Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Corinne Viruet. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Corinne thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

Hair has always been my passion. Ever since second grade career day, when I dressed up as a hairdresser—just a “cute” outfit and some scissors—I knew what I wanted to do. My inspiration has always been my aunt, a talented hairdresser who owns her own salon, The Hair Spray.

Every time we visited her, which we did every summer and over the winter holidays, I begged to go to work with her. I loved being immersed in the salon—mixing colors, sweeping hair, chatting with clients, organizing products. I found joy in every part of it.

Hair is the one thing I have never-ending patience for – it’s my calling.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I grew up in Spotsylvania, Virginia, for most of my childhood. My dad, a Marine, spent the majority of his career stationed at Quantico, but for four years, we relocated to a base in Irvine, California. That move was life-changing for me. I fell deeply in love with California, and at just eight years old, I made a vow: one day, I’d return to start my life and career in hair.

That dream lived in the corner of my bedroom inside an oversized, cardboard crayon-shaped piggy bank labeled California Fund. When I turned 16, I got my first job and opened a bank account, saving 90% of every paycheck. I was determined. During high school, I attended a career and technical center where I spent half my day—every day during 11th and 12th grade—in their Cosmetology School program. I completed the program and passed my state board exam upon graduation. While the schooling was solid, it felt a bit “old school,” and I didn’t feel fully prepared to jump straight into a career—especially knowing I was about to move across the country and face the challenge of getting licensed in a different state.

That led me to apply to Paul Mitchell The School in Santa Barbara, CA.

One month after my high school graduation, at just 17 years old, I packed up my things, grabbed a road atlas, and drove cross-country with my cousin, chasing a dream.

Starting Cosmetology School again in California was a completely different experience—fun, modern, and hands-on. We worked with real clients every day, not just mannequins. I thrived in both the written and practical aspects of the program. I’ll never forget the day we learned finger waves; our young instructors struggled, and I ended up teaching the class. Thankfully, my teacher back in Virginia was in her 70s—roller sets and finger waves were second nature to her, and she’d made sure we mastered them.

Now I was living the California dream—for better or worse—and proud to say I completed school and got licensed again.

As someone who always loved styling hair, my first real salon job out of school was at a blow dry bar in Montecito. It was there that I was first introduced to bridal hair — and the possibility of turning it into a career. Like many in our industry, I was fed the line, “fake it till you make it,” and wrestled with imposter syndrome. Was I really good enough? For nearly a decade, I styled hair and did bridal work part-time while juggling more traditional jobs. It took a long time to trust the dream I had since I was 8 years old. But I’m so proud to say that five years ago, I took the leap and started Hair by Corinne V — and have been doing bridal hair full-time ever since.

The passion and drive I have for my bridal business are unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Each new hairstyle and emerging trend fuels my creativity and deepens my love for this art. I’m constantly learning, evolving, and pushing myself—and I believe that’s such an essential part of this journey. My work is deeply personal and uniquely crafted for every single bride. It’s a collaboration built on inspiration, trust, and artistic vision. Being part of someone’s “best day ever” is not just an honor—it’s a daily privilege I never take for granted.

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

It starts from within. I believe in community over competition. Creatives are stronger when we support and uplift one another. Sharing each other’s work, offering referrals, giving advice, and exchanging words of encouragement — these small acts create a ripple effect. They help legitimize our art, not just as passion, but as profession.

When we move as a united creative community, we shift perceptions. We’re not just artists — we are business owners, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Gone are the days when only college degrees guaranteed a lucrative career. Today, Creatives are building successful, fulfilling lives on their own terms.

The more we speak on this truth, the less we have to justify our career choices. Our work is not a side hustle or a hobby — it’s a viable, valuable, and vital part of the economy and culture. The more we stand together, the more power we have to shape the narrative.

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

The most rewarding part of what I do is the connection with people. From the very first interaction, I pour my heart into supporting my Brides in every possible way. Our conversations go far beyond just hair—we connect on all things weddings, life, and everything in between. While my expertise lies in creating beautiful wedding hair, my true passion is in building meaningful relationships.

I strive to provide unwavering support, helpful recommendations, and lots of fun throughout the planning process and especially on the Big Day. Starting the morning with my Brides, bringing their dream hair vision to life, and sending them off to get dressed and married—it fills my cup every single time. Being a small part of such a monumental occasion never gets old. I am genuinely my Brides’ biggest fan and always look forward to seeing all the details come together in the photos afterward.

Beyond my Brides, one of the greatest joys of this journey is connecting with fellow Artists and Mentors in the industry. Working alongside like-minded Creatives who truly get you is a cornerstone of my growth and success. These relationships have turned into lifelong friendships that I deeply cherish.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.theknot.com/marketplace/bridal-hair-by-corinne-ventura-ca-2049942
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hairbycorinnev
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@hairbycorinnev

Image Credits

Amber Dolyak Photography
Sara Nobel Photography
Michelle Lanning Photo
Brianna Mari Co
Logan Cole Photo
Sharon Ko Photo
Heirlume Photography
Sarah Vendramini Photography