Daily Inspiration: Meet Alena Rice

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alena Rice.

Hi Alena, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started my hair journey fresh out of high school. I am a licensed Cosmetologist. My first job was at a high-end salon in Scottsdale called Rolfs. I had amazing mentors and eventually became part of the education program as an instructor. We did charity events, fashion shows, and galas every year and were featured on Channel 3 News; I was exposed to motivational speakers and great leaders in the hair industry. I loved the luxury experience and quality of service we provided, not only for our clients but for the employees as well. After seven years at Rolfs, I moved to Dallas, Texas. I worked right in the heart of Uptown at the luxury salon Lure and loved every minute!

The hair culture and fashion trends were so different. I soaked up every bit of knowledge from the incredible artists and mentors I had around me every day. Eventually, I became part of the training team to elevate the new hires and myself. I helped train all the assistants and held classes to teach specialty cuts, updos, and bridal styling. After four years, I moved back to Arizona and became a Bridal and Special Occasion Hair Specialist. I have worked for bridal beauty companies in Arizona that I love and have made some of the most influential and incredible connections with clients and artists. I am an Independent Contractor, and I love giving each of my clients my unique form of luxury experience. I have so much gratitude for being in such an incredible field. I receive so much trust and kindness from my brides that it fills my cup every day. I also teach small group Bridal Hair Classes for artists just starting off or senior artists who want continued education! There is no gatekeeping here! I love to share and exchange ideas with everyone I meet!

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?
There are challenges in this industry. Most clients say, “Your job must be so fun!” or “What do you do full time?”. Not many people understand the countless hours of training that go into creating endless styles on endless types of hair. The beauty industry is one of the most gratifying and physically and emotionally demanding. Special grace and control come with being able to be on your feet for 8 hours straight, with no food or breaks, chatting, and keeping to a timeline. One of the biggest struggles I faced while in this industry was deciding to move states; after building a clientele and consistently filling books, it was tough to walk away and start all over. Another area I could have done better was learning to budget for the slow season when business slows down to a crawl, but the bills didn’t get the memo! The last and most recent struggle would be becoming a business owner. There were so many skills I had to learn overnight. I became my accountant, assistant, receptionist, and marketing team, taking clients and being present on the most special day of people’s lives! It was exhilarating and terrifying!

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a Bridal Hair Specialist! My favorite, and most requested hairstyle, is the Hollywood wave. I am known for more elegant and formal hairstyles. I adore soft updos and luxuriously feminine looks; I specialize in clean and classy styles with a little sex bomb mixed in! My many years as a licensed cosmetologist and training in professional etiquette are what sets me apart from others. My priority is always ensuring my client has the best experience by going above and beyond to give guidance and confidence, and an incredible hairstyle! I love to help empower and uplift other artists and see people grow themselves and their businesses!

How do you define success?
I would define success as many things. Success is the number of lives you can positively influence while feeding your passion. Success is the ability to be authentic in everything you do. Success has freedom and choice in business and life. True success is looking back at every choice and hardship you have faced and being proud of where it has led you and the amazing people it has brought into your life. Success has gratitude and grace during times of struggle.

Pricing:

• Bridal Hair from $125-$250

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alena_beautyaz/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alena.rice

Image Credits
Kathrine Bacon Hayley Stall Lumiere Weddings