We recently connected with Krystal Gervais and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Krystal , thanks for joining us today. Parents can play a significant role in affecting how our lives and careers turn out – and so we think it’s important to look back and have conversations about what our parents did that affected us positive (or negatively) so that we can learn from the billions of experiences in each generation. What’s something you feel your parents did right that impacted you positively.
My parents, although imperfect like the rest of us, gave me gifts that have profoundly shaped who I am today. My mother was a talented poet who inspired my love for writing poetry and raps. Growing up, I would find her writings scattered around the house—little pieces of her heart that spoke to me even as a child. She introduced me to Edgar Allan Poe, whose works remain some of my all-time favorites. Her creativity and vulnerability through poetry taught me to express my emotions through words, a gift that has become central to my personal and professional life. She had an uncanny ability to connect with anyone, no matter their walk of life, blending a sharp sense of humor with a childlike innocence that was both endearing and inspiring. At the same time, she was deeply thoughtful and could engage in meaningful conversations about almost anything. Her unique mix of openness and playfulness taught me to embrace life with an open heart.
My father also left an indelible mark on me, teaching me the importance of treating everyone with respect, regardless of their background. As a renowned pastry chef, he worked with people from all walks of life and showed the same respect to everyone, expecting it in return. He too has a wonderful sense of humor and a love for sharing knowledge, which created an environment of curiosity and growth in our home. His passion for learning new things and his joy in teaching others inspired me to see the world as a place full of endless possibilities. He also nurtured my love for music. As a drummer and guitarist, he introduced me to artists like the Fugees, Guns ‘N Roses and Prince, whose work continues to influence my artistry today.
One of my fondest memories is sitting with my dad as he played his guitar, sharing stories about the music he loved. Those moments taught me the power of blending presence and art, a lesson I carry into everything I create—from my poetry to my hairstyling. My mom’s writings—through her vulnerability and authenticity—remind me to stay grounded in my truth, no matter the medium. Together, my parents instilled in me the values of creativity, respect, and resilience, forming the foundation of my life and career.
Krystal , 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?
My name is Krystal Gervais, and I’m the founder of HairPoetics, a (mobile) space where beauty, creativity, and spirituality intertwine. Originally from New Orleans, I’ve been a professional hairstylist since 2010, after graduating from the Aveda Institute New Orleans. My journey began working on movie and TV sets as a key hairstylist, eventually leading a hair department. Following the loss of my mom, I shifted gears to teaching art and personal development to children, helping them navigate challenges through creativity and self-expression.
In 2018, I moved to San Diego to start fresh and continue my healing journey. HairPoetics is the culmination of my expertise as a stylist and my passion for fostering connection and self-love. I specialize in luxury blowouts, bridal hair, and crochet locs, blending technical skill with a holistic approach to haircare. My services are designed not just to enhance outer beauty but to empower clients to feel their best from the inside out.
What sets me apart is my focus on creating an experience rather than just a service. I believe haircare is sacred—it’s a moment to nurture yourself, align with your true essence, and express who you are. My clients often say they leave my chair feeling transformed, not only by their look but by the energy and care poured into every session.
Beyond hairstyling, I’m also a poet, painter, and writer. My creative works reflect my journey of growth, healing, and self-discovery, and I’m currently working on my own poetry book and an ebook on holistic haircare.
I’m most proud of how far I’ve come, especially as someone who has overcome trauma and embraced creativity and connection as my guiding lights. I want my clients and followers to know that my work is rooted in authenticity and care. Whether I’m styling hair, performing poetry, or creating art, my goal is to inspire others to embrace their unique beauty and potential.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
I believe my reputation in the market has been built on a foundation of authenticity, skill, and connection. From the start, I’ve approached my work with a deep respect for the artistry of hairstyling and the personal stories behind every client who sits in my chair. My training and experience on film and TV sets taught me the importance of precision and professionalism, while my spiritual journey has shaped my holistic approach to beauty and self-care.
What sets me apart is my ability to combine technical expertise with genuine care and attention. My clients know that when they book with me, it’s not just about a hairstyle—it’s about an experience. I create a safe, welcoming space where they feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether it’s a bride preparing for her big day or someone seeking a transformative look, I approach each service with the intention of helping them feel confident and aligned with their true essence, whether through in-depth conversations or silent presence.
Consistency has also been key. I strive to deliver exceptional results every time. Clients trust me because I listen to their needs, provide honest advice, and go the extra mile to ensure they leave feeling amazing.
Lastly, I think my openness about my own journey—my challenges, growth, and creative passions—has helped me connect with people on a deeper level. Sharing my story and weaving it into my brand has resonated with clients who value authenticity and holistic beauty. I’m grateful that my work speaks for itself, but I’m even more grateful for the relationships I’ve built along the way.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
A lesson I had to unlearn is that my worth is tied to how much I can give to or endure for others. Growing up, I often felt like my needs and feelings were secondary, and as an adult, this led me to overextend myself in relationships, both personally and professionally. I believed that if I just gave enough or worked hard enough, I’d be valued in return.
The turning point came during my healing journey after losing my mom and facing other challenges that forced me to reevaluate this mindset. I realized that constantly putting others first left me depleted and disconnected from my own needs. Through therapy, many conversations with my grandfather, self-reflection, and spiritual practice, I learned that true worth comes from within—not from what I can do for others, but from who I am at my core.
Unlearning this belief has helped me set boundaries, honor my energy, and focus on building relationships that are mutual and fulfilling. It’s also transformed my approach to my work. While I love giving my clients an amazing experience, I’ve learned to balance that with nurturing myself so I can show up fully and authentically for them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hairpoetics.com
- Instagram: @hairpoetics
- Facebook: HairPoetics
