We are living in a time where “natural” is “in”. People are embracing their bodies, natural makeup, natural hair texture and color. Let me tell you, I am SUCH a fan! Growing up I was fascinated by everything makeup and hair. One of my earliest memories is getting in trouble at Kohl’s because I opened up a makeup package when my mom wasn’t looking. I was obsessed. My mom thought it wise to allow us to wear makeup when we turned 16, only lightly, and at the time that was frustrating. We all remember high school, braces, acne, boys and wanting to be more grown up than we were. I was the *only* 16-year-old who couldn’t wear makeup. Looking back now, 10 years later, I can appreciate what my mom did for us. What I didn’t realize (and she may not either) is that she was teaching me to be confident in myself, teaching me that looks are only a surface factor and to be comfortable in my own skin. Acne is natural, covering it up can tend to make it worse and let’s be honest, high school boys weren’t really worth getting all dolled up. I remember the low self- esteem that other girls around me had. I remember the words they used to describe themselves. Ugly. Fat. Hideous. It makes me so sad, and I’m surrounded by those words even today.
Because I work in the beauty industry now, it’s fitting that I wear makeup but if you run into me on the weekend or on my off days, I guarantee you I’m barefaced. I’ll be honest, I feel more like myself when I’m that way. I’m not embarrassed or apologizing for how I look and you should never apologize for that. No one is ever more beautiful than when they’re embracing, and being their full, authentic self. I’m still learning to do that, trying to thank my body for all it does for me instead of picking it apart to criticize. I’m not going to say that I’m great at it and that I don’t have my bad days, but giving myself grace in those feelings is mandatory for growth.
Being able to be part of a salon gives me a different perspective on self-esteem. I get to see the radical change that our guests have from when they check in to when they check out. From the way they carry themselves, to how they speak and the smiles they have, it’s so rewarding. I love being a part of helping someone else feel beautiful, and provide them with tools and knowledge to feel that way every day.
Here’s to YOUR great hair day!
Bekah Brown/Operations Manager
