Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake Kissel.
Jake , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
A true artist at the core from very early on in my life. Anything creative caught my eye. Painting became my escape and way of life with trying to navigate the highschool years. My main medium now is hair. I have been in the industry 19 years. Graduated from one of the best hair schools in Evansville, Indiana. (T.S.P.A.)
I have taken on many rolls in the hair world and done some cool things. I have worked on a small local, low budget film in my home town. Became a national educator for a brand called, Pureology, Became co owner of a growing salon and soon became two locations. I relocated to Atlanta shortly after covid to be close to my brother and his family. I had left the salon I was at for so long and was a co owner of.
Once you move decide and then accomplish moving out of my small town, a feeling of invincibility took over me. I can do anything I want to do and go anywhere I decide. Maybe its the Aquarius gift I have kept and maintained a clientele this whole time I have been in Maryland of 14 years. My clients have been so loyal and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
Ive been working as a independant stylist for the past few years and I so love it. So much flexibility and more control. I now crave more control and independence, which now leads me to a little project. I am currently building out my own salon, with my vision and expression. Its been a exciting journey so far.
I also have several ideas and projects pertaining to the beauty industry that I am tinkering with at the moment.
A huge part of my success has always been rooted in goal setting. And along the way take up opportunities and experiences that can add to my skills and knowledge. Also helps to be good with savings and retirement. That a little bit of something I like to share with the new generation of beauty pros. Giving back and paying it forward is so important to me.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I have moved a lot and worked in so many salons and environments. They all have taught me lessons but there have been several hard situations and struggles that come along with it. Thats what gives me strength and the motivation to push past.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
The great thing about the hair industry is that you can be a chameleon. Forever changing with the trends. I used to be obsessed with hair sculpting and doing up-styles.
Now I really just enjoy lifestyle coloring and haircuts. I am also really passionate about adding hair systems for those that have lost hair or those that are thinning. I am lucky to wear one myself. The life changing services we get to do for clients is truly amazing as a creative.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
My retirement goal is to maybe serve coffee at a cafe somewhere in another country. And just get lost and let all the new experiences take over. What a sense of freedom that must feel. Just my positive take on the saying, “GET LOST”! Truly go somewhere totally unexpected and do just that.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/kisselssalon
- Other: https://tiktok.com/@kisselssalon
