We had the good fortune of connecting with Stuart Strickland and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stuart, why did you pursue a creative career?
I knew I wanted to pursue an artistic career ever since I was young. I’ve always loved art, and the process of creating something beautiful, start to finish.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I started my career at a top salon in Dallas, training with the best stylists for two years. I credit my success to my mentors and the rigorous training program I went through. This past December, after working there for four years, I showed up to the salon to it being locked up & permanently closed. After four years of building my clientele, I had to find a new salon home and start over essentially. This was a huge challenge to overcome. I went from having everything set in stone to once again building myself up and figuring it all out. But I found a new salon, gained all my clientele back, and am building myself up once again. The lesson I’ve learned from all of this, is that no matter what, don’t give up! It’s cliché to say, but everything happens for a reason. Hard work pays off and you can make anything happen as long as you put your mind to it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For my perfect day in Dallas, we would start off by walking to my favorite coffee shop Murray Street Coffee, order a lavender vanilla latte and sit outside while we finish up our drink. Then for breakfast we would head to Dream Cafe in Lakewood! They have amazing smoothies, pancakes and breakfast tacos. After that we would go to the Dallas Museum of Art, and check out one of the many rotating exhibits! It’s right next to Kyle warren park where they have a bunch of food trucks for lunch. After that we would head to white rock to relax by the lake and take a stroll to burn off all the extra calories. We would finish the day with Blue Fish sushi being delivered via DoorDash, because honestly, after a day like that we’re going to be tired!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would not be where I am in my career without my amazing mentor and friend, Shauna! I worked alongside her for almost 2 years before taking my own clients, and she taught me everything I know about color. Not only was she a great teacher, she treated me like a friend which grew into an amazing bond, I call her my salon mom!

 

Website: StuTheStylist.com

Instagram: StuTheStylist

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.