Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1540979
74 AHP Indie Stylist Volume 6 Issue 2 LIZ MERRILL Master Stylist | New Hampshire First year with Ulta Beauty My path: I've been licensed and working for decades. e last three years of my career were starting to weigh on me, so I made the decision it was time to go in a new direction. I knew it would be a great new beginning at Ulta Beauty. I arrived with a full clientele and hit the ground running. My why: Working at Ulta Beauty is as exciting as going to an industry show! I love the atmosphere and all the new products. You can't help but enjoy a new experience every day. Belonging: Ulta Beauty welcomes everyone. It doesn't matter your nationality, how tall you are, your hair type—as long as you have something to bring to the table. And you bring it with joy. AMANDA DIAZ Elite Stylist | Design Team | Illinois 12 years with Ulta Beauty My why: I was looking for a place that supported both my career goals and my life as a new parent. Aer having my baby, work–life balance became very important to me, and Ulta Beauty offered that while still giving me the chance to grow as a stylist. With the constant flow of customers, Ulta Beauty is the perfect place to build a strong clientele, and I really value the great benefits and support. Education: I appreciate the commitment to continuing education—especially the trend classes that keep us fresh, creative, and inspired. I also love the support we get from our management team in growing our business skills, which has helped me continue to advance in my career. Being part of the Ulta Beauty Design Team has been such a rewarding experience because I get to inspire other stylists within the company while helping attract new talent to join us. Belonging: As a stylist who is a parent, Mexican, and nonbinary, I feel supported and valued for exactly who I am. at openness and celebration of diversity is something I also get to share with every guest who sits in my chair. Ulta Beauty makes sure everyone—both team members and guests—feels seen, respected, and welcomed. CHRISTOPHER MARTIN Master Stylist | Tennessee 7 years with Ulta Beauty 2 years licensed My path: I began my career at Ulta Beauty as a Beauty Advisor. A few years into my career I met my mentor, Salon Manager Margie Chandler. She encouraged me to go to cosmetology school and follow my dreams of becoming a licensed makeup artist. I stepped into the stylist role and quickly rose to the top. My why: I was attracted to Ulta Beauty because of the culture I experienced as a shopper. Associates were always so helpful and happy to see me. It made me feel safe to explore makeup as a boy new to the beauty world. Education: I have learned so much through Ulta Academy, as well as working with guests of different ages, preferences, skin types, and beauty styles. Belonging: I want everyone to feel how I felt when I first started coming to Ulta Beauty. I strive to give every guest the sense of belonging I first felt many years ago. advertisement "I have learned so much through Ulta Academy, as well as working with guests of different ages, preferences, skin types, and beauty styles." —Christopher Martin, Master Stylist