We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Angela-Lynn Ware. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Angela-Lynn below.

Angela-Lynn, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

I’ve been fortunate to make a living from my creative work—something that has been both deeply rewarding and, at times, incredibly challenging. The journey hasn’t been easy, but it has absolutely been worth it.

My early career was rooted in hair salons and the retail cosmetics world. Those years gave me a strong foundation, but it wasn’t until I was given the chance to work on a film—now part of historic Philadelphia at The President’s House Museum—that my eyes were opened to an entirely new side of the beauty industry. That experience shifted my perspective and sparked a new passion.

Soon after, I began working with a luxury bridal artist, which led me to New York and expanded my creative reach. From there, I completed an intensive 18-month internship that covered hair, makeup, airbrush techniques, and special effects. That training became the gateway to the film and television industry, with opportunities in fashion, print, and commercial work along the way.

Looking back, if there’s one thing I would’ve done differently, it would be starting sooner. Beginning my journey at a younger age could have accelerated my growth, but I have no regrets. I truly believe everything in life happens for a reason. This was the path designed for me, and I’m grateful for every step of it.

Angela-Lynn, 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 professional journey began in a very different field—I earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and went on to serve inner-city families as a social worker, educator, counselor, and advisor. While I found deep fulfillment in serving my community, there was always a creative pull within me that I couldn’t ignore. Over time, I chose to lean into that passion and made a pivotal shift into the beauty industry.

I enrolled in the cosmetology program at Empire Beauty School, followed by their teacher’s program, earning both my operator’s and teacher’s licenses. From there, I officially stepped into entrepreneurship and began building what would become my brand—Direct Reflection. My mission has always been to reflect the beauty, confidence, and power already within each client, while simultaneously mentoring and developing aspiring beauty professionals through sound educational practices.

I continued my training by earning a barber certificate from Maximum Level and eventually my Master Barber License from Westchester Barber Academy. Today, I’m proud to be a licensed hairstylist, master barber, makeup artist and union member working in film and television. I’m most recently known for my precision haircutting work on CBS’s The Equalizer.

What truly sets me apart in this industry is the range and depth of services I provide. I design and construct custom wigs and hair units—not just for entertainment, but also for individuals facing hair loss due to medical or personal challenges. Whether I’m on set, in a salon, or working one-on-one with a client, I approach every appointment with care, intention, and artistry.

I actually began working in this field very young—running a full business out of my home as a teenager. That early hustle eventually evolved into salon ownership, the development of a mentorship program, entry into the hair and makeup union, and working with celebrity clientele.

Beyond the techniques and titles, what I’m most proud of is the impact. My goal is never just to make someone look good—but to ensure they feel seen, empowered, and transformed. When people walk away from my chair, I want them to carry a renewed sense of confidence that extends far beyond the mirror. That to me, is the true power of this craft and it’s the legacy that I hope to leave behind in this industry.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding part of being an artist is the transformation; both seen and unseen. Yes, there’s an undeniable joy in creating something beautiful, whether it’s a precision haircut, a custom wig, or a full glam look for film or a photo shoot. But what truly moves me is witnessing the shift in someone’s spirit when they sit in my chair and walk away not just looking different, but feeling different.

As someone who’s worked as a social worker, educator, and now a creative in the beauty and entertainment industries, I see the connection between inner and outer transformation every day. That’s where the reward lives for me… where the inner beauty meets the outer appearance.

When a client tells me they feel seen, more confident, or even inspired after our time together, that’s everything. Whether I’m mentoring a young professional, styling an actor on set, or helping someone navigate hair loss with dignity and grace, I know I’m doing more than just a job. I’m offering care, artistry, and presence. I tell people as much as this is my craft, it’s my ministry…touching lives one brush stroke at a time.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One of the most defining moments in my journey came during a season of deep uncertainty. At the time, I was working as a social worker when due to budget cuts, my program abruptly closed. I took that as a cue to enroll in a teacher’s program and earned my educator’s license. After completion, I returned to social work. Still, I found myself in a complicated balancing act. Now as a case manager, running my salon, and freelancing as a makeup artist in retail, I was spread thin, emotionally and physically, and unsure of where I truly belonged.

That’s when my mother said something that changed everything. She told me, “When you find your passion, God will show you your purpose.” That truth hit me hard. I walked into my job the next day and gave my resignation. I didn’t have a full plan—I just knew I couldn’t keep straddling multiple worlds without fully stepping into the one I was called to.

Shortly after, I was offered a permanent position as a resident makeup artist. I was finally starting to see the fruit of my risk but then came another test. A new policy was rolled out where all employees company wide were required to work Saturdays, no exceptions. For me, that was a non-negotiable. Saturdays were sacred for my personal life, business and creative work. I calmly responded, “You’ll have my resignation tomorrow.” And they did. I would never achieve my goals if I remained loyal to someone else’s dreams

That was a turning point. I realized that resilience isn’t just about enduring hard seasons—it’s about choosing yourself, your values, your vision, even when the road ahead is unclear. Each leap of faith I took brought me closer to the life I was meant to live. One where I get to use my creativity, compassion, and craft to impact others on a deeper level.

I look back now and I’m proud that I didn’t wait for permission to pursue purpose. I trusted the call, even when it felt risky. Believing that my gift will make room for me and having the boldness to trust in God and myself has been the foundation of everything that I’ve built today.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anglalynnware

Image Credits

Gordon Ramsay
Charles Barkley
Lisa Arrindell
Devale Ellis
Russell Hornsby
Michael Imperioli
Katie Couric
Buddy Valastro