2019 MODERN SALON 100: Montana Schmidt @paintslikeschmidt

First, we love her Instagram handle. Second, we adore beautiful balayage work and, third, we can’t stop staring at her feed.  Meet Montana Schmidt.

Montana Schmidt

@paintslikeschmidt

Kevin and Co For Hair, Danville IL

Specialty: Balayage

Top-performing post: It was the most unique bright color I’ve ever posted. Also the unique shot of the braid vs. the full picture of the color is so different than what I usually post that I think it made a difference on why it attracted so much engagement.

Favorite apps: Over. I use this app to crop in and sharpen my images if needed to get the best details on my pictures. I like how you can also rotate the images to help center them more. I also use this for my side-by-side before and after shots so you can blur to blend the images rather than having the definitive separation of images. Also, I like being able to add logos if necessary. Layout. I love to use this app to create a post where I want to post more than one image to compare. It’s simple and very easy to use. Quik- I love to use this app to edit my videos of my colors. It’s easy to use and you can add some fun effects and music to spice things up.

I follow: @aaashleee, @wesdoeshair, @jordanheidenwith_hair, @larisadoll, @salsalhair

Pro tip: In my experience, the best way to get results on a post is to mix things up but not too much if that makes sense. Most of my page is still color related, but I try to post a video, before and after, processing pic, etc., every once in a while, rather than just the finished product image to switch things up but to still stay on theme with my page. I’ve also noticed changing up hashtags helps me get more engagement. You definitely need consistency with your work to get more engagement on your page.

Hidden talent: I love to do facial threading, and it has become such a huge thing since I got my license. I picked up some 100% cotton and practiced on, of all things, my legs. Ouch! But hey, it was worth it. My clients love how they don’t have to drive 45 minutes anymore to get their eyebrows threaded.

Fun fact: I am very musical! I come from a music family, so for as long as I can remember, music has been a part of me. I sing, dance, play piano, guitar, flute and piccolo.

My audience follows me because: I try to support and engage with everyone who has popped up on my notifications. I try to respond to all comments and messages and to give back support when some is given to me. I never could have imagined the relationships I’ve established through Instagram, but it’s incredible and rewarding to know such amazing people.

How social media changed my life: When I started doing hair, Instagram was barely an app that was used; Facebook was more used at the time. So, when I first started this profession, I had to do the old-fashioned way of gaining clients by word of mouth and passing out my business cards everywhere I went. Once social media became a huge way to sponsor yourself, I completely changed my clientele for the better. Color is my passion and with Instagram I was able to direct my clients to an everyday color project. I no longer do perms or relaxers, and I only have a few clients left that are strictly cuts. I’ve been able to book out far enough that I’ve been able to cut my hours and spend time with my family more. I couldn’t be more grateful for the hard work I’ve put into this passion of mine.

My first @modernsalon feature: I was so excited the first time I was featured on @modernsalon! One of my sweetest, favorite clients was the shot that got me featured. We always do fun brunette tones. I remember waking up to go to the gym to the notification that @modernsalon featured me. I immediately messaged @jenniferlopiccolo_hair, and I remember how happy she was for me!