelming. Which is why social media now is so important for creatives in general. It provides a platform to showcase what you do and helps connect you with people who are interested in the work that you’re showing.
Pricing:
- at home hair services start at $75
Contact Info:
- Website: www.briorohair.com
- Instagram: @bri_oro
Image Credit:
carly brown photography, sue bryce, felix kunze
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