Today we’d like to introduce you to Leo Valentino Stokes.
Hi Leo Valentino, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I went to beauty school right after high school, upon my mother’s request. The idea of touching people’s hair truthfully grossed me out, but she thought I’d have an act for it. On day one, they had us cutting hair on a mannequin and I fell in love! (Mothers’ know best) I haven’t looked back since! In beauty school, I specifically fell in love with the actual styling part of the industry and developed much of my skills working at The Drybar. After almost nine years of being with The Drybar Company, I finally took the leap and tried my chances at being a freelance artist, working house calls, weddings, shoots, and special events. I am now two years in and I can honestly say my career as a freelance artist is really blossoming into something I could have never imagined! I wake up each and every day sooo grateful for the opportunities that have come my way and for the very special connections I have made through my journey.
The future is bright, and I’m ready for it. Los Angeles is gonna know the name Leo Valentino.
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?
I wouldn’t say getting to where I am has been a challenge, though it has been a tremendous amount of work! I have put my absolute all into my career, but every step of the way has felt rewarding. My ambition drives me to constantly step out of my comfort zone and accept opportunities that are presented to me.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I aim for my work to be…clean, bold, and timeless! I often take inspiration from old Hollywood glamour icons, like the obvious, Marilyn Monroe, Lauren Bacall, and Sophia Loren. I also love taking my own twist on trends throughout the decades. But big hair is always my favorite… the bigger, the better, haha.
What makes you happy?
Happiness makes me Happy. Seeing a client’s reaction to a hairstyle that I have created for them is such a pleasure. I am a People Pleaser, which I feel ignites my passion for doing hair and creating something both beautiful and memorable.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://leo-valentinohair.pixieset.com/lvh/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leovalentinohair/?hl=en
Image Credits:
Madelene Lisella Malik Daniels Mark Hill Naomi Yura Joseph Ford Rylee Sellers Keltie Straith Emelina Adams Dion Xu Sang Jeon Alex Jairus Valerie loo Chloe Yu Bryan Mendez Savannah Mar’i
