So, get to know our girl a little better!
How did you first get into hair?
How would you describe our work?
I like for my work to appear seamless and natural. In my opinion, making minor enhancements to what you naturally have-makes the most impact, is the most forgiving to your hair, and is the least maintenance. I'm all about making my clients feel cared for, and beautiful for who they are organically. I really try to nurture each relationship I have with every person who sits in my chair so that I can create a look that coincides with their life style and always remains respectful of their schedules and budgets. Instead of going for something drastic and potentially damaging, I tend to opt for a softer, more detailed approach, that I feel ultimately appears the most custom tailored to each individual. Of course, there's always that special client, where we both feel something funky would better represent their personality! In those instances I'm not afraid to think outside of the box.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
I would probably say my biggest inspiration is my father. He moved to NYC from the island of Cyprus when he was 20 with only $100 in his pocket. He was a refugee at the age of 12 and worked on his families farm until he went into the army, and eventually college in the states (which my grandmother really didn't like). When he met my mom-all odds were against him. He never let anyone's opinions of their relationship get in the way of his goals and dreams. When I was 2 years old my dad moved our family to Las Vegas to open a New York Deli. The Bagel Cafe is his second home. His dedication to his business is awe-inspiring and completely driven by his love for his family. I'll never forget the years I spent working there together. Opening the restaurant with him was always my favorite. I would prepare the register while my dad sat at the counter and ate frosted flakes with steamed milk and honey. He's taught me that working hard should never be something to fear, and that being kind in an unkind world is only sometimes recognized-but always worth it.
Where have you never been but are dying to go?
Lately, I've been dying to go to Patagonia. It looks like everything I look for in a destination. Seclusion, nature, and great food + wine.
What are your future plans?
My future plans are to keep making people feel beautiful and to hopefully move to my favorite little city an hour and half up north! I hope to travel lots with my sweet boyfriend Frazier and I also look forward to building a family. I love cooking, but I always accidentally make enough for a family of 5. Doing things for my community brings me a lot of joy, so I imagine I'll always have a portion of my life dedicated to service. I just want a simple life filled with great personalities, beauty, food, and creativity! Recently, of course, I've combined my love for beauty, nature and helping people by co-conspiring to create RA_POTHECARY! [EDITOR'S NOTE: Big things to come. She's being modest.]