Rising Stars: Meet Ilona Roytman of Westchester

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ilona Roytman

Hi Ilona, 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?
I’ve been passionate about hairstyling since I was six years old. Even as a child, I dreamed of helping people feel confident and comfortable in the way they look and feel. For 29 years, I lived in San Francisco, where I built my own boutique salon in the heart of the city. It was an incredible journey, but my passion eventually led me to Los Angeles to pursue a career in production and private styling.

In LA, I started a small studio that offers a cozy, welcoming environment where clients can feel completely at home. I also travel to style families in the privacy of their homes and continue visiting San Francisco every month to see my VIP clients or fly to other cities upon request. Additionally, I work on film and TV productions, bringing my expertise to on-screen transformations.

I’ve now been in Los Angeles for seven years and couldn’t be more thrilled about what I’ve built here. My chair is not just a place for styling—it’s where transformation happens, not only in my clients’ appearance but also in their hearts. Helping people feel empowered and confident through their style is what I’m most passionate about, and I feel so grateful to do what I love every single day

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey to where I am today hasn’t been an easy road, but it’s been deeply rewarding. In 2017, I made the tough decision to give up my business in San Francisco and start over. I spent a year in school studying makeup and production while fully supporting myself. During that time, I also worked as an intern, gaining invaluable experience that eventually led to opportunities on high-profile production sets.

Then came the pandemic, which brought everything to a halt. However, I was blessed to join a leadership program during that time. Through breakthrough training and serving as a coach for a couple of years, I discovered another passion: helping people worldwide find their true essence and supporting them in their transformation.

Now, as we step into 2024, I am proud to say that my business is thriving again. I’ve built a strong new client base, focusing heavily on hair extensions—a specialty I’m incredibly passionate about. Transforming people’s lives through extensions has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. It’s an amazing feeling to give someone confidence by creating a natural, beautiful style, especially for those who may feel insecure about their hair.

Looking back, the challenges were stepping stones to growth, and I’m grateful for the journey that has brought me here.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?

I am a transformational hairstylist and makeup artist with a passion for bringing out the best in people—inside and out. What sets me apart from other stylists is my ability to see clients for who they truly are, helping them embrace their authentic selves through tailored styles that inspire confidence and comfort.

I specialize in a range of services, including fine-tuning curly hair, creating timeless bobs, and crafting flawless hair extensions, which are my ultimate specialty. My favorite aspect of my work is delivering full makeovers—transforming my clients not just externally, but also boosting their inner self-esteem. I love creating goddesses by transforming women into the most radiant, empowered versions of themselves.

One of the greatest honors of my career is the loyalty of my clients, many of whom fly me to their locations because they value the personalized touch and care I bring to every transformation.

Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My most vivid childhood memory was tricking my mom into cutting my hair unevenly so she would have to take me to the salon, where I could happily spend the entire day.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ilonarstyle.com. www.ilonar.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ilonafabulosa/profilecard/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ilonafabulosa?mibextid=JRoKGi
• Other: IlonaR Style (415) 710-7156