Life & Work with Karina Rauda-Samarelli of Valencia,CA

Today we’d like to introduce you to Karina Rauda-Samarelli.

Hi Karina, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Thank you so much for reaching out—and a big thank you to Ashlo and Sandra for the kind referral! I’d be honored to be considered for your Inspiring Stories series.

My journey in beauty began in the fast-paced salons of Beverly Hills, where I had the privilege of working alongside some of the most talented professionals in the industry. Over the years, I’ve built a reputation not only for precision in color and cuts, but for creating an experience that leaves people feeling truly cared for.

My career has taken me far beyond the salon chair—I’ve traveled the world with celebrities and musicians, supporting entertainment tours for U.S. Air Force troops in countries like Bosnia, Turkey, and Germany. I’ve also spent time in Las Vegas offering hair and makeup services for celebrity events and weddings, always bringing calm, creativity, and professionalism to high-pressure moments.

After years of working in the spotlight, I felt called to create a space of my own—something more personal, peaceful, and grounded. That vision became Salon Studio III, my private studio located in Valencia, California. For over 10 years now, it’s been my little sanctuary—a space where each client gets my full attention in a quiet, welcoming environment. It’s beautifully designed, always clean and serene, and best of all—there’s never an issue with parking.

Located at:
Salon Studio III
28271 Newhall Ranch Road, Suite #17
Valencia, CA 91355

My specialties are luxe, dimensional color and precision, face-framing cuts—crafted to enhance your natural beauty and personal style. Whether it’s sun-kissed balayage, rich brunettes, or edgy transformations, I blend technical expertise with an artist’s eye to create looks that are effortlessly stunning and uniquely you. My goal is always to elevate the entire salon experience—from the first consultation to that final head-turning reveal.

Clients regularly leave glowing reviews—not just for the results, but for how they feel when they walk out the door. That’s the part that means the most to me.

I’d love the opportunity to share more with your readers and hopefully inspire others who are walking their own creative path.

Warmly,
Karina

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It was a challenge, being a single mom of 3 girls having to work 2 jobs then going to cosmetology school part time Monday to Friday. My hands were full.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a people’s person I love people!! My passion for my career began when I was very young maybe 7th grade. I was the hairdresser for all the neighborhood kids my sister & best friends. Then got my license & moved on to traveling doing what love. I worked in Beverly Hills for many years. Worked with some amazing professional hair stylists, that was so much fun. Now I specialize in color and cuts all different hair textures. Some clients call me Curly hair Queen! Ok I’ll take that as a compliment. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, it has only taken me 28yrs. Must say I’m truly blessed thanks to my Mom I was able to accomplish my dreams. Now for 10 yrs I have created an amazing very private, cozy & fun studio in the city of Valencia, California in Salon Studios III. I believe in my heart what sets me apart from others is My passion, honesty it’s not a job it’s my happy place and I want that happy place to be my clients happy place as well. I’m very honest with everyone that walks into my studio, i listen very closely my consultations are my interview with clients. I don’t double book it’s a one on one service. I want my clients to experience a VIP service & be pampered & walk out of my studio feeling amazing.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Never ever give up this is an amazing career not easy but rewarding. Find your specialty & run with it.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Karasa411