
How to Build a Sustainable Beauty Career Without Burning Out
LifeSpa leader Ali Yanez explains why strong mentorship, predictable income, meaningful recognition and the right work environment help beauty professionals build careers that last.
Melanie Higgins-Day Seasons Salon and Spa, Lexington, Kentucky

Melanie Higgins-Day
Seasons Salon and Spa, Lexington, Kentucky
Background: Initially used trial and error, but also sought out stylists as mentors and trained with master stylist Philip Pelusi. Higgins-Day shifted her focus to curly hair last year after hosting a “You’ve Got Curls” workshop, which helped women understand the different curl types and the products appropriate for each type. Following the success of her workshop, Higgins- Day set up GotCurls.com, which features videos and photos of her work, plus a blog covering all things curly, kinky and wavy.
How She Markets Her Salon: Attending local fashion shows or fundraising events with curly- or textured-hair women has helped her drive traffic to the website and drum up new business. “I meet different women of different lifestyles and pass out my card,” says Higgins-Day. “I do curly hair of all textures.” Higgins-Day’s workshop drew curls of all types.
Her other marketing strategy is a large car magnet from VistaPrint, which promotes her website to passersby as she drives around town. Higgins-Day says, “I’ve had one client who has referred at least five people. She saw my magnet at Chili’s.”

Higgins-Day addressing the curlies at her “You’ve Got Curls” workshop.
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