Learn why these professional hair stylists chose the beauty industry and how they're making a difference.

JILL GUIN, Owner of Darling Bride, Orange County, California

Why did you choose beauty?
"I knew since I was little that I'd be in the fashion industry, I just never thought I'd be in beauty. As a teenager, I always knew I was different-I could never do what everyone else was doing or thinking, even if I wanted to. For me, there was no choice in which direction I went, everything was by chance. I just happened to be good at styling hair and everything since then has fallen into place perfectly. The driving force for me is to see how easily you can make someone look interesting and beautiful."

Tell us about a recent accomplishment.
"I did a photo shoot in the middle of the Las Vegas desert! I have always loved driving through the desert, and when I was invited to the WPPI Photographer Convention in Las Vegas, that's exactly what I got. They set up an old, white Victorian couch on a zebra rug with a crystal chandelier and a stained mirror bar on top of a dried-up lake, with the red desert all around us. The energy of the natural
desert complemented those beautiful pieces. The hair was much more challenging than I'd hoped! It was extremely windy and they were going for a OO7 look. The model had a slinky black dress and her hair was rolled
on each side into a bun in the back. All she did was step out of the car and the wind took over! It turned out great though!"

What advice do you have for new stylists?
"My best advice for someone getting into the beauty industry is the same for someone who's getting out of high school or retiring. I believe in constant inspiration and education. I take tons of classes on everything and anything I want to learn about. I just took a class on using my Mac and I was so inspired that I went home and spent the next week setting up an e-mail database for my clients. I take classes on cutting, styling, color, business, gardening, cooking and even making natural cleaning supplies. You have to be confident and
excited to try new things."

SILVIA GALLO NUNES, Editorial Hair Stylist, based in Washington D.C.

Why did you choose beauty?
"My mother is most definitely the reason I found a career path in the beauty industry. I am grateful she recognized I was a very social young person. I think it was the combo of my need to socialize and my passion for cutting my own hair (and Barbie's) that inspired her to sign me up for a field trip to the local vocational center. Twenty three years later, I continue to feel a great sense of pride when I share that I am a hair stylist."

Tell us about a recent accomplishment.
"I recently had an amazing and fun opportunity to join the talented fashion photographer Scott Bryant and his team on a photo shoot. We traveled to the British Virgin Islands to shoot a swimsuit calendar for the Washington Wizards dance team. Working with other artists on location in a beautiful environment beats a cubicle any day! Sorry, office peeps, hair stylists have more fun!"

What advice do you have for new stylists?
"I can't say enough to people I encounter seeking information about a career in beauty. According to Ralph Waldo Emerson, ‘Love of beauty is taste. The creation of beauty is art.' If you're looking for a career without walls, join us. You will never, ever have a boring day. Search out an environment that mentors, and is committed to your personal and professional growth and happiness."