We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Raeann Wimberly a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Raeann, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
Right out of high school I wanted to go to cosmetology school, but I didn’t. I was told “that isn’t a real job”. So of course I went against what I wanted to do & perused a career in the medical field. Don’t get me wrong I loved my job, but it wasn’t my passion. So I finally I decided to take the biggest risk of my life. I quit my job & signed up for cosmetology school. I say some nights really wondering if I made the best decision for myself & my daughter. It was definitely a struggle, but it was totally worth it. I now get to really be my creative self. I have met some amazing clients that I get to now call my friends!
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I started my career in 2018, took a giant leap of faith and it definitely paid off. I absolutely love what I do. I love that I get to meet new people & I change the way they feel when they leave my chair. My main goal is to make your hair goals become reality. I have met some amazing people over the years, I do consider all of my clients friends & even some family. Building a relationship with each one of my clients is by far the best part of my job. I get to be apart of their best & sometimes worst part of their lives. Being able to hear the news of babies, graduations, wedding & so much more just is amazing.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding thing about my job is when I turn my client to the mirror and they get to see their hair for the first time. Seeing the smiles & the boost in their confidence is literally the most rewarding feeling in the world.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
In 2018 I was a single mom, of the most amazing daughter. Every morning I would drop her off at daycare and work my 9-5. Trust me I loved what I did but I always felt like something was missing. I was missing all the firsts with my daughter. It was hard to take off for those big events, when she was sick, etc. I knew I wanted to be more present in her life & have the flexibility I needed as a single mom. So I did what I always wanted & what I wanted my daughter to see. I worked hard & did a huge career change. I now get to set my own schedule, be there for all the moments that I don’t want to miss out on.
Contact Info:
- Website: Looks-by-rae.square.site
- Instagram: Looks_by_rae
- Facebook: Looks by Rae
- TikTok: – Looks by Rae