Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayla Casey.
Hi Kayla, 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?
My name is Kayla Casey; I’m originally from Boston, MA, and have now living in Los Angeles for the past 6 years. I have been a licensed Cosmetologist for 11 years now. Ever since I was 13, I knew I wanted to be a hairstylist. From monthly visits to the salon with my mother to playing with my friend’s hair, it became my passion. Lucky enough, my local High School had a trade program, so I was able to start cosmetology school at 16 and graduate with my license at 18. While in school, I had a receptionist position at a nearby salon that was fast-paced and haircut-focused. There, I was able to gain knowledge from my peers, take additional classes and graduate to the floor once I had my license. After working there for 3 years, mostly cutting, I relocated to a full-service salon where I offered services including color, cut, and extensions. After maintaining a full clientele for 5 years there, I felt as though I needed to challenge myself and further my skillset and creativity – so I moved to Los Angeles at 23.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Starting over was a big challenge for me. Leaving my family and clients in Boston was a big decision to make, but I knew it would be the best decision I would ever make for myself. But my biggest obstacle and challenge has been losing my parents. My mother passed the day I started on the floor as a hairstylist, from that moment on I knew I had to make her proud. Then 7 Years later I lost my father to cancer. In 2020. My parents were my number one supporters and pushed me to become a hairstylist. They are the fuel that drives me to fulfill my dreams. They guide me through any fear I face.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
After moving to LA, I quickly stumbled upon a Craigslist ad put out by celebrity hair colorist, now mentor, Daniel Moon, looking for an assistant at his newly opened salon called HAIR Los Angeles. I worked underneath Daniel for two years before graduating to a chair of my own. Quickly, I was able to build up a clientele while testing with other creatives to build up a portfolio. I then was to get on assistant rosters at agencies, which introduced me to working on set, and I fell in love. As my experience grew in Los Angeles, I started to branch out to New York and assist during Fashion Week. As I focus on color in Los Angeles, I’ve had the opportunity of working with some of my favorite artists including Kali Uchis, Usher, and Miguel. Currently, while coming up on my 6 years at HAIR Los Angeles, I recently started my journey educating, which I look forward to growing this year.
What are your plans for the future?
In the future, I plan to keep growing with my family at HAIR and as a creative. I’m looking forward to getting more into educating and to keep pushing myself to exceed any limits I’ve set for myself in past.
Contact Info:
- Website: HAIRlosangeles.com
- Instagram: @kaylacasee
Image Credits
@craigmcdeanstudio
@paridukovic
@normanjeanroy
