Today we’d like to introduce you to Whitney LaBrecque.
Whitney, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
To be quite honest, if you had asked me 15 years ago what I’d be doing for a living I would have never guessed that I would be in the hair industry. I actually went to college for journalism and ended up taking a special effects hair and makeup class as an elective. It was fun and I took to it pretty naturally. It just kind of progressed from there. Eventually, I decided to look into a cosmetology school and went for a tour. There happened to be a new class starting that week, so I took in the entrance exam and started the following day without a second thought. I’m an Aries- leaping before looking is pretty on brand for me. It’s now been over 11 years since my journey in this industry began and I still find something new and special about it every day.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When you start in this industry you have this grandiose idea that you will make a ton of money right out of the gate and that you know everything. After I graduated cosmetology school, I went through a year long apprenticeship and worked for very little pay. There was definitely quite a bit of financial struggle in the beginning. I think that there are also some salons that take advantage of new stylists. This industry has a really high burnout rate. It can be emotionally/physically exhausting and if you’re not in a supportive work environment, you probably won’t last. For the last few years I have worked for myself and it was the most terrifying but best decision I’ve ever made. It’s empowering to have full creative freedom.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have been a hairstylist for 11 years, as well as being part owner of a bridal hair and makeup company called Cactus Blossom Beauty with two other stylists. I’d have to say my favorite part of my job is the human connections that are made. It’s about more than just hair. I have clients that have been with me since I started and I consider a lot of them friends now. Getting to know people from all different backgrounds and walks of life allows me to see and experience things from a different point of view, which I think is incredibly important in the world we live in. I think what sets me apart is my ability to connect deeply with people within a few minutes of meeting them, I not afraid to be vulnerable and I think that helps to put people at ease.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
This hair industry is very much like the fashion industry. Styles come in and out of popularity. Who could have guessed that MULLETS would be back!? But they are. I think that’s one of the greatest things about this industry, it’s just getting to have fun with your look. As for big shifts, I think after 2020 and the pandemic a lot of stylists are now opting for personal suites or very small salons. The days of chain salons might be coming to an end and I am all about it.
Contact Info:
- Email: Whitney@bohoaustin.com
- Website: Bohoaustin.com
- Instagram: Whitneylabrecquehair
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cactusblossombeauty/
