Age: 32
Occupation: Hair Stylist and
co-founder of Hair Candy NZ
On finding her love for hair and navigating the creative world…
Where did the love for hair begin?
I have had a love for hair and the industry from a young age. Both my parents are incredible hairdressers and have owned their own salon for nearly 40 years. I grew up admiring their amazing work as they did hair fashion shows all over the world, worked on amazing photoshoots and had a creative space in their salon. As much as I didn’t see this as the path for myself from a young age (that came later), I always loved the creative side of hairdressing and have always been inspired by the incredible hair my parents do. This meant I started cutting my friends' hair for fun from a young age!
What does the feeling of self-expression through hair and having your hair styled mean to you?
To me if my hair isn’t looking right I feel like my whole look isn’t quite right! It’s amazing the confidence you feel when your hair is styled. It’s an extension of your personality and creativity just as fashion and makeup can be. Having a cut and colour specific to you is really fun to play around with along with your overall style!
Being in the creative industry, has the tall poppy syndrome culture of NZ ever affected you?
I feel blessed to be surrounded by my family who have always encouraged me to be myself and that being unique is cool. My Mum, Dad and brother, Blue have paved the way for me with this as my whole family have their own sense of fashion and style, which I feel allows me to be confident in who I am and encourages me to step out with exploring that further. I have definitely come across tall poppy syndrome over the years. Unfortunately I think it’s everywhere you go. It’s just a reminder that it’s a reflection on the person and them projecting themselves onto you, but I have always chosen to surround myself with supportive and genuine people who are an amazing support to me as much as I hope I am to them too. I love when people around me are succeeding and doing well at what they love. It’s inspiring and uplifting to be surrounded by people doing their thing.
Hair, hair hair - what are the secrets…
What’s one piece of hair advice, you wish people would stop doing and one piece of hair advice you wish people would start doing?
DON’T: I wish blondes wouldn’t over use purple shampoo, it dulls down your fresh blonde if it’s used too often!
DO: I wish people would start using natural ingredient products that genuinely repair your hair, such as Hair Candy!
Your favourite comfort hairstyle with a claw clip?
I love a messy French roll looking up do with a claw clip! It’s easy and relaxed but still looks like you have made an effort.
Something you live by…
Comparison is the biggest thief of joy.
And last but not least, favourite Buttermilk accessory?
I love the buttermilk claw clips! I use them all the time. I often have them in my hand bag ready to go as they are not only cute but practical. My favourite would have to be the Rebekah in Matcha Latte x
