Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1316647
26 indie stylist Volume 1 Issue 3 that amount of day-to-day. So that's why I'm now multimedia creative director, which started in August [2020]. I moved back into more of the artistic area with less of the managing, although I'm still directing. Now, I can focus more on the shoots and media—and really bring that to life from the stylist's point of view. IF A STYLIST ASPIRES TO BECOME A DIRECTOR, WHAT ARE THE STEPS? Every single step I took prepared me for this job and helped me understand all areas [of the business]. As a hairstylist, I understand the time required to do a style, what it takes, and what's possible. Having freelanced, I know makeup artists and wardrobe stylists. I think all the things I've done in my career helped lead me to being a director, but anybody can direct something. So, just direct a small shoot, practice, and continue learning. HAS YOUR PROFESSIONAL LIFE CHANGED SINCE COVID-19? What's so funny is that a couple of years ago, I actually moved really close to LAX because I was traveling so much. I thought, "This is gonna be brilliant! I'm living right next to the airport. It's so easy!" And then . . . I stopped traveling. Prior to that, I was traveling at least two or three times a month to hair shows and trainings, whatever was going on. Now, I'm not traveling at all. I've been nowhere! Right as COVID was hitting, I was in London shooting a collection for Paul Mitchell. It was when the border closed, so I had to leave mid-shoot to get back to the States. We actually just started shooting again a couple of months ago. The day-to-day job looks slightly more complicated because of restrictions and testing and everything else we have to do, but when you get into the job, it's the same. Everybody is coming out and they're happy. Crystals and Gems Hair: Lucie Doughty Makeup: Casey Gore Wardrobe: Katya Suss Photographer: Darren Tieste