Life & Work with Toni Martinez of Orange County

Today we’d like to introduce you to Toni Martinez.

Hi Toni, 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?
Both of my parents are in the beauty industry. My father, (who passed in 2012) was a barber and also went to beauty school. My mother is a cosmetologist. They owned multiple salons, so I grew up in a salon. When I was little, I would go with them for the day. I remember watching them style hair and I knew exactly what I wanted to do when I grew up! In 2001 I graduated high school and started at Golden West College which is where I wanted to attend for beauty school. At the time, they had a 2 year waiting list. The next year I got into the program. I completely it and got my license in 2004. I immediately started working at a salon in Newport Beach. I worked in a salon for about 3 years before I found my love for special event hair styling. I got married during that time and had my first child in 2007. When he was just around 8 months old, I started getting the itch to style hair, but only style, not cut or color. I found this company that went out to brides on their wedding day to do hair and makeup services. I thought that was the coolest thing in the world. I started with that company and worked with many others as a freelance hairstylist for many years. I decided to to also get certified as a makeup artist as well. My journey as a freelance stylist has taken me many places. I’ve done makeup and a hair for TV show, traveled and have also contributed my services to people in need. I was always taught to give back when I’m able to. Which in return has brought me so much compassion for others. In this ever changing industry, I’m constantly learning new trends which never gets boring. Its not a job when you love what you do!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The obstacles that I have faced would be financially not being able to support my family full time. Especially during covid. I went from having weddings every weekend to nothing at all for over a year. To not be able to work with people in person was very tough.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I style hair for special events. 80% of my work is bridal. I’m currently not working on set, but I have worked on celebrity wedding planner David Tutera’s show My Fair Wedding as a makeup artist and hairstylist. In also have styled for Disney photoshoots.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I follow many other hairstylists on social media. I feel like we all can learn from each other. But sharing tips and tricks from my friends in the industry, is where I gain the most knowledge. We support each other endlessly. This industry is very competitive, but my group is only positive. We feel like there is enough of that in the world, so lifting each other up and showing each other love and support is what we do.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alldolledupbytoni