We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Quinn Storm. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Quinn below.
Quinn, appreciate you joining us today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?
When I graduated from cosmetology school I was ecstatic. I felt that I knew everything I needed to know, had found the right job for me (the first and only salon I interviewed with), and that money would start flowing in once I opened my books to take clients. Fast forward a year and I was burnt out, struggling to make ends meet, and in a toxic salon atmosphere. To say that I was overwhelmed would be an understatement! When I left that first salon I felt like I had failed. Not only was I not rich and successful, but the environment had been so taxing to my psyche that I truly thought I would never do hair again. I decided to take a break and work a social media coordinating position at an insurance agency. Surely, I thought, this would be the only way to make money and be successful in life.
After 3 months at a desk job I couldn’t take it anymore. The hours of sitting and monotonous work made me feel like I had to run 10 laps around the building at lunchtime just to get my energy out! Not to mention the creative side of myself was screaming to be let out.
So, even though I was riddled with anxiety at the thought of having the same experience I did at my first salon, I applied for another hairstylist position at a new salon. On my first day I was shaking I was so nervous. But, I took it day by day and slowly but surely I found that not every salon has to be that same scary atmosphere. This job was so welcoming, loving and supportive that I had no other choice but to love it. My passion for doing hair and making others feel their best came flooding back. I am happy to say that I have now been in love with hair for 5 years straight with no end in sight!
Although my time at a “regular job” was short, I feel that it taught me quite a few lessons:
1) There is no “right” way to make a living
2) Creativity is what drives me
3) Never give up on your dreams- even when they’re super scary.
Quinn, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I am a Cosmetologist and Cosmetology Educator. I take clients and preform different beauty services, including hair coloring, cutting, waxing, and styling. Sometimes I even dabble in nail design! As an educator, I take so much pride in inspiring the next generation of stylists to follow their dreams and create a life from their passions. There is nothing more rewarding than helping a baby stylist learn a new skill and watching them thrive.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
The best way to support artists and creatives is by using their services! Why buy a print online from Amazon when your friend creates art? When you support a local business you are helping that person put food on the table, pay for their animal’s vet bills, send their children to college, and so much more. When you invest in the people around you and in your community you can see first hand how your money is impacting them for the better.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The best part about being a stylist is turning someone’s frown upside down. When a client comes to me and says that they hate to look in the mirror, feel drab, or just have no idea how to feel good about themselves, I love to create a look that shows all their best features. You have to wear your hair, skin, and nails every day- why not make them your favorite thing about yourself?
Contact Info:
- Instagram: instagram.com/quinn_douglasj