MENU
SEARCHRicardo Santiago is the type of stylist that believes in doing it all, but it was a huge step when he took this philosophy beyond techniques and decided to try his hand at starting his own independent business.
Instagram: @stylistricardosantiago
Cut & Style: $70-90
Single process color: $120-200
Favorite products right now: I absolutely love Joico's Blonde Life System, as well as Joico Luster Lock, which is a game changer of a conditioning masque.
Most used tool: Olivia Garden Cara Shears
Advice to other Solo Artists: “Prioritize your character. To be talented is one thing, but to be a relatable and kind person with integrity is another. Both are essential to true success. Also, don't ever think you kn
With nearly 50k followers on Instagram and a page full of stunning vibrant color, well-blended colormelts and precision-carved undercuts, it seems that there is nothing Orlando stylist Ricardo Santiago cannot do. However, when it came time to dive into the business of doing beauty independently, he admits that it was daunting stepping into this uncharted territory.
“I was hesitant to lose the security of the commission salon even though I knew I had the client base to support being on my own,” says Santiago. “When things at the salon I was at came to an end, I jumped into an opportunity to open a studio of my own. It was definitely a little scary at first, but there is something so liberating and exciting about being able to do what you want, how you want, when you want.”
For Santiago, maintaining relationships with clients and having the support of his wife/business partner were essential to his success as a Solo Artist. Running an independent business does not mean working alone; it means building a personalized network of beauty professionals that can be called on for support.
“Being a solo artist has opened more doors and opportunities than I could have ever imagined. It was hands down the best decision I ever made for my career.”
LifeSpa leader Ali Yanez explains why strong mentorship, predictable income, meaningful recognition and the right work environment help beauty professionals build careers that last.
Whether a beauty professional chooses a commission salon, booth rental, salon suite or salon ownership, the common thread is having more choices than ever before.
Sport Clips Haircuts will host its inaugural "Level Up Live," a first-of-its-kind virtual event that combines live haircutting education, career inspiration, product knowledge, and employment opportunities for licensed stylists and cosmetology students nationwide.
Orthopedic PT reveals three daily exercises plus ergonomic advice that can help salon professionals avoid the aches and injuries caused by standing, bending and repetitive overhead work.
Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!
Salon suite pioneer Karen Kaminski argues that the next evolution of independent beauty businesses won't be defined by beautiful spaces alone, it will be driven by smarter systems that help professionals spend less time on administrative work and more time serving clients.
At a time when many LGBTQ+ people felt compelled to hide parts of themselves, Carlos Valenzuela found a career in beauty and a community that offered opportunity based on what you could do and how well you could do it.
Whether it's social media, fashion, film, art, or culture, Chaz Dean advises stylists to stay aware of what's inspiring people. Take the elements that make sense for you in these five lessons learned through a life in beauty.
For Jessica Domoney, building a successful career isn't about saying yes to every opportunity, it's about protecting your time, investing in yourself and creating an experience clients won't forget.
MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.
"The mistake people make is treating AI like a vending machine instead of a personal assistant." Digital marketing expert Scott Moon shares how beauty professionals can use AI while staying authentic
Real-world advice on creativity, consultations, color, burnout, business, boundaries, inclusivity, client care, and career growth from educators and industry experts.
Real-world advice on creativity, consultations, color, burnout, business, boundaries, inclusivity, client care, and career growth from educators and industry experts.
Today's clients are hearing more about longevity, biohacking, inflammation, and healthy aging than ever before. This article explores the science and language behind the skin longevity movement, and what it could mean for client consultations, treatment recommendations, and professional credibility.
Licensed to Thrive, Anna Manukyan's all-in-one beauty career and financial masterclass, is being gifted to professionals who enroll in L'Oreal LEVEL Rewards for a limited time.
From breaking free of external validation to creating joy-based goals, discover a more sustainable and fulfilling path to success.
A full day of education for hairstylists and salon pros focused on pricing, personal branding, client experience, social media, and long-term career growth.
