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

Makayla, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?

A risk I took in 2022 was quitting my job to enroll in cosmetology school. Here’s the backstory: I was working in a well-paying financial position as a branch manager, surrounded by amazing coworkers. However, I came to a difficult realization that my life felt incomplete working in an office that didn’t allow me to express my creativity. Don’t get me wrong, I was always decorating and celebrating the different holidays, but it was not my full potential. I believe there is much more to life than just waking up and going to work. (They say love what you do, and you won’t work a day in your life, it is so true!) I resigned in July and wouldn’t start school until September. Transitioning from a stable paycheck to having no income at all was terrifying. I had to commit fully to my new career path. While in school five days a week for 35 hours, I relied on my husband to manage all the expenses, and we had no extra income during those 11 months. To say we made a complete lifestyle change is an understatement. Despite the challenges, it was a risk I was willing to take, and I am so glad I did! I will never look back. It worked out in the long run and I learned how to trust in myself and my abilities more than I could have ever imagined.

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 consider my craft to be special occasion hairstyling. In high school, I often helped my friends with their prom hairstyles, and I knew I would become a cosmetologist someday. My friends and family always told me I was destined for this path because I had a natural talent for it! I began my education with the big dream of opening my own salon. However, halfway through the program, I realized that what I truly wanted to do was styling, not cutting or coloring. I was drawn to the artistic ability to transform hair into a masterpiece.

My start into this industry was inspired by a school friend who told me it was possible. After completing all the required coursework to graduate, I spent countless hours watching tutorials, practicing on a mannequin, and recruiting people to refine my styling skills. From there, I decided to specialize exclusively in special hairstyling.

As a specialized hairstylist, I offer a variety of styles, each customized to meet my guests’ wants and needs. Typically, clients bring in inspiration photos, and we work together, section by section, to bring their vision to life, enhancing the elements they love and eliminating those they don’t. I have styled many weddings, quinceanera, Photoshoots, and formals, featuring different types of updos, buns, party ponies, half-up styles with accessories, and in 2024, Hollywood waves became a popular choice. Each style is unique, depending on the individual wearing it, making the experience truly customized.

What sets me apart is my patience. I strive to create a peaceful and safe environment for each guest. I understand that sometimes it’s difficult to express what you want, and other times you may not know until you see it! I work hard to reassure my guests that everything we create can be altered or adjusted. For example, I had a bride who scheduled three trials, and while the final look was stunning on her wedding day, it took us a few attempts to truly understand her vision—and that’s perfectly okay!

In another instance, I had a guest who was attending a five-day wedding. On the first day, she had a specific style in mind but no photos to reference. I did my best to create what I thought would suit her, but it didn’t quite hit the mark. We started over and eventually got it just right. Interestingly, on the last day, she opted for the very first style I had created! This experience shows that how you handle yourself in stressful situations can earn trust and respect, ultimately leading to friendships!

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

Social media is a hard one for me. In the beginning I followed all hairstylist, photographers, and makeup artists in the area. I continue to as more recommendations come up. If I work an event with other vendors, I ask for their information to follow and see what they are up to! It is a great networking tool. I am not a technology fan, but understand that you have to have social media presence in order to be seen and showcase your work. Think of it as a portfolio. I try to remember that the key to a good social media account is being yourself, learning how to capture photos that people want to see, and really honing in on what you want to attract in your business. Taking good photos has upped my game! Making sure the back ground is clutter free and simple. Lots of people I know use algorithms and branding colors, which works for them! There are tons of informational videos on YouTube to help with these things! The best thing you can do is utilize all of your resources. In the 2025 year one of my goals is to understand social media a little bit better.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

The best source of clients for me, have been referrals. When you do a good job with one bride she tells all of her friends and family. A reputation really helps! I just signed up for the Knot and WeddingWire which have been sending me leads as well, but nothing compares to my network of friends and acquaintances.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://leadinglady.online
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadinglady_/profilecard/?igsh=MTFxZzZibXBxY3B6NQ==

Image Credits

Amanda Overton
Morgan Bolinger
alanabelovephotography