Today we’d like to introduce you to Leah Greer.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Leah. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve always had a creative heart and the urge to make anything and everything with my hands, although I didn’t quite know how to express myself as an artist, nor could I find something I was good at. After dabbling in a few majors in college, I realized the normal classroom environment was never going to be my cup of tea. I started cosmetology school in April 2013 and threw myself into everything I possibly could. Suddenly, my wheels were turning, and I was straight up flourishing. I graduated in April 2014 with honors and an award for most creative, and immediately started my job at Salon Modello where I have been ever since.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Cosmetology school was probably the most terrifying year of my life thus far. I was extremely reclusive and introverted towards strangers, hadn’t found my calling yet, and was worried about failing yet another one of my career paths. My confidence came with knowledge and not faking it like everybody else tells you to do. I worked hard and in turn I flourished and was finally able to become confident, which then projected directly onto my clients and teachers. My advice for young women just starting their journey is to embrace the process. It’s okay to change your mind and experiment until you find something truly worth fighting for.
Please tell us about your business.
I practice and array of hair and makeup services, but specialize in hair color and updos/styling. People often comment on my creative eye and attention to detail, as well as me being a little bit of a color formulation nut (I love me some math). I’m the proudest of the fact that I can make such a powerfully positive impact on a single day/week/life. I understand the importance of being listened to, understood, and on top that, feeling beautiful. There’s a pretty significant change in my confidence level and social skills when I walk into work, because it’s where I feel the most confident. Clients absorb that energy and it allows them to trust me.
Who have you been inspired by?
My mother is one of my sole inspirations, and the reason I have come as far as I have today. She raised my 2 brothers and me almost entirely herself, and was still able to maintain a wildly successful career in social work. Through all of my ups and downs, she’s consistently stood by my side and supported each life decision I’ve made, even the mistakes she knew I needed to make. She taught me the importance of hard work and kindness, and continues to set the standard for a FIERCELY independent woman.
Contact Info:
- Email: leggreer@gmail.com
- Instagram: greerios.muah
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.