Life & Work with Jacqueline Bell of Atlanta

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacqueline Bell.

Hi Jacqueline, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Born and raised in New York, my love for hair began early. I was the kid who styled every doll in sight — and eventually my family, friends, and even myself. The beauty and fashion world always felt like home to me.
Life took me on a different path first. I became a wife and mother, and my focus shifted to family. Still, the passion never left. I continued doing hair on the side while working as an administrative assistant, staying connected to the ever changing trends I loved.
In 1998, my husband — a career Air Force serviceman — and I mapped out a plan for his retirement and my future. With his support, I enrolled in cosmetology school in 1999 and completed the program in just nine months at 33 years old. During that time, I left my 9–5 job to work full time as a salon coordinator while attending classes in the evenings. Before I even graduated, I was promoted to stylist in a popular, high energy salon surrounded by talented professionals who generously shared their craft.
It didn’t take long before I felt ready to take the next step. I opened my first salon, Diversity, on the main strip near the University of Florida — and it quickly became a hit.
In 2002, after my husband retired, we moved to Atlanta. We had attended hair shows there for years, and I knew it was the right place to chase my dream of working with celebrities. As a New York City girl, I naturally gravitated toward the energy of the city.
The transition wasn’t instant. For a year, I traveled back to Florida once a month to service my loyal clients while building a new clientele in Atlanta. Once established, I opened Diversity Atlanta on Spring Street. Over the years, I expanded to several locations before ultimately settling in the Old Fourth Ward — a neighborhood I fell in love with through my philanthropic work and where we lived for more than a decade.
By 2020, my career in TV and film had grown so much that I decided to close the salon and pursue on set work full time. I’m a proud member of IATSE Local 798. Although the industry in Georgia has slowed recently, my passion for my craft hasn’t. I missed sharing my artistry with clients, so in October 2025, I opened Sugar, a boutique salon in East Cobb with a warm, bohemian vibe.
My journey has been anything but traditional — and that’s exactly what makes it mine.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Owning your own business while managing creative employees is one of the hardest combinations out there — and the feast or famine cycle only amplifies everything. What you’re describing isn’t a personal failing; it’s the natural tension of running a creative driven business where inspiration, cash flow, and human emotion all collide.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a beauty professional with a comprehensive background across all facets of the industry. As a master cosmetologist, I specialize in healthy hair, precision cutting, expert color, natural hair, and all textures. My versatility is one of my strongest assets.
I am a proud member of IATSE Local 798 for hair and makeup, where I work in television and film as a Key Hairstylist—the driving creative force who collaborates closely with the Department Head to shape the visual identity of each project. My experience also extends to theatre, where I have worked as a wig dresser, as well as the commercial world, music videos, and personal styling for celebrities.
What sets me apart is my ability to move seamlessly between mediums while maintaining the same level of artistry, professionalism, and care. I am known for delivering exceptional color and cuts, respecting clients’ time, staying current with industry trends, and—most importantly—working confidently with every texture of hair.

Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Life isn’t a dress rehearsal — this is the real show, and your moment is happening right now. The world is waiting for the strength only you can bring, the ideas only you can create, and the courage only you can unleash. Don’t hold back, don’t dim your own light, and don’t wait for the “perfect” moment to begin. Step onto your stage with purpose, own your story with pride, and give every single day everything you’ve got. You were made for impact, built for resilience, and wired for greatness. So rise up, lean in, and take your shot like you know you’re meant to win.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jacquelinesugarbell.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sugar_hair
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sugar.hair.9