Today we’d like to introduce you to Liz Valadez.
Hi Liz, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve always been a creative person. I grew up in Los Angeles, where I built my career in the beauty industry over the past 20+ years. I trained at the Vidal Sassoon Academy and spent years refining my skills behind the chair while also working on creative projects, fashion shows, editorial shoots, and with clients from all walks of life. Those experiences taught me that hair is more than just a service—it’s a form of self-expression and confidence.
Five years ago, my husband and I made the move to Austin for a slower pace of life and a new adventure. Starting over in a new city wasn’t easy, but it pushed me to grow both personally and professionally. Today, I work at Bex. + Co., where I specialize in precision haircuts, personalized color, and creating styles that fit each client’s personality and lifestyle. Whether it’s a child’s first haircut, a fresh transformation, or simply helping someone feel like themselves again, I love building genuine relationships with the people who sit in my chair.
Outside of the salon, I’m still deeply passionate about art, fashion, and design. Creativity has always been the common thread throughout my life, and I don’t see that ever changing. Every chapter—from Los Angeles to Austin—has shaped who I am today, and I’m excited to keep evolving while doing work that I truly love.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I think that’s true for most people who choose to build something they’re passionate about.
One of the biggest challenges was moving from Los Angeles to Austin after spending 20 years of my career there. In Los Angeles, I had years of experience, connections, and a loyal clientele. Starting over in a new city meant rebuilding my business from the ground up, earning people’s trust one client at a time, and adapting to a completely different market.
Beyond my career behind the chair, I also had to reinvent myself creatively. Fashion has always been a huge part of who I am, and breaking into Austin’s fashion community wasn’t something that happened overnight. I had to put myself out there, meet new people, collaborate, and earn opportunities. Being part of local fashion shows and Austin Fashion Week has been incredibly rewarding because each experience reminded me that growth comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone. Building those relationships hasn’t always been easy, but the challenge only made me want it more.
On a personal level, the past year has also been incredibly challenging. My family has been navigating my mother’s dementia, and helping coordinate her care while living in another state has given me a whole new perspective on patience, resilience, and what truly matters. There have been moments where balancing work, family, and my own goals felt overwhelming.
Looking back, I wouldn’t change any of it. Every challenge has made me more resilient, more adaptable, and more grateful. It’s made me a better hairstylist, a stronger creative, and someone who truly appreciates every opportunity that comes my way.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At the heart of my work is personalization. I don’t believe there’s a “one-size-fits-all” haircut or color. Every person who sits in my chair has different features, hair texture, lifestyle, personality, and goals, so I believe their hair should reflect who they are—not just what’s trending.
My background extends beyond hairstyling into fashion, modeling, costume design, and editorial work, and those experiences have shaped the way I see beauty. When I’m creating a look, I’m not just thinking about the haircut. I’m looking at face shape, personal style, body proportions, how someone dresses, and even how they carry themselves. All of those details help me create something that feels authentic to them.
I’m known for precision haircutting and creating styles that grow out beautifully while remaining easy to wear. Whether it’s a subtle refresh or a complete transformation, my goal is always the same: to help my clients feel confident and comfortable in their own skin.
What I’m most proud of is the trust my clients place in me and my artistry. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone leave my chair standing a little taller because they feel seen, understood, and confident.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m always open to connecting with people who share a passion for creativity. Whether you’re looking for a hairstylist, planning a special event, producing a photoshoot, or putting together a fashion or editorial project, I love collaborating with photographers, makeup artists, designers, models, and other creatives to bring ideas to life.
If you’d like to work with me, you can learn more about me through my stylist profile on the Bex. + Co. Gateway website, where you can also book an appointment. You can also connect with me on social media to follow my latest work, creative collaborations, and upcoming projects. I’m always excited to meet new people and see where creativity can lead.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bexandcosalon.com/stylists/gateway-liz/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizandyourhair
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/natiive_twin
