We recently connected with Marina Vaskina and have shared our conversation below.

Marina , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

Initially, hairstyling was just a casual interest. However, as I discovered my knack for it, it evolved into a passion. Life circumstances led me to transition from finance to a hairstyling business. It wasn’t an instant switch; rather, it was a gradual realization fueled by my growing love for the craft. Key milestones included formal training and building a clientele base. Looking back, I could have expedited growth with better networking and marketing strategies. Despite challenges, the journey has been transformative, leading to a fulfilling career centered on my true passion.

Marina , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Marina, a hairstylist with 13 years of experience in beauty and fashion industry. I’m truly passionate about what I do, and I absolutely love taking care of my clients and honing my skills.

It all started back in 2008 when I had an inspiring conversation with a talented Italian hairstylist. His stories about art, beauty, and fashion ignited a fire within me, prompting me to pursue cosmetology. Within a year, I landed a job at a top salon in my area. In 2010, I even had the incredible opportunity to work as a hairstylist on MTV in Russia. And in 2013, I pushed myself further by winning a competition and studying at the prestigious TIGI academy in London.

Throughout my journey, I’ve collaborated with fashion magazines and worked on exciting TV projects across Europe. But no matter where I go, I never lose sight of my dream.

Since 2016, I’ve been fortunate enough to participate in Fashion Weeks in iconic cities like NYC, London, Milan, and Paris.

Yet, no matter how far I roam, I always find my way back to @salon.atlas.ftw in Fort Worth, Tx, where I work my magic behind the chair, staying true to my passion and finding inspiration in the amazing clients I serve

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I’ll respond a bit philosophically :) We are all unique. Each of us has our own unique vision. We strive for attention, to be valued, because we live in society. Although some of us hide this desire, I’m sure that deep inside every person there is a desire for uniqueness. Being an artist, in my case a hair stylist, means helping people see their worth in themselves. To help someone express their beauty, individuality, personal qualities. Because if a person starts to see their worth, feel their significance and love for themselves, they will continue to cherish this value in every action, not only towards themselves, but also towards others. I believe this is one of the most important tasks of an artist.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

The best resource for building a business is contacts. Especially crucial in the early stages. It’s important to attend thematic events (conferences, trainings, workshops) to expand your networking and gain industry knowledge. This way, you can learn about new trends, get inspired, acquire techniques and tricks, which can be very useful, and of course, showcase your personality. When many people know about you, your skills, and your personal qualities, it always helps achieve goals in business, whether it’s expanding your client base or new projects.

In turn, I’ve undergone extensive training all over the world. I took both personal lessons and attended group programs by renowned hair stylists. I worked a lot as an assistant, which greatly helped me. I underwent marketing training. Here, there must be a comprehensive approach, creative training plus sales training. And then it will be a great help. And one should never stop. Because the fashion and beauty industry never stand still for a second. We must always practice and learn :)

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.instagram.com/marina.v.buchanan/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marina.v.buchanan/

Image Credits

all the pictures from backstage of different fashion shows and the group picture is from the “behind the chair” event in Austin tx, 2022