What Does It Mean To Be A Traveling Hairstylist?

In a previous blog post, I touched on my core career goals when I was 17, but here’s a quick recap. My top three goals back then were:

1. To have a career that allowed me to be present as a mom.
2. To achieve financial independence and fully support myself.
3. To have a career that offered opportunities for travel.

At the time, I wasn’t exactly sure how these three goals would come together, but at 19, I found myself enrolling in beauty school—and I’ve never looked back. Moving to Los Angeles in 2012 was a pivotal decision because LA was the heart of the West Coast beauty scene. I wanted clients who’d take me where their jobs took them, and that meant traveling across the globe! I’ve now lost track of the states and countries I’ve visited with clients (something I should definitely sit down and calculate), but I’m immensely grateful that I stayed true to those top three goals. Each experience has shaped who I am today.

So, back to the original question: “What does it mean to be a traveling hairstylist?” It means that I’m hired at a day rate plus travel expenses to handle all my client’s haircare needs, wherever they are. Sometimes that’s for color, extensions, or a haircut; other times, it’s to join them on a tour, a film set, a TV show, a big event, or even just a personal appearance. The job demands flexibility and a “yes” mindset. When opportunity knocks, I answer.

I could talk endlessly about this unique side of the beauty industry, but here are a few key tips if you’re interested in pursuing this path:

1. Live in a major city. It doesn’t have to be LA, but the city is where you’ll find your foundation and start.
2. Assist a top stylist in your chosen city. Create a memorable presentation to show them why you’re the best person to work with.
3. Network with PR agencies. Offer to do their hair in exchange for opportunities or referrals—get yourself connected.
4. Say yes and work hard. It sounds simple, but the dedication to always show up and put in the effort is rare.

Good luck, and with perseverance and faith, your dreams can come true.

Xx,
Jill