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

Juel, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

From a very young age, I was always immersed in creativity—drawing, painting, and exploring different artistic mediums. Art was a natural part of my childhood. Despite this, my path to becoming a hairstylist and makeup artist wasn’t straightforward. Both my grandmother and mother were hairstylists, and my older sister also followed in their footsteps. Being the youngest and a bit of a rebel, I was determined not to follow the same path. I wanted to carve out my own identity, so I resisted the idea of working in beauty.

I initially went to college, but none of the majors resonated with me. I then tried working behind a desk, which was a struggle. The monotony of office life made the days feel endless, and I knew that this wasn’t where I was meant to be. It was only after I got fired from that job that I decided to give beauty school a shot. From the moment I walked into that environment, I knew I had found my true calling. Every aspect of the work—whether it was the creativity involved or the immediate gratification of making someone feel beautiful—felt right. It was a revelation and a confirmation that this was where I was supposed to be. It turns out that my creative instincts and family heritage were leading me exactly where I needed to go.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I began my career in the beauty industry at the renowned Gene Juarez Salons & Spas, where I was deeply influenced by Gene Juarez’s commitment to excellence and the exceptional training he provided. This foundation of high standards and continuous inspiration has stayed with me throughout my career.

Currently, I am an agency-signed hairstylist and makeup artist, offering a comprehensive range of services to my clients. My dual expertise in hair and makeup allows me to streamline the process for clients, particularly valuable in recent years when the demand for efficiency has grown due to the pandemic. By providing both services, I eliminate the need for multiple professionals on set, which simplifies logistics and ensures a cohesive look.

What sets me apart in this competitive field is my extensive experience of over 25 years. This experience has honed my efficiency and exceptional time management skills, as well as a commitment to ongoing education. Whether it’s for a magazine spread, a movie character, or a music video, I consistently deliver the precise look and feel that clients envision.

One of my most proud accomplishments is being the original hairstylist for the viral video series “100 Years of Beauty.” This project involved creating a time-lapse video showcasing hairstyles from each decade over a century, starting with the USA and expanding globally. The series gained widespread attention, leading to my first feature in Vogue Magazine and numerous other prestigious publications. The most thrilling part was seeing celebrities like Britney Spears and Nicki Minaj share and celebrate the work, which was a significant moment in my career and a testament to the impact and reach of our creative efforts.

I want potential clients and followers to know that my dedication to my craft is unwavering. I combine artistic vision with practical expertise to create stunning and memorable looks, and I approach every project with the passion and precision it deserves. The success and recognition I’ve achieved are a reflection of my commitment to excellence and my love for the art of beauty.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative, especially in the fields of hairstyling and makeup artistry, is the constant opportunity for innovation and new beginnings. In this profession, there’s never a dull moment because every client, character, or project presents a fresh canvas and a chance to explore new creative possibilities. For someone like me who easily gets bored, this dynamic environment is invigorating. Each day offers the excitement of designing something unique and beautiful, tailored specifically to the individual needs and desires of the client.

There’s also something incredibly fulfilling about seeing a client’s face light up when they see their new look. It’s a moment of genuine joy and transformation, and it’s a powerful reminder of why I love what I do. Additionally, the anticipation and thrill of seeing my work published in a magazine or featured in a prominent setting—like seeing my work on a magazine cover—provide a profound sense of accomplishment. Knowing that my creativity has not only met but exceeded expectations and has been recognized in such a tangible way is truly unparalleled. These experiences affirm my passion for my craft and make every moment of hard work and dedication worthwhile.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building my social media audience began with a commitment to consistently posting a diverse range of content. Early on, I posted as much as I could, sharing everything from makeup transformations and hairstyling to special effects work and behind-the-scenes glimpses of my freelance projects. This variety helped keep my audience engaged, as there was always something new and interesting for them to see.

Mixing up the content was key. I shared everything from our set locations and the products I loved to interactive stories with questions and polls. These elements helped to not only showcase my work but also foster a sense of connection and engagement with my followers.

One of the challenges I faced was finding a balance between professional content and personal presence. Initially, I struggled with sharing personal aspects of my life because I’m more of a behind-the-scenes person. However, I realized that today’s audience craves a more personal connection. They want to get to know the person behind the work, not just the work itself. So, I started integrating more personal touches into my posts, and this shift has helped build a stronger connection with my audience.

For those just starting out, my advice is to put yourself out there and let your audience get to know you. Be authentic and share not just your work but also a bit about who you are. This personal touch can make a significant difference in how people connect with and engage with your content. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of posts and interactions. Social media is constantly evolving, so staying adaptable and responsive to your audience’s interests can help you grow and maintain a vibrant following.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.juelhairandmakeup.com
• Instagram: @juelhairnmakeup