We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicole Addams and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Nicole, how do you think about risk?
As a hairstylist, I believe that pursuing a passion often involves taking calculated risks. Whether it’s accepting the possibility of making less money or working longer hours, these sacrifices are sometimes necessary to achieve a larger goal. The process of pushing through challenges, whether financial or personal, is part of the journey toward success. When those risks are taken, and they lead to a positive outcome, the sense of accomplishment is unparalleled. Without putting something on the line, it’s difficult to truly appreciate the rewards. That’s why the phrase ‘no risk, no reward’ resonates so deeply in both life and career.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am proud to say that I am entirely self-made. I put myself through school and made the move from a small town in Northern California’s Bay Area to Los Angeles, paying my own way every step of the journey. During that time, I worked multiple jobs, sometimes for months without a single day off, truly hustling to immerse myself in learning and growing within my career. It’s easy to look at someone’s success and assume they had it handed to them, but my path has been anything but easy. From a young age, I was taught that hard work is the only way to achieve anything in life, and that lesson stayed with me. You also have to be ready to fall and pick yourself back up over and over.
I’ve faced many years living paycheck to paycheck, with the stress of working several jobs at once, but seeing my hard work pay off has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Much like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon, I had to struggle to spread my wings and truly grow in my career. Now, I find that my work not only allows me to be artistic, but also gives me the joy of connecting with clients on a personal level.
I want the world to know that setbacks can often be setups for something greater. No matter how impossible it feels to reach your goals, persistence is key. Sometimes, things don’t work out as planned, and you have to adapt and pivot. But if you keep pushing forward, the rewards are always worth the struggle.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I were hosting someone visiting the city, I’d first take them to my studio to show off how charming it is—maybe even do their hair if they’re up for it! I also love taking friends to quaint coffee shops, where we can relax and enjoy the local vibe. The beach is always a must, with seafood spots right by the water, offering a perfect combination of good food and beautiful scenery. Of course, a trip to see the Hollywood sign is a classic—there’s something fun about seeing it, especially for those who don’t get to experience it every day. I also enjoy visiting rooftop spots with a view, where you can take in the cityscape. With the incredible year-round weather, there’s always something fun to do outdoors, no matter the season.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate this interview to my father, who recently passed away. He was a key influence in teaching me about work ethic from a very young age, and he always encouraged me to pursue my goals wholeheartedly. Thanks to him, I truly understand the value of hard work and how it can pay off. I know he will continue to be proud of the person I’ve become, and I will continue to honor his legacy by always striving to work hard, and have a good heart and intentions, just as he taught me.
Website: https://nicole-addams.square.site
Instagram: NicoleAddamsHair
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NicoleAddamsHair?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Yelp: https://yelp.to/zxnFCp8f8T
Other: Tik tok:
@nicoleaddamshair