Monday, January 14, 2013

Stylish Stylist Darlene





For this post, I decided to do a Q&A to find out more about Darlene, the stylist and entrepreneur.  I've known her for a while as the witty, always stylish, business-savvy stylist. For this Q&A, I wanted to go beyond the hilarious one-liners (if you know Darlene, you know what I mean) for an informative interview. 

Why are you so passionate about doing hair? 
I feel as though "hair chose me". I would get into all types of "hair mischief" as a kid. I cut my hair and my younger sister's hair when I was 6 and she was 2. I burned my barbie dolls' hair by attempting to curl it. I played with my Playskool "Dolly Surprise" a lot. You could raise the arms to grow & shorten the hair...:-)
What types of hair do you specialize in? 
As a Hair Care Specialist, my motto is "Specializing in all hair types". Although I have certain types of services/methods/techniques I prefer to do, I am able to service clients of all nationalities. I've always had a passion for hair; I only see textures: curly, straight, wavy".
I've heard you talk about the "convertible color", what is that?
It's a fun way to wear hair color, with minimal maintenance. Come and see me for a consult: 904-742-1183
Have you been featured in print, media, or publication? 
Yes. My most recent relevant publishing was in November. I was the Lead Hair Stylist for Tilted Kilt's 2013 "Kilt Girl" Calendar. It is available nationally, in all of their restaurants, over 60 locations. I will be featured in Sophisticates Black Hair Guide soon.
What's been the highlight of your career thus far? 
I would say working on the Tilted Kilt calendar. It was something I enjoyed working with everyone. We rocked it out and had fun!
What kind of training have you had?
I have been trained under various companies/educators, such as: Mizani, Pivot Point, Scruples, Paul Mitchell, SoCap USA, Paris Hilton Dreamcatchers, Great Lengths, SoCap USA, Platinum Seamless, Brazilian Keratin Treatment (Marcia Texiera), Brazilian Blowout & Design Essentials; also training through educators such as Beth Mindardi, Patric Bradley, Martin Parsons & Miki Wright. I was certified as a Gold Key Educator for Kevin Murphy. I was certified as a Gold Key Educator for Kevin Murphy. Although I'm no longer in the position, I enjoy using the products, the people I worked with, and learning so many awesome techniques. I'm not opposed to educating in the future, I just want to focus on branding first.
What can your clients and potential clients expect from you in the future? 
They can expect me to use high quality products and provide them with a high quality service, to the best of my ability. I will also continue to stay on top of my education, and branch out more into styling for Fashion Shows, Photo Shoots, Publications and Special events. 



Do you have a passion for fashion as well? If so, what have you done? 
Yes. I love Fashion. I'd love to get into Fashion Styling, too. I've been told that I have a talent for both Fashion and Make-up. I love them both, however they require a lot of time to build up clientele. (Side note: Here Darlene came up with the concept for the outfit in the video).
Who's your favorite designer? 
Clothing: Tom Ford, Handbags: Tory Burch, Shoes: Christian Louboutin.
When not doing hair, what do you do to relax and unwind?
My interests are very broad, I love traveling, going to events,  going to the beach, playing board games & active games/activities, working out, writing, cooking, and of course shopping! I'm all about enjoying life and the company I keep.
What was the concept for your latest shoot? 
I decided to do a personal shoot. I felt it was time to do something for me! I even had a Fashion Stylist, Johnakeshia Thompson of JakyT. I wanted to look like myself, but with a higher "Wow Factor", but not in an overly sexy way. (And of course show off the "Legs for Days"). My inspiration was a photograph of Brandy, from the Nicole Bitchie blog. I think Brandy has really "grown into her own" so, to speak. She looks amazing now. Here's the link to more of the photos: http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/9PfyL-Qb2L4/Brandy+Greets+Fans+in+NYC
Make-up by? 
Donna Fowler Kemp
Hair? Style? 
I made the Seamless Hair Extensions and came up with the color palette. Laura Lee Wade installs them for me.
Photographer? 
Corey Focus
Where are you located? 
I am inside of Kimberly Clarke Salon, 1981 San Marco Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207. (Right in San Marco Square) The salon environment is friendly, classy, and eclectic. A great place to get your hair done and hang out with the girls and guys.
What are your hours of operation?
I usually work Monday, Wednesday & Friday, by appointment, from 8am to as late as 8pm. I'm also available, by request, for Weddings, Photo Shoots or Special Events, based on availability.
Do you have a website? 



Top: Liz Claiborne
Skirt: Bisou Bisou
Necklace: Provided by Johnakeshia Thompson
Shoes: Qupid
Belt: New York & Co.
Accessories: JCPenney

17 comments:

  1. Thank you so much Nadia for you very well done blog! I appreciate you taking the time to "share the spotlight" with all of the talented artists involved, because without them, I would not have such beautiful images. You're always welcome to any shoot or project that I'm involved with, whether I'm the stylist or the subject.

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    1. You are so welcome! I had a great time at the shoot with you guys; Corey is a riot.

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  2. Hello!
    I've nominated YOU for a Liebster Awards! All the details about your nomination and what to do next are on my blog. Congrats!!! More info here: http://sophistified.blogspot.com/2013/01/liebster-awards.html

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  3. nice interview! and pretty pretty shirt!

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  4. nice post!! I love the skirt of the photos!
    xoxo
    http://straplessandpeeptoesmgj.blogspot.com.es/

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  5. Love your pics!! I am sure you'll be loved by many on world's 1st eyewear styling community —— plus.firmoo.com, could we have the honor to see you there?

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    1. Hi Amy, thanks! :) I did a review for firmoo: http://ubetterwork.blogspot.com/2012/12/firmoo-winter-heat.html.

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  6. I would love to do a photoshoot with her. Her style is unmatched.....

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  7. Hey "Anonymous". I love shoots so if you're a Photographer or in the industry, contact me via the website. www.beautybydarlene.com.

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  8. I have to say this is the most detailed interview I have ever come across on a blogger site, so my hat goes off to you there. And secondly, Darlene is really great at posing!! I could never pose like that, as much as I try, maybe one day.. ahahaha A huge congratulations goes off to the both of you everything is perfect from the photos, to the massive interview! I really know how much effort interviews are..

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    1. Thank you so much! :) Darlene would be very pleased to hear that.

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  9. Thanks so much OBP. It's only my second time "modeling", by the way...and it's The Legs..lol I'm very passionate about what I do and I'm glad Nadia included ALL of the questions. :-)

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  10. I was reading your article and wondered if you had considered creating an ebook on this subject. Your writing would sell it fast. You have a lot of writing talent. best cutting board wood

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