Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Boyer.
Taylor, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Throughout high school, I was always doing my friends’ hair and makeup. I honestly don’t even know where it began, I just remember always having people over wanting their hair done! When I graduated, I decided to go into cosmetology school, I thought that maybe I would enjoy doing hair in a salon somewhere. Upon finishing my classes + obtaining my license a year later, I worked in a salon for about 9 months and decided that it wasn’t for me. I was all about styling, weddings, makeup — the FUN stuff! So, I quit my job and began Updo Gypsy where I could specialize in wedding and event hair and makeup and be the one over my schedule. I loved getting to do what I was passionate about while also having the flexibility to do the other things I enjoy.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It started out so naturally + clients came so easily! It was a dream come true, honestly. Over the last 4 years, I have worked with so many beautiful women + have been a part of so many weddings that I love looking back on. There have definitely been some challenges… social media seems to work against small business so that is always sad. I always recommend that you start early + you gain people’s trust along the way. I have a ton of people around me that support me and get my name out there even better than I do – it’s always better to have others recommending you!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Updo Gypsy – what should we know?
I specialize in hair styling + airbrush makeup and I solely focus on the fun days – weddings, proms, photo shoots, you name it. I love working with excited women that are always ready to have the best day. I have a style that I stick to and that my clients know me for – “messy”, textured, boho updos + natural glam makeup. I love getting to work with women who have the same style and like the looks that I love. It’s so fun!
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
It’s not hard! This industry has grown SO much even since I joined it 5 years ago. There are so many groups on Facebook that you can join that do monthly meet-ups and it’s a great way to get involved with others. It’ll always help you to make friends in the industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.taylorsouthard.com
- Email: updogypsy@taylorsouthard.com
- Instagram: @tayboyer13
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/updogypsy
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