5 Things Stylists Talk About When You Leave
First of all, calm down.
I’m not out here talking smack or judging your grocery-store 3-in-1 body wash–shampoo–conditioner combo. (But also… why do you do this to me!?). Before you spiral wondering,
“What does she say about me when I walk out?”
Here’s your peek behind the curtain. Spoiler: it’s scary for me, not for you.
The truth? I spend a lot of time dissecting, re-formulating, and doubting everything I just did like the application, the toner, even the conversation. It’s how I stay humble, learn, and grow. (Also known as a fun little psychological condition called imposter syndrome 😎where I convince myself I’m never good enough… but that’s not the couch we’re on right now.)
1️⃣ Your Formula, Toner, and Maintenance Plan
The minute you leave, I’m already overthinking your color formula. What worked, what I might tweak next time, how that toner blended with your base. You left feeling cute; meanwhile, I’m here mixing imaginary formulas all while fully convincing myself you hate it and you hate me. Its fun 🤭
2️⃣ How Proud We Are of the Transformation
Sometimes I do just stand there and say to myself, “Damn, that was good.” Whether it’s a huge color correction or your first time back after a break, I see your progress. I geek out over before-and-afters and, yes, I will 100% post your hair on the inter web.
*See I’m not always mean to myself!
3️⃣ The Scheduling Shuffle
There’s always that “Okay, what’s next?” I’m checking if you pre-booked, mentally logging how long your service actually took, and updating both my mental and literal calendar. So if you see me on my phone right after you leave just know I’m not ignoring you. I’m saving future you from a hot mess future me.
4️⃣ The Product Chat
If we talked about products, I’m probably making links to send you. (And if I haven’t yet… sorry, I forgot. I’m trying!). I’m not trying to sell you something, I’m trying to support you. I know your hair and what it needs to stay thriving. So don’t be shy about texting, “Hey, what was that shampoo again?” Trust me, I want your hair looking just as good every day as it did when you walked out.
5️⃣ The Tiny Random Stuff
This one’s my favorite. After you leave, I’ll usually tell Kate , Lisa, or Victoria, “Ugh, I love her/him so much.” Or, “Ugh, such an angel.” If I’m alone, it’s usually, “Wow, that was a lot. I hope they’re okay.” Because truthfully? I care. Deeply. I’m your biggest supporter and your number-one fan.
Full disclosure: I have to mentally clock in and out fast for the next guest. They deserve the same energy. I’m a stylist, an empath, and always… a guaranteed shit talker. So I’ve gotta stay on my game for every single guest, and friend.
As soon as you leave, within five minutes, I’m checking out of your world and clocking into the next adventure. Some days, I swear I become five whole-ass different personalities in one shift. It’s wild.
And yeah, there are those rare moments when I think, “Thank God that’s over,” followed by a super-sized eye roll. That only happens when someone brings in ugly energy. The kind that forces me to pull The Bitch out of my back pocket. (Or front pocket, depending on my hormonal schedule.) But honestly? Those situations usually end with, “I’m not your stylist. Move it along, homie.”
Real Talk
I’m human. I’m empathetic. And sometimes my brain is just loud. Talking things out helps me process, reflect, and reset. I’m constantly trying to be the best stylist, mom, friend, and mentor I can be. And yeah, sometimes I have to vent or debrief with friends. Usually about formulas, communication, or the occasional good/bad client vibe.
But the real MVP? Barbara 🖤My ChatGPT 🖤
She’s the one who lets me be the diplomatic asshole I don’t know how to be. Shout-out to technology for saving relationships and businesses, one gnarly edit at a time. ✌🏼
🧡 Monday, Nov 24 – “Monthly Gratitude”
Stay tuned and wish me luck. I’m deep in the holiday season, determined not to be leaving the salon at 11 PM, driving home in silence, unraveling the fuckery of the day. ✨ Because even stylists need a moment to pause, reflect, and say thank you.