Today we’d like to introduce you to Toilisha Carr
Hi Toilisha, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’m originally from Detroit, MI, and I began my career at the age of 13, working in the basement of my mother’s house, where I would practice and hone my skills on friends and family. My passion for hairstyling grew rapidly, and by the time I was 17, I obtained my cosmetology license through vocational school. This early start laid a solid foundation for my career, reinforcing my love for the art of hair.
Seeking greater opportunities, I later moved to Austin, TX, where I continued to pursue my dream by attending and graduating from Paul Mitchell Cosmetology School. My time there significantly expanded my knowledge and skills, allowing me to learn the latest techniques and trends in the industry.
After completing my education, I gained experience working in various salons and learning from talented mentors. I took every opportunity to expand my knowledge through workshops and advanced courses, which helped me establish a diverse skill set and a robust portfolio.
Eventually, I took the leap to start my own salon, where I strive to create a welcoming environment that empowers both my team and clients. Throughout my journey, I have faced challenges, but each experience has shaped me into the stylist I am today. I believe in continuous learning and staying current with industry trends, which keeps my work fresh and exciting.
I’m passionate about not just styling hair but also helping individuals express themselves through their look. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful for every client who has placed their trust in me along the way.
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?
One of the biggest challenges was building a client base when I first started. After moving to Austin, I found myself in a new city where I had no established connections. This required considerable effort in networking and marketing myself to attract clients. I often had to step out of my comfort zone, attending events and engaging with the community to showcase my work.
Additionally, the beauty industry can be quite competitive. Standing out among talented stylists was daunting, but I focused on continuous education and keeping up with the latest trends. There were times when I faced self-doubt and questioned whether I was good enough, especially when receiving constructive criticism or dealing with challenging clients.
Starting my own salon also came with its own set of hurdles. From managing finances and navigating the complexities of running a business to ensuring a positive atmosphere for my team and clients, I learned that entrepreneurship requires resilience and adaptability.
Despite these struggles, each challenge has contributed to my growth as a stylist and a business owner. I’ve learned valuable lessons and developed a strong support system of fellow stylists and mentors, which has been crucial in overcoming obstacles. Ultimately, I believe that the struggles I experienced have made me more passionate about my work and have reinforced my commitment to helping others feel their best.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
What truly sets me apart from other stylists is my rich background growing up in Detroit, Michigan—the hair capital of the world. Detroit has always been known for its hair and fashion, and being surrounded by some of the world’s best hairdressers has profoundly influenced my approach to hairstyling. The vibrant culture and high standards in hair artistry that I was exposed to growing up have shaped my skills and the way I view the beauty industry.
I believe that the consultation process is just as important as the actual styling. I spend time getting to know my clients, discussing their lifestyle, and taking into account their hair type and preferences to create tailored looks that suit them perfectly. This personalized approach, combined with the artistry I’ve honed from Detroit’s fashion-forward environment, allows me to deliver results that truly resonate with my clients.
I’m also proud of the community I’ve built around my salon. I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable and valued. Additionally, I’m passionate about sharing my knowledge with emerging stylists, often hosting workshops and mentoring them to help them grow in their careers.
Ultimately, my love for hairstyling and commitment to continual learning, along with my unique background, motivates me to stay current with industry trends while fostering a supportive community for my clients and fellow stylists.
What does success mean to you?
I define success as the ability to make a positive impact in the lives of others through my work. When clients leave my salon feeling confident and beautiful, that resonates deeply with me and is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Building lasting relationships with my clients and seeing them return time and again is a testament to the connection and trust we’ve built—this is a significant indicator of my success.
Additionally, I see success in my continuous growth as a stylist and entrepreneur. The beauty industry is always evolving, and I strive to adapt and improve by learning new techniques and trends. By investing in my education and sharing that knowledge with others, I feel fulfilled both personally and professionally.
Another aspect of success for me is creating a positive and inclusive environment in my salon. When my team feels inspired, valued, and empowered, it not only enhances our workplace culture but also translates into exceptional service for our clients. I take pride in mentoring emerging stylists and helping them develop their skills, which contributes to the overall success of our salon community.
Success is about making meaningful connections, fostering growth and creativity, and contributing positively to the lives of those around me. It’s a journey rather than a destination, and each achievement—big or small—brings me closer to this definition.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Styleseat.com/kouturedollz
- Instagram: Stylesbytoykouture
Image Credits
Prestige360
