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Check Out Theresa Lemke’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Theresa Lemke.

Hi Theresa, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Thank you for having me. I have been a hairstylist & makeup artist for the past 15 years. I started working in LA and came to Austin in 2007. I recall being fascinated with the details of hairstyling, bold colors in makeup and texture in fashion for as long as I can remember. In the second grade, the class would gather on the floor for reading time. I would ask the friend in front of me if I could play with their hair. That was how I taught myself to French braid. Imagine, a time with no youtube tutorials! When I was 10 I did my first perm on my grandma’s hair in the kitchen. Yes, that strong smelling stuff! That got me thinking. What if I used the perm solution on my own wavy hair but neutralized it while I combed it flat? I gave it a try and it worked. I had straight hair.  Even back then I loved the chemistry. I’ve experimented a lot with hair and makeup on anyone who would let me. I am the oldest of five girls and two boys. I was always trying to chase down one of my siblings yelling, “let me play with your hair!”. They weren’t always so cooperative. However, things have definitely changed since then and that’s been really fun. I think being the oldest of seven kids allowed me the space to learn all about a little thing called patience. There was never a dull moment! I think it’s served me well into my career today. I’ve had so many amazing experiences on my hair journey so far. It’s honestly been incredible.

One of the things I love about this industry is that the avenues really are endless. I’ve had the opportunity to teach various classes to fellow hairstylists. I love teaching so much. It brings out that nurturing momma bear side in me. I want to see everyone succeed. The best way we can do that is by growing together. Whether you have been a stylist for 25 years or just graduated from cosmetology school, everyone has something to offer. I have had the honor of mentoring 11 apprentices over the years. They taught me so much and I’m incredibly grateful for the bonds we have built. I’ve had the role of creative director, been part of several teams working New York Fashion week and acquired experience creating looks for film, editorials, as well as fashion photography.

I’m a big believer in continuing education and strive to have as many tools as possible. This allows me to provide my client with the best option for them. I don’t think that childlike curiosity in me will ever go away and I’m grateful for it. The desire to create these intricate styles through the medium of hair has just always been a part of me.  I love how the beauty industry has allowed me to channel my need to create while appeasing my technique-driven brain.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There are always challenges along the way. It is never linear. That used to throw me off. I’ve since learned to embrace it. My personal struggles were mainly in my own head. Self-doubt is a powerful roadblock. I often found myself with a negative internal dialogue. Is this something I can succeed at? Can I actually make a living? Ultimately, it never stopped me. It just slowed me down at times. In my opinion, it’s just as important to experience these obstacles as the actual successes themselves. They are all necessary pieces of the journey.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
You can currently find me creating behind the chair as an independent stylist at Salon 1601 in Austin,Texas. This is the first time I’ve owned my own business. I’m loving it. I work alongside a small team of like-minded, career-oriented stylists. I enjoy creating the dimensional colors of all shades and precision cutting. I have a passion for the French Balayage hair painting technique. I truly find great satisfaction in focusing and “geeking out” on the details. I spend quality time on all that I do. I am proud of my work and do so with integrity. This allows me to be consistent with my results. I’m very honest in managing expectations. I believe my clients really appreciate that. One thing that sets me apart from others is the ability to decipher what the client is trying to communicate. You may not know how to describe what you want. You may only know what you don’t want. You might show me five different pictures of five different styles. Just know I will take the time to figure out the one that works for you.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I appreciate that our city embraces all. Austin encourages the arts, music, film and festivals of all types. It’s a small city with a big vibe. I love that it offers so much nature, hiking and water right in the middle of downtown. There is rarely a shortage of things to do, see and eat! Full disclosure, I’ve become less of a fan of the inferno known as Texas summer but the rest of the year is gorgeous so I can’t complain too much.

Contact Info:


Image Credits
Bonnie Burke Photo Tyler Cochran Alejandro Osma Theresa Lemke

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