This National Hairstylist Appreciation Day, we’re celebrating the Cécred stylists whose impact goes beyond the chair–empowering every client in their sacred hair journey.
From Neal Farinah to Dr. Kari Williams, our favorite stylists share a bit about their journey and their best tips for stylists just beginning their careers.
Neal Farinah, Cécred Lead Global Stylist
Neal Farinah, owner of Neal Farinah Salon, Lead Global Stylist at Cécred, and Beyoncé’s longtime stylist, is the innovator behind some of the most iconic hair moments throughout our founder’s career, from the Drunk in Love bob to the Cowboy Carter platinum press.
What does National Hairstylist Appreciation Day mean to you as a stylist?
We stylists work so hard and give so much. We deserve a day! Stylists put so much intention into what we do, and bring a lot of joy with it. For me, it’s really important to show appreciation and gratitude to the people that make all this magic happen.
What's the best part about being a stylist?
Oh my god–where do I start? I get to do magic every day, and transform hair into art. It’s like having a blank canvas, and getting to bring my vision to life every day. That’s my favorite part.
What's one tip you'd give to a stylist just starting out?
It’s crucial you open yourself up to knowledge, and be humble. In this industry, being humble will take you a long way. It’s so valuable to learn from the other stylists around you, and I think my eagerness to learn and study got me so far in my career.
What's the most unexpected thing you love about being a stylist?
The challenge! I love the challenge of always being tasked to try new things, push boundaries, and ultimately create the best art I can make.
Dr. Kari Williams, Trichologist and Cécred Director of Education
Dr. Kari Williams, Trichologist and Director of Education at Cécred, brings over 20 years of experience in the hair industry as a licensed barber, cosmetologist, and inventor of Goddess Locs.
What does National Hairstylist Appreciation Day mean to you as a stylist?
It’s a nice reminder that what we do really matters. It’s not just about hair—but we touch people's lives. We spend so much time on our feet in the salon for long hours, juggling schedules, listening, nurturing, stretching our artistry... all of it. With all the work we do it's easy to forget how much of an impact we make. It feels good to be recognized for the way we help people feel like the best version of themselves. Today is a chance to reflect, celebrate the craft, and give a little love to the community of stylists who pour their talent and energy into every client, every day.
What’s the best part about being a stylist?
The best part is the opportunity to spend intimate time with so many different people. It’s the connection and trust that comes with someone letting you into their personal space—sometimes for hours—while you care for them in such a hands-on, meaningful way. On top of that, it’s this amazing mix of creativity and human connection—no two days are the same, and no two clients are either. It keeps things exciting, rewarding, and full of purpose.
What’s one tip you’d give to a stylist just starting out?
One of the most important tips I’d give to a new stylist is to take care of your body. This career is physically demanding, and if you don’t prioritize your health early on, it can cut your time behind the chair short. Invest in comfortable shoes, and be mindful of how you stand throughout the day. A supportive stool you can rest on when possible is a game-changer. Don’t skip on self-care either: ice your hands, wear compression socks or sleeves, and listen to your body. You’ve got big goals and dreams in this industry—taking care of yourself is what makes them sustainable.
What’s the most unexpected thing you love about being a stylist?
The unexpected—but incredibly rewarding thing about being a stylist is the level of trust people place in you. There’s something about the salon chair that creates a space where clients feel safe to open up. Over time, those conversations evolve into real relationships—built on vulnerability, consistency, and care.
These moments solidify how my work as a stylist is primarily about human connection. The bonds formed with my clients often lead to deeper opportunities, both personal and professional. From being a confidante to becoming part of life milestones—weddings, transformations, recoveries—I'm woven into people’s stories in a way that’s impactful. That depth of trust is something that continues to be one of the most fulfilling parts of my career.
Brandon Prowell, Cécred Pro Affiliate
What does National Hairstylist Appreciation Day mean to you as a stylist?
It’s a touching reminder that hairstylists do much more than hair; we provide confidence, transformation, healing, and connection. We constantly pour out energy physically and emotionally, so it is an absolute honor to be acknowledged for what we do daily.
What’s the best part about being a stylist?
The transformation inside and out. I love witnessing someone elevate after seeing themselves in the mirror, especially when it’s deeper than "the style." Expanding my services to help holistically support my client's well-being as a certified trichologist makes me love being a stylist even more.
What’s one tip you’d give to a stylist just starting out?
Stay curious and constantly live in educational spaces. When you give of yourself as we do, you have to replenish to avoid burnout. Techniques can be learned, but how you apply them can impact how you make someone feel, which lasts forever.
What’s the most unexpected thing you love about being a stylist?
The connections. Clients open up in our chairs in the most interesting ways. I never expected to become part stylist, “therapist," adopted son, nephew, and brother, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.
Ebony Gordon, Cécred Pro Affiliate
What does National Hairstylist Appreciation Day mean to you as a stylist?
It’s a reminder that what we do matters. We don’t just style hair—we uplift spirits, build trust, and create safe spaces. I feel honored to be appreciated for work that comes from both my hands and my heart.
What’s the best part about being a stylist?
I look at every client in my chair as a “celebrity.” Hearing their stories, sharing their highs and lows, and being trusted to care for their crown—that’s the true reward. The magic happens when creativity meets connection. That’s when we stop being stylists and become part of someone’s journey.
What’s one tip you’d give to a stylist just starting out?
Prioritize good energy and customer service. Your vibe is your brand. People may come for the style, but they return for how you made them feel. Build that connection and the loyalty will follow.
What’s the most unexpected thing you love about being a stylist?
How much clients pour into me. The exchange of energy, encouragement, and life lessons—it’s deeper than hair. Some clients become family, mentors, and mirrors. They remind me why I started and why I’ll always be in the beauty industry.
Ashley Castillo, Cécred Pro Affiliate
Ashley Castillo, owner and founder of Avec L’amour salon in New York City and Pro Ambassador at Cécred, has been a stylist for 6+ years. She founded Avec L’amour to help others embrace their natural waves, curls, and coils.
What does National Hairstylist Appreciation Day mean to you as a stylist?
To me, National Hairstylist Appreciation Day is a day that makes me feel proud to have chosen a path where I feel I help my community feel beautiful and confident
What’s the best part about being a stylist?
To me, the best part about being a stylist is the connection I make with my clients and guiding them through their healthy curly hair journeys. We all have been through our fair share of hair trauma, so being that trusted go-to stylist makes me feel super special and honored. That stylist-to-client relationship is one of the most Cécred connections we have.
What’s one tip you’d give to a stylist just starting out?
My biggest tip to new rising stylists would be to be yourself, find your niche, and stick with it, but never stop learning–whether that’s strictly doing color, silk presses, or becoming a curl specialist. There’s NOTHING more fulfilling than doing exactly what you love and perfecting your craft.
What’s the most unexpected thing you love about being a stylist?
Honestly, the emotional rollercoaster my clients show through their visits with me. I get to see them go from being anxious about getting their first curly cut or hear their previous experiences to watching them completely explode with happiness and tears after seeing their transformations. It’s the most rewarding part for me.