Today we’d like to introduce you to Cindy Heck.
Hi Cindy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My name is Cindy, and I’m 39 years old. My journey started with a single moment in 2005 – the day I walked into a Toni & Guy salon. At the time, T&G was the place for cutting-edge styles and precision cuts. I watched my stylist work, something just clicked. The way she moved, the artistry in every snip – I thought, “This is it. This is what I want to do.”
After cosmetology school, I knew exactly where I wanted to be. When I got hired at Toni & Guy, I showed up ready to learn everything i could. I became an educator with them and spent five years really developing my skills as an artist, especially in cutting techniques that would become the foundation of everything I do. After 5 years i was ready for a new challenge, That’s when I found TEASE Color & Style Bar, and honestly, those were some of the happiest years of my career. My bosses, Travis and Roi, were incredible mentors who pushed me to dream bigger. During my almost seven years there, I became a certified Master Colorist with Goldwell, which opened doors to travel, learn from the best in the industry, and really discover who I was as an artist.
Then COVID hit. Like so many businesses, we had to close our doors. It was heartbreaking – I’d found my home at TEASE and suddenly had to figure out what was next. But honestly? That uncertainty pushed me in ways I never expected. I realized I had spent years building skills, relationships, and a reputation – it was time to take the leap and open my own place. Opening my own salon studio was terrifying and exhilarating at the same time. I had to learn everything from the business side – managing finances, marketing, navigating permits and licensing – things they don’t teach you in cosmetology school! But five years in, I can say it’s been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. There’s something incredible about creating a space that’s truly yours, where you set the vision and the vibe.
I’m someone who never stops learning. I love diving deep into research – especially anything hair-related! I recently completed my Level 1 certification as a hair loss expert, which allows me to offer scalp analysis, treatments, and at-home prevention products.
At the end of the day, what drives me is helping people feel beautiful and confident. My work truly comes from the heart, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I won’t lie – it hasn’t been easy. The creative side of running a salon? That’s my passion, that’s where I thrive. But the financial side? That was a whole different game. The first couple of years were honestly confusing and overwhelming. I’d find myself staring at spreadsheets wondering what I’d gotten myself into! Learning to manage cash flow, understanding profit margins, navigating taxes – it felt like learning a completely new language. But I quickly realized I couldn’t do it all alone. Getting the right advisors to help with bookkeeping and taxes was a game-changer. It took a huge weight off my shoulders and allowed me to focus on what I do best – being behind the chair and taking care of my clients.
That was probably one of my biggest lessons as a business owner: knowing when to ask for help and surround yourself with people who are experts in areas you’re not.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a hairdresser, and I’ve been behind the chair for 17 years. I specialize in precision cutting, color corrections, hair extensions, balayage, and men’s cuts, but I’m probably best known for my color work. There’s something really special about that moment when someone sees their transformation, it’s why I love what I do. One of my proudest moments was doing a news segment with my friend Roi about embracing natural gray/ silver hair. Here’s the thing: I have serious stage fright. I was super nervous,, but I pushed through and overcame my fear. It reminded me that growth happens outside your comfort zone.
What sets me apart? I genuinely love connecting with people, and I think that shows. I really listen – not just to what they want their hair to look like, but to what’s happening in their lives. My chair has become this space where people feel comfortable opening up and being themselves. I think clients can sense when you truly care, and I do. Great hair is the goal, but making someone feel seen and confident? That’s what keeps me passionate about this work.
What were you like growing up?
I was a total tomboy growing up! I loved being outside, climbing trees, playing Power Rangers with my friends – that kind of kid. The girliest thing I did was probably playing Barbies with my little sister. But here’s the funny part: I actually loved homework. I’ve always been a bit of a nerd who genuinely enjoys learning and studying. That hasn’t changed – I’m still that person who gets excited about diving into research. Music was huge in my life. My mom was a singer in a Tejano/Cumbia band, so our house was always filled with music from morning to night. She’d let my friends and me “make music” in her studio until she couldn’t take the chaos anymore! As I got older, I became pretty introverted, but music stayed constant. I got really into classic rock, heavy metal, punk, hardcore, psychobilly, rockabilly – those are still my go-to genres, though now I listen to everything. Music in all languages, actually. I find it fascinating how you can connect with a song even when you don’t understand the words. The emotion always comes through – that’s the universal language.
Contact Info:
- Website: Freeformhair.com
- Instagram: Freeform.hair
Image Credits
Photo credits: Nubia Rodríguez photography.
