Today we’d like to introduce you to Desirae Maldonado.
Hi Desirae, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
Hi, I’m Desirae Maldonado — Affectionately known as Des! I’m a mom of 2 awesome boys, a wife to my high school sweetheart, and a hairstylist/business owner. My journey to becoming a hairstylist started pretty early on in life. I come from a long line of hairstylists and barbers, and witnessing my loved ones living out their passions helped spark that same passion within me for creating art. I’m thankful to have been raised in an environment of creatives.
On paper, I’ve been in the hair industry for 15+ years, years that I’ve spent learning and working to improve my craft. I wholeheartedly believe I was put on this Earth to make people feel beautiful from the inside out, and the transformations that occur in my chair are what motivate me to be the best version of myself.
My first job as a hairstylist was at a salon in the mall. That job provided me with the foundation and confidence I needed to go out on my own. I ended up spending ten years working in my own salon suite. Last year I took a leap of faith and decided to make my dreams of becoming a salon owner a reality, and Desirae Hair was born!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It absolutely has NOT been a smooth road, but I count all of the trials and hardships as life lessons. Without these lessons, I wouldn’t have evolved into the woman I am today. As hairstylists, we spend our days serving others, and for me there was a time when that also meant putting my health on the backburner. I was actually really sick not too long ago and didn’t understand why. When I couldn’t find the answers I so desperately needed, I started doing my own research. I ultimately discovered that my breast implants were making me sick. Plus, the go, go, go lifestyle I was leading was also contributing to my poor health. I was overworked and running on fumes — basically never taking lunch and living on caffeine. Fast forward to present day, and I feel as if I have found a true passion for health and wellness. As humans, we aren’t designed to be sick and there are things we can do to take control of our health, like swapping toxic products for cleaner alternatives.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I lived in color, blondes, and extensions. However, what I’m most proud of is the deep connections I form with my clients. We all know that a visit to the hair salon can double as a much-needed therapy session. I’ve been able to share what I’ve learned on my own health journey with everyone who sits in my chair. There’s a direct connection between the health of our hair and our overall health, so I do my best to seek out and offer organic/ low-tox products, etc. to help lessen the burden on our bodies.
I’m also passionate about education, I love to teach classes and participate in hair shows as often as I can.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I don’t believe in coincidences, and I think that every relationship I’ve had during my journey (no matter how big or small), has played a role in my success. However, there was also LOTS of trial and error. I was 22 years old when I decided to leave the salon. I was also a new mom and had no clue how to run a business, but I did everything I could to figure it out. I still don’t have it all figured out, but I love to mentor and share what I’ve learned with other stylists to help them on their journey. I’m very thankful for the support and encouragement from my friends and family; it has made all the difference. I also recently got a mindset coach to help me stay on the right path for the future.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.desiraehair.com
- Instagram: @desiraehair
Image Credits
@priscillabosmaphotographgy
