Meet Jennifer Bailey

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Bailey.

Hi Jennifer, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I went through cosmetology school and got my license in 2011. I started as an assistant and continued my education with Vidal Sassoon cutting techniques. I then decided to specialize in haircutting and worked at the Toni and Guy salon, learning their cutting techniques. After fine-tuning those skills, I also began developing my coloring skills, focusing on vivid colors. 

As of lately, I have been developing my clipper-cutting techniques, such as fades, mullets, and other unique looks. I love this field because you can always learn something new! I enjoy offering customized looks for my clients so that they can present themselves authentically. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There were times during my career when I had to make some tough decisions. I was a single mom trying to provide for my small family, and sometimes, I worked late nights and missed time with my son when he was younger. 

I chose to work an office job for some years but always kept up with current trends and techniques! Once my son was old enough, I could come back into the field full-time to chase my dreams of being an independent hairstylist. 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
What I am most proud of in my career is that I am a safe place for the LGBTQ+ community. I want my clients to know and understand that they are safe and welcome to present themselves authentically. I enjoy offering gender-affirming haircuts and colors! I also work well with those who might have sensory issues or anxiety about coming to the salon/barber. When you sit in my chair, you can be your true self without judgment. 

 Additionally, I am well known for offering unique looks and having in-depth consultations. I will ask questions to discover what you like and what you don’t like. I will pull out pictures for reference and point out details of what both the client and I see to determine the final look. Hair is a form of self-expression, and there is no right or wrong answer! 

Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Many people consider the hair industry to be a risky place for business. It’s challenging to be successful, and it can take many years to build up a clientele base. At one point, I was working an office job that paid well, but my spirit and happiness took a toll. I took the risk of leaving a “stable” job to enter back into the hair industry. 

I didn’t care, I missed doing hair! I was ready to do what it takes to be successful. More recently, I made the decision to branch out on my own and be an independent stylist. This, too, is a risky move! Instead of being just an employee, I am now responsible for all of the needs of running a business. Even in the face of all of those challenges, I am happier and healthier than I ever have been and can truly say I am exactly where I want and need to be. 

Pricing:

• Clipper cuts: $35
• Regular (maintenance) haircut: $50
• Transformation haircut: $75
• Coloring (going darker): $80-300+
• Coloring (going lighter): $140+

Contact Info:

• Website: https://msha.ke/hair_rituals
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbails_hair_rituals?igsh=MWd4eDIxNmltNGt3cg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr