We recently connected with Katie Reader and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Katie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What sort of legacy are you hoping to build. What do you think people will say about you after you are gone, what do you hope to be remembered for?

As someone who works toward building a legacy, that mirrors my everyday ideals of ambition mixed with compassionate realism, this question resonates with me. Besides the obvious of bringing happiness and making people feel good on the most important days of their lives- I hope people remember how much I truly love what I do. Not only do I get to play a role in special days- I am a listening ear for a lot of big life moments. I hope people remember that I care about them, their family and their life. As important as it is for me to execute their desired looks… I also care deeply that people are doing well and are happy before and beyond that moment.

Katie, 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 name is Katie Reader and I have been a hair stylist for 17 years. I started this profession because of my love for the beauty industry. Not long into my career I realized a problem brides face is a fear of their perfect look not being achieved. Hair previews help put a bride’s mind at ease but making someone’s hair look great is only part of the job. Making people feel good about themselves, inside and out, is truly the accomplishment. As a bridal/special event stylist, I am with people on some of their biggest and most important days. One thing I have learned is that achieving my clients desired look for the day is very important, however, obstacles come with life and being a listening ear is something I strive for. In my industry your work sets you apart, but approaching the job from a grounded, human level can make you a stand alone. I have pride in my work, like no other, but what I am most proud of is being a mother and raising my son, Kai, to be a caring, kind and ambitious human. Great work will always speak for itself, but ensuring future generations continue on a path of positivity and decency is what is most important.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I am always 100% honest. I will tell you if something will work well, what we can do to achieve a look, or if we need to totally shift gears. Clients often tell me how much they appreciate this.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

When you start your career in the beauty industry no one knows who you are or what you’re capable of. You’re forced to learn the ins and outs quickly and meet client expectations daily- all while hoping someone ends up in your chair the next day. For me, in the beginning, word of mouth was everything. With the evolution of social media, the decision to utilize platforms for business was a game changer. Potential clients want to see your work and read reviews about you. My work on social media is often shared with others and this has helped me grow so much. I am forever grateful for the people who share my work with others and take the time to review my business after working with us.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.katiereaderhair.com
• Instagram: @katiereaderhair
• Facebook: Katie Reader Hair

Image Credits

Headshot- cosgrovefilms (@cosgrovefilms)