What took you from hairstyling in the states to working in Paris? What are some advantages and what are some disadvantages?
It was my dream to work and live in Paris as a hairstylist. I tried for a decade to come here because I was determined and focused, but no opportunity presented itself. I’ve lived in San Francisco, New York and Hawaii, and Paris was next on my list. Finally, the opportunity came! I was in Paris last year for Fashion week. I bought 12 resumes with me, walked around Paris and visited salons. The last salon, Salon Marisol, was impressed with my resume and asked me to bring in 3 models. I scoured the streets looking for models and was successful. At the end of my “test”, the owner and I discussed start date, and for us to start the visa process. I almost had a heart attack because I couldn’t believe it. I’m truly grateful to be living my dream!
Image via : Katie Lee
When did you know you wanted to come to Paris? Did you fall into this step naturally or was it a goal you set out to achieve?
I knew I wanted to come for decades and I was laser-focused on getting here! I can’t take no for answer, but it had to be the right time, and I couldn’t force it. When it did happen, it was as if the universe rolled out a red carpet for me. It was a smooth process.
Can you tell us a little about your creative process? How do you go about developing an idea and turning it into a project with your medium? Finally, do you have any exciting plans in the works? What’s next for you?
Each person that sits in my chair, the cut is tailored to their features. I’m not about trends. It’s about taking into account their lifestyle and what works with them. I like hair that has movement, and easy to style (or not). As for new projects, I plan to continue doing Paris fashion week because there are so many edgy and creative designers here not afraid to take risks. It’s very inspiring!
What is your favorite part about living here? What has been the most challenging aspect of living in Paris?
I love the vibe of Paris (it’s magical here!), the lifestyle and culture, the food, the fashion, the chance to improve my French, and the ease of traveling to another country for a weekend trip. The most challenging has been not having my husband here (yet), and the amount of paperwork needed to do anything. You must have a sense of humor to get through it. I also find the people (not all) are reserved, so at times it’s difficult to cultivate deep friendships, but once you win a French friend over, they will be friends for life. For me, I see the challenges as an adventure and a part of my journey. It can be frustrating at times, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
Image via: Katie Lee
Where’s your favorite place in Paris and why?
My favorite place right now is the Seine river. I used to live in Hawaii and I miss being by a body of water. It does something to your psyche. It clears my head, and watching the sunset, having a glass of wine isn’t a bad thing either!
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