We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Aly Marie. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Aly Marie below.

Alright, Aly Marie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

Cosmetology was actually my backup plan.
In high school, I joined an ROP program just to have a license after graduation. I wasn’t sure what I really wanted to do. Hair ran in my family, but I didn’t expect to love it. It didn’t come naturally to me at first. I was slow, overly technical, and discouraged often. But something told me to keep going.
Eventually, I stopped chasing perfection and started creating with authenticity. That’s when it clicked.. this wasn’t just a job, it was art. Now, nearly 11 years later, I’ve built a career rooted in creativity, connection, and helping others feel seen through hair.

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’m Alyssa Walker, I’m known as Aly Marie Hair Artist based in Dana Point. I got into the industry through an ROP cosmetology program in high school, not because I knew I wanted to be a hairstylist, but because I thought it would be a good backup plan. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do at the time, but I knew I wanted to create and help people. What started as a practical choice became a passion. Nearly 11 years later, I’ve built a brand that’s rooted in authenticity, artistry, and intention.

My art specializes in lived-in color, blondes, seamless extensions, and vibrant transformations. But beyond the technical side, my mission is to help people feel like the best version of themselves, edgy, modern, and unapologetically themselves. I see hair as wearable art and a powerful form of self expression. I also offer hair care education, curated product experiences, and personalized service guides to empower my clients even after they leave the salon.

What sets me apart is my ability to fuse bold creativity with real connection. My approach is intuitive, honest, and deeply personal. I’m proud of the space I’ve created, one where clients can feel seen, inspired, and taken care of. I want people to know that my brand is about more than beauty, it’s about transformation, expression, and growth. Whether it’s through hair, education, or art, I’m here to help people feel iconic in their own skin.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Oh yes.. so many. When I first started, I thought cosmetology school would teach me everything I needed to succeed, but it didn’t prepare me for the realities of working behind the chair. I wish I had access to honest, experience-based guidance about boundaries, confidence, pricing, marketing, and how to navigate burnout. It took me years of trial and error, and I almost quit more than once. That’s why I created my course “What Beauty School Won’t Teach You” to give new stylists the tools and mindset support I desperately needed when I started. Education is more than technique, it’s also about sustainability, self-worth, and growing a career with intention. Now, my course isn’t out yet, but I do plan to have it finished by the end of the year.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Society can best support artists by honoring creativity as a legitimate and essential contribution and not just a hobby or luxury. We need more education around the value of creative work, especially for younger generations. That means encouraging artistic careers, funding programs, and paying artists fairly. Platforms that highlight independent voices, mentorship opportunities, and community spaces where we can collaborate instead of compete are essential. Creativity thrives in environments where artists feel seen, respected, and supported, not just consumed.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Alymariehairartist.com
• Instagram: Alymariehairartist
• Facebook: Aly Marie hair Artist
• Yelp: Aly Marie hair Artist

Image Credits

Alyssa walker (me)