This month we feature one of our full-time cosmetology students, Stormie Church. Since the initial start of her training in July 2019, Stormie has captured the hearts of our staff, educators, students, and guests. Not only is she a talented photographer, but she is leveling up in the world of cosmetology as each day passes.
We asked Stormie a few questions about her journey at Summit Salon Academy – Gainesville and where she plans on taking her career after graduation!
What inspired you to pursue a career in cosmetology?
Ever since I was a kid, I loved dolling my mom up and dressing up like the Spice Girls with my cousin, but I never really put that much thought into it. Later on, when I started working at a beauty supply store I realized that I actually really enjoyed helping people learn how to enhance their natural beauty. I’m also inspired by one of my very best friends, Mallari Collums. She currently has her own salon and is definitely my role model when it comes to my future career in cosmetology!
What’s your favorite service to do?
That’s a close call between highlights, sculpting hair, and facials. If I’m being completely honest though, I would have to say sculpting. At first, I was intimidated for obvious reasons, but with the help of all of our talented instructors, I’ve been able to tackle some pretty scary cuts! The most challenging and rewarding technique that I’ve had to conquer was interior layering, but it paid off and she’s now a returning client!
What advice can you give to future students?
There are three things: first would be to come to school willing to learn. There are going to be some things that you don’t know and you may think you don’t want to know, but you could end up loving it. Second, it would be to have empathy for each other; this includes our instructors, the clients, and yourself. You never know what someone’s going through in their private life. Finally, my third piece of advice would be that fear is an opportunity for growth! So get out there and step out of your comfort zone.
What’s the craziest service you have done so far?
At the moment, the craziest service I’ve done would be taking someone from a Natural Level 2 to a full head of Platinum highlights. My client had hair to the middle of her back and I must have done like 40 foils. It took me 5 hours and a little bit of back pain, but the payoff was worth it!
What are your plans after graduation?
I’ll probably try to get a job at a local salon at first, build my clientele, and eventually incorporate both my love for photography and love for makeovers. Until I can do that, I’ll happily work anywhere that will take me, simply because I love what I do.
If you would like to book Stormie for a service, you can reach our Front Desk by calling (352) 331-2424, by emailing frontdesk@ssag.edu, or requesting a service online.
Follow Stormie’s Journey in Cosmetology:
Instagram: @haircult_
Follow Stormie’s Photography:
Instagram: @Church.Fotos
Website: https://churchfotos.pixieset.com/
