Today we’d like to introduce you to Valerie Chavez.
Valerie, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
At a young age I was always drawn to glamor and beauty I was such a girly girl even though I grew up with all boys. Around high school is when I knew I wanted to be in the hair industry, soon after I graduated, I was in beauty school. The first salon I worked at was the Kevin Charles salon at the Biltmore four seasons in Montecito. That’s where I got my love for the high-end salon experience. I started to move my way to LA where I was first assistant to Art Luna at Art Luna salon in Santa Monica. Working with Art is what Essentially molded me as the colorist and business owner that I am today. My highest moment is when I did Angelica Houston’s hair for the Oscars. I had a few more very influential people in my career Laini Reeves celebrity stylist and James Kendall owner of James Kendall salon in Beverly Hills. All meanwhile I’m working for Allie Webb owner of Drybar in West Hollywood (best group of hairdressers ever!) the best memories. Allie is truly inspirational. I have always been a hustler working since I was 15 my first job ever at Macy’s. I never stopped my drive… I decided to move back to my hometown in Ventura county where I started my journey into having my own business. I’m so grateful to all the amazing talented hair dressers I was able to work beside I’ve been blessed with a great career.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It wasn’t an easy road it took a lot of hard work and dedication. When I worked for Art Luna, I remember sometimes feeling defeated but I never let that affect my work Art was tough and he never let up for that I am forever grateful he pushed me to be where I am today in my career. I was Working 7 days a week If I wasn’t working full time in a Salon building my clientele, I was working at the drybar or doing housecalls and going to industry events. I Will always be a hard worker and evolve in my craft. For my clients I will always keep up on the trends and continue my education to be the best I can be.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Val.hair studio – what should we know?
I started Val.hair studio about 3 years ago. I specialize in color/balayage And Extensions. I do the keratin, beaded, tape in extensions. I just got certified to do the habit hand tied extensions. I’m known for my blondes. I am most proud of my loyal clients I am Humbled that they follow me where ever I go. They inspire me every day.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I owe a huge thank you to Art Luna my best lessons and experiences were when I worked with him. He was a huge influence in my career. Laini Reeves such a beautiful person. her drive as a business owner her hustler mentality and her talent as an artist is so inspiring. She was an amazing mentor to me I was lucky to have worked with her.
My proudest moment was giving my son Kash his first haircut seeing him sit in my chair showed me everything I worked for in my career was for him.
Pricing:
- Balayage starts at $150
- Extensions price varies
Contact Info:
- Address: 1730 S Victoria Ave
Ventura, CA.93003 - Website: https://squareup.com/appointments/book/DXVZ2CN29X178
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @valchavezhair
Image Credit:
Mari Lopez Photography
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