Today we’d like to introduce you to Caroline Crosby.
Hi Caroline, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I always had a love for all things beauty – makeup especially. I never thought that I could make a career out of it, though. After struggling to figure out just where I fit in, I quickly realized that I needed to just take the plunge and enroll in a cosmetology program. My dad’s aunt (my great-aunt) has owned a salon in Savannah for over 50 years now. I grew up with a small taste of “beauty shop” life and I loved going to get my hair done there. After finishing cosmetology school, I worked at my aunt’s salon for a couple of years. While working there, I put myself through business school and obtained a business degree. I quickly fell in love with bridal hair and makeup and I knew that I wanted to specialize in that. I worked at a couple of different salons before venturing out on my own in 2020. I opened my suite in March 2020 right before salons got shut down due to the pandemic. It was so scary to go out on my own, but throw a pandemic shutdown in the mix and I had full-blown anxiety about it! Once salons were approved to reopen, I was busier than ever! It was so crazy! My business has been nonstop ever since and I enjoy every minute of it. I do weddings on the weekends with a small team of freelance artists and I am in studio doing cuts, colors, etc. during the week.
They have voted me Best of the Coastal Empire, Best of Georgia, and Best of Savannah two years in a row. I am in the running again this year. Without the support and love of my clients, I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish that. I have cultivated such an amazing, supportive clientele. I truly appreciate each and every person that walks into my studio or books me for their wedding day.
I have learned so much about myself in the last three years of running my own business by myself. It’s definitely not easy, but it is 110% worth it!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My career definitely hasn’t been a perfectly smooth road. In the beginning, I definitely struggled to find where I fit in the industry. I worked with some people who didn’t have the same drive and goals as I did, but looking back, that ultimately made me a better stylist. I try not to look at things in a negative light because if my road didn’t have a few bumps and potholes, I wouldn’t know what I know now. I wouldn’t be as open and willing to help other stylists. I definitely don’t think I would be as successful as I am today if I didn’t go through the not so pretty parts of the beauty industry.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in blonding and special event hair and makeup. During the week my studio is open for cuts, colors, etc. and my weekends and filled with beautiful bridal parties.
I love taking beautiful people and making them feel their absolute best. It truly brings me joy to be able to get to know my clients and brides. I genuinely care about each and every individual that sits in my chair to get “Dolled Up.”
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Bridal Beauty Confidence Podcast The Messy Hairstylist Podcast.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dolledupbycaroline.com
- Instagram: _dolledupbycaroline_
Image Credits
Alyssa Tootle Photography Sweet Peony Photography Bethany Renee Photography
