We were lucky to catch up with Rachael Angell recently and have shared our conversation below.

Rachael, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?

I often consider how different my life might be had I chosen another path. It is the small moments—such as revealing my clients’ natural beauty or stepping onto a dynamic film set—that reaffirm my passion for this profession. I am grateful every day for a career that enables me to express my creativity and achieve profound fulfillment.

I appreciate the freedom that comes with my work; each day offers the chance to be on a different set and meet new people. This ever-evolving nature makes every day unpredictable and adds excitement to my profession. Through my work, I’ve had the privilege of meeting incredibly creative individuals, some of whom have become my closest friends. This has created a sense of friendship and support that I genuinely value.

The only time I think about having a traditional job is during my drive to work, which reminds me why I made the right choice: to create hair every day. Rather than experiencing singular “a-ha” moments, I find that it’s a collection of experiences that confirm I am in the right place at the right time, fulfilling my purpose as a hairstylist.

Rachael, 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?

When I first entered the professional world, I didn’t choose this career; it chose me. Despite societal and familial pressures, I made the choice to leave college to pursue my passion for hairstyling. This path has taken me to salons across the country and allowed me to work on sets for renowned brands like Revlon and various streaming platforms.

Being a freelancer has pushed me to take bold risks that have shaped my success. Originally from North Carolina, my husband and I relocated to Los Angeles, where every opportunity has been both rewarding and challenging. I specialize in creating a diverse range of beautiful braids, elegant updos, and period-inspired hairstyles. My services span house calls, film and TV productions, commercials, high-fashion ventures, and weddings. What sets me apart is my commitment to giving each client the time and attention they truly deserve. Whether I’m ensuring that talent can comfortably remove their hairstyles after a long day on set or helping clients understand their hair and develop personalized care plans, my passion for my work shines through.

With each project, I’ve built my network and met amazing people. In this industry, strong connections are key because they can open doors to new opportunities and valuable insights. After years of hard work and continuous learning, I achieved my goal of joining the IATSE Local 706 hair union in Los Angeles, known for its rigorous standards. Being part of this union feels like a true privilege, and I’m excited about what the future holds.

For anyone considering a career in this industry, my advice is simple: go for it. Embrace every opportunity and give it your all. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone; it will enhance your creativity and personal growth. Be genuine and kind to everyone you encounter. This industry—and life—can be challenging, so kindness is crucial. You never know where your journey will lead, so stay positive and seize opportunities as they arise.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

I wish I had more access to a network within my industry. Outside of the Local 706 union, there aren’t many places to connect with fellow hairstylists. While social media has helped me meet some fantastic individuals, finding a dedicated group for hairstylists is still challenging. Being part of such a network is crucial for my learning journey, as it allows me to share techniques, gain inspiration, and receive support that helps us all grow together. I’d love to see more programs focused on hairstyling for film and TV. Many programs emphasize makeup but only include a week of hair education, which feels unbalanced. Providing greater access to education for those interested in pursuing a career in this industry would be extremely beneficial.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Seeing my work on the big screen is incredibly rewarding, especially knowing the research, time, and patience that went into creating intricate looks in challenging environments. Once, I had to work outside without electricity or a tent in the blazing sun, and I just had to make it work!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Angellhair

Image Credits

Crystal Maldonado
Corey Myers