Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma Nare.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Emma. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I started lucky. I must say: I owe everything to the people who have contributed to my growth and success. My story begins at art school, studying painting; where you can never be too self-expressive, but it was seemingly leading down the road of excessively broke and starving artist.
Living off student loan lunch cards & sitting in as a hair model during education nights at Toni & Guy just to score a free haircut was getting exhausting. It was there that I realized – having an already extensive knowledge in 3D design and color really allowed for the possibility to become a successful hairdresser. I opted out of hair school, it felt less intimate and one on one to me. After an extremely rigorous 2 year apprenticeship consisting of working every day for knowledge and experience, I found myself on the floor of a great salon building an incredible clientele. After 9 years of working for the same mentor: I was ready for a huge change.
In May this year, I made the decision to go out my own and become an Independent Stylist. I’m positive that the only reason I’ve gotten where I am today is because I had the good fortune of being surrounded extremely talented individuals who inspired and taught me, combined with my intense dedication and hard work. Passing on knowledge is the best form of practice, and I hope to one day inspire and help students, just like I was in my beginnings.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Oof. Struggle is a friend of mine at this point! Life has shown me some irreparable losses over the years, to the point of my therapist even commending my resilience. At times, things were anything but ideal. However, giving up was never an option for me! I’ve been on my own since I was very young which one could say is a blessing and a curse!
Through the many lefts and rights that life presents, my journey has been absolutely essential to me discovering my future and who I am! My path and “destiny” is for a reason – I am here and alive to make anyone and everyone feel their absolute best!!
So my advice to anyone and everyone is to understand that struggle is growth and we will all face it one way or another – but it’s all about the way you choose to see what is right in front of you: and how much potential you have… The more you desperately want to be rich, the more poor and unworthy you feel.
That’s what it’s all about, staying HUMBLE and knowing struggling through your fears and anxieties is what allows you to build courage and perseverance. & that’s life. Stare struggle in the face and shove your middle finger at it! It will make you invincible!
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I define myself as a hair stylist and barber, but it’s so much more than that. I deal with people’s identities every day – the inner and outer self. I’m utilizing my art and design background on a daily basis, and that’s so satisfying to combine it with wonderful people and hair. I truly customize shapes and colors for each individual.
My client base is extremely diverse and that is something I’m most proud of. I take care of any and all clients, regardless of age, orientation, background, gender, etc. I strive to make each individual’s experience simply unforgettable. I also pride myself in working in one of the most inviting, professional, clean, and welcoming hair salons in the city.
Adrianne Smith and the rest of my coworkers at Akasa Salon in Edgewood were voted best neighborhood salon, and I couldn’t agree more. You can feel our creative energy when you walk in the door.
As for my specific skill set – I’m a fully versed barber, with no limits as to what can or can’t be done, color specialist, and maintenance professional. From the tiniest trim to the most significant change yet, your experience will be an absolutely top-notch and a breeze! Drastic or subtle, blonde or brunette, short or long… I can adapt to change and understand the lastest the next step in fashion. Continued education keeps me and my skills relevant and sharp – never stop learning! It’s what defines us and brings us together.
I’m proud I’m still in the game! I could have quit many times. My pain determined my success.. causing personal growth which made it easier for me to connect with clients again. I’m proud those clients leave my chair feeling like the ultimate version of themselves.
What were you like growing up?
Needless to say, as a kid, I was that girl who skipped classes to go hang out in the art room. All I wanted to do in my free time was paint! not much has changed. The youngest of four, I lived in the shadows of my brothers and sister until after high school. home life was rough. I grew up quick couch surfing starting at 15.
I gained some really tough skin and convinced myself I didn’t need anything for anyone. I was rebellious and full of resentment… This mindset was hard to conquer until I met the right guy, to be honest. He’s a gem. anyways… Painting is still the only thing that calms me down when my mind and emotions are going crazy.
Pricing:
- Ladies cut $65
- Male cut $50
- Partial highlight $130+ (W/ cut $195+)
- Full highlight $160+ (W/ cut $225+)
- Single process $80 (W/ cut $150)
- Double process $180+ (W/ cut $245+)
- Bleach & Tone $160 (W/ cut $225)
- Balayage $190+ (W/ cut $250+)
- Extensions: require consultation
- Keratin Smoothing $250+ (W/ cut $315+)
Contact Info:
- Address: 593 Edgewood Ave
- Website: www.akasasalon.com
- Phone: 6787612657
- Email: emmanarehair@gmail.com
- Instagram: dilemmaleigh
Image Credit:
Steven Kim, Dan Malsey
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.
