Today we’d like to introduce you to Karina Vega Tulao. She was born to do hair and her portfolio is living testament to her skill and passion. She’s talented, dedicated and on her way to building a name for herself in LA’s competitive, fast-paced hair, beauty and fashion world.
Below, you’ll find edited excerpts of our interview with Karina.
Karina, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My family would say that I came out of the womb doing hair. You could always find me playing and styling hair. So after high school, it only made sense for me to go straight to cosmetology school. Soon after I spent 6 years in the salon assisting two of the most talented hairstylists. And after that I wanted to venture out and I began to freelance. This is where I found my passion. I’ve been very blessed to have the privilege to apprentice under some of the best hairdressers in the business such as Renato Campora, Jenny Cho, Richard Collins, Danilo Dixon, and others. I now key my own jobs and take salon clients out of my boutique salon space in West Hollywood on Saturdays.
Has it been a smooth road?
It’s been great so far, but it hasn’t always been a smooth road. I think it’s rare when it is and easy to take things for granted. I am firm believer that everything happens for a reason and am exactly where I should be at the moment. I know that I will continue to learn and grow in my career. I love what I do!
What are your plans for the future?
As of now my future plans are do great work that inspires people, push myself, and continue to learn. I’d love to travel more for work and hopefully one day have a product endorsement. I just want to make people feel beautiful and their best. It’s a great feeling!
Let’s dig a little deeper into your story. What was the hardest time you’ve had?
My hardest time/ years would have to be when I was transitioning from the salon to doing mainly focusing on freelance. I was assisting amazing session stylist but always being seen as only a salon stylist. I didn’t have a portfolio together or much time to devote to testing to building my book. I had to work in the salon to pay my bills. Eventually I made the decision to move to a small 2 chair space, that was a lot more affordable than renting a chair in a salon, and devote everyday expect Saturday’s to building my book. It was a financially stressful year since you don’t get paid for test but it has paid off. I couldn’t get booked on my own jobs, or taken seriously in the past without a proper portfolio and website. I’m very happy with how it turned out and will continue to devote my free time to making it better.
Pricing:
- $125.00 – $150.00 per hour
Contact Info:
- Instagram: KarinaVegaHair
- Website: www.karinavegastyle.com
Check out her work below:
