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When did you know that Keisha was "DaMasterStylist"?
I have known I was destined to be a hair stylist since I was 11 years old. It’s the only thing that I have ever done. I actually started out by finger waving my teddy bear’s fur after I had won it at the fair. But I knew that I had become what one would call a “Master Stylist” when people began to seek me out for education, mentorship and speaking engagements. I am truly humbled and still count it an honor to be looked at in this way.
Is hairdressing a God-given gift, or can anyone develop the skills through education and training?
As in any other art field, a God-given passion must be the foundation. However, true mastery of the art and technique of hair must be developed through education and training.
As a salon owner, what do you look for when hiring hair stylists?
When hiring a stylist, I look for someone who has initiative and is self-motivated. I can train in technique but motivation and passion must be present. I also look for stylists that have a great personality and want to grow with an already established team.
Describe The Paisley Parlor experience.
The Paisley Parlor is an upbeat trendy salon where clients can receive cutting edge color, cuts and hair extensions. We are always full of laughter and fun. You really never know what a trip to the Paisley Parlor will bring because no two days are ever the same.
 
What are some of the perks to being a platform artist?
Platform artistry affords me the opportunity to do what I love most and that is to educate stylists. I also really love meeting new people, mentoring up and coming stylists, travelling the world and collaborating on projects with other talented people in the beauty industry.
Successful hairdressers today have multiple streams of income. (shows, classes, DVDs, products and hair lines etc) Do you think it's possible today for stylists to have huge financial success solely from behind the chair?
I believe in order to achieve true financial success your art form must extend beyond the chair. That may include many forms such as those you mentioned. There are only so many working hours in a day and at some point you maximize your earning potential behind the chair. You have to pursue other financial streams.
How do you feel about all the hair how to's on Youtube?
Youtube definitely has its pros and cons. I have had tremendous success on Youtube providing quick tips on styling and cutting. However there are those that follow the advice of unlicensed and under-educated Youtube beauty “pros” and find themselves with botched styles and damaged hair. My advice is to ALWAYS seek out the advice of a licensed professional. We wouldn’t perform surgery on ourselves from a YouTube “self proclaimed doctor” and I believe we must take the care of our hair equally as serious.
Advice to other stylists/owners on how to promote their business.
You must take your success serious and into your own hands. No one should be talking about your business more than you. Use social media to its fullest capacity but also capitalize on in-person moments. And anytime there is an industry event or an opportunity to expand your influence, jump on it!
Are there any new stylists in the industry, that you've noticed their work and felt proud/inspired? If so who?
Sharonda Kingdom (@miss_sassykatt); Jaylon Aaron (@_thehairgawdstylist);
Years from now when people mention DaMasterStylist, what do you want to be remembered for?
I want to be remembered for my daring and dramatic approach to hair. I also want to leave a legacy of hair educational products and facilities.
What's next for DaMasterStylist?
You will find Damasterstylist in a city near you on my upcoming educational tour. I will also be expanding my Rabbi Premium hair product line. Lastly, I am looking to enlarge the reach of The Paisley Parlor by adding a new location in the near future.
 
Photos and information courtesy of Damasterstylist
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