Iles Formula Hair Talk with Meredith J.Snyder from HairbyMJ
This week Iles Formula Hair Talk welcomes Meredith J. Snyder, "MJ" who is both a professional spray tan artist and hairstylist specialized in extensions and color, based in Columbus, Ohio. After working in PR in New York City, she started a side business operating a mobile spray tan booth around the city. It was while working during the New York Fashion week that MJ came to realize she wanted to be more involved in the beauty industry and follow her true passion which was always hair.
Check out her work and follow MJ on her social channels:
@hairbymj
@spraybymj
@m.j.snyder
IF: Tell us what you think is the biggest challenge in hairdressing today?
We’ve already defeated the biggest problem— your competition is not your enemy. Stepping into this industry after working in fashion was a huge change. Hairstylists’ have their own culture and are a wealth of knowledge. It’s refreshing to see creatives that are willing to share their tips, tricks, techniques, and the entire breakdown of a look they created. Truly, I’ve never been around so many creatives that use other artists as a source of inspiration.
IF: What’s the most enjoyable part of your job?
Giving people that— ‘WOW’ moment. As hairstylists, we have the ability to change people’s appearance and perspective of themselves. Often, I think we forget that we don’t just fix people’s hair: we transform them into the best version of themselves.
IF: Why did you choose the path of hairdressing and was it easy to fall into this line of work?
Sometimes, it amazes me that I’m doing hair now. Going into my senior year of college, I started working for women’s fashion designer Brandon Maxwell’s PR and Operations team in NYC. My experience there was great, and I loved living in the city. Starting out in New York was a struggle and I had to find a second job. That summer ,I started my mobile spray tan business and would travel between clients in the city. After working at NYFW, I realized my true passion was in the beauty industry.
Hence, after fashion week, I packed my bags and went back to school to finish up my Bachelor's degree at Ohio State. When I got back to campus, I started applying to hair schools to attend after my graduation.
IF: If you had not made the decision to be a hairdresser what would you have been?
This is the path I chose, and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else!
IF: What is your greatest strength?
My ability to connect with people! I truly believe that the connections you make will ultimately define your success in any industry.
IF: Your favorite hairdressing tools?
My favorite tool would be my Dyson hair dryer— I can’t live without it.
IF: Tell us about your relationship with Iles Formula. How did you discover us and which formula is your favorite?
I have naturally curly hair and good sulfate free shampoos that don't dry out hair are hard to come by. The Shampoo,Conditioner and Curl Revive are staples in my hair care routine now.
IF: What was the most challenging job you ever had?
I am just starting out as a hairstylist and everyday there is always a new challenge to overcome!
IF: What was your worst hair moment and why…privately or on set/stage or in the salon?
Having curly hair growing up was a challenge ! When I was in 3rd grade I donated 11 inches of my hair to ‘Locks of Love’ to make wigs for cancer patients— I completely looked like a poodle afterwards. At least it was all for a good cause!
IF: If you could style anyone’s hair, who would it be and why?
Hailey Bieber— I’ve always admired her for how well she carries herself at such a young age. She’s truly an icon of my generation and it would be a dream to do her hair someday.
IF: Where do you pull hair inspiration from?
I’m a 90’s baby and I pull most of my inspiration from old supermodels, campaigns, tv shows and movies from that era!
IF: Your advice to young hairdressers starting out?
You have a voice. Even if you are young, don’t let people put limits on your ability because you’re new. Bet on yourself.
What do you want to do ?
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