We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alexza Maldonado a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Alexza thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s go back in time a bit – can you share a story of a time when you learned an important lesson during your education?

The cosmetology school that I went to didn’t really teach new “trends” so I would recommend asking to learn EVERYTHING that you want to learn while you are there. A lot of us should’ve been able to learn extensions, sow-ins, fades and etc but unfortunately we didn’t know that we had to ask. Just an advice, if you haven’t been taught what you want to learn. PLEASE bring it up. I hear this from a lot of other cosmetologists as well who attended different schools.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Alexza Maldonado. Born in Houston TX, raised in Irving TX. Currently located in Grand Prairie TX. I’m normally shy outside of doing hair but when I’m at work, I can be my complete self. I would say that I’m very caring, funny and nurturing? I love what I do. I’ve known that I’ve always wanted to be a cosmetologist since the age of 4? Both my parents could never do my ponytail correctly. My mom would do it too tight and my father would make it too loose so I had to take matters in my own hands! What sets me apart is that I actually listen when someone says they only want a centimeter trim. My poor sister went to a salon when we were children and asked for a trim and was left with a pixie cut. I vowed I would NEVER do that to anyone.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

Thank God (sorry for the non-believers) but I am forever grateful, thankful, blessed and fortunate that I am able to make a living with my career. For the first year/2 yrs I was so terrified to go solo but it was worth it! Unfortunately I didn’t learn anything at the salon where I was at and the pay was not good so I HAD to do what was best for me since I just had moved out and purchased a vehicle. I really want “all or nothing” and I do not regret it.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I would say “mis manos” (my hands) everyone has told me that I have “the touch”. Also genuinely loving what I do. I try to post as much as I can on what I’ve done for the day so people can stay engaged but honestly it’s just me? (Vice versa for others, it’ll be themselves) if you are true to your craft, that helps build reputation.

Contact Info:

• Website: blendzbylex.booksy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blendzbylex?igsh=MTk1dDdpeHZibnRqNw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexza.maldonado.7?mibextid=nwBsNb
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@alexzamaldonado3722?si=QPySUikRMT8HeACf