Women Who Work: Guyla J (@guylaj_styles)

At Hugs for Black Women, we are committed to encouraging and empowering our female community and look forward to connecting with women on a mission to do the same. This week, we sat down with serial entrepreneur and Hollywood hairstylist, Guyla J, to continue our conversation with women who work. The businesswoman and beauty maven blessed us with essential haircare advice and encouraging life advice. Read more about her journey below.

HBW:     How did you get your start in the haircare industry?

Guyla J: I have always loved hair since I was a child. However, it wasn’t until I was 28 that I decided to attend cosmetology school. After becoming licensed, I opened a salon suite, and the rest is history.

HBW:     You’ve recently begun to break into the filmmaking industry as a stylist on set. Can you tell us more about that experience?

Guyla J: Overall, it has been a good experience. I am constantly learning. Salon vs. Set is two different worlds. So, it was up to me to take educational classes, seek mentorship, actively place myself in these unfamiliar settings, and network to get ahead. It took lots of discipline to stay focused on the goal. What I’m learning is, yes, know your craft for sure, but being adaptive is what’s going to help hold you down & around in the industry.

HBW:     What do you love most about being a stylist?

Guyla J: I love being a part of the transformation. Whether it’s day-to-day hairstyling or production, I enjoy making the everyday woman smile and the confidence that comes with it. When I am working in production, it’s a different WOW factor. I am “helping” create a character. Once the hair looks have been established, actors go through makeup & costumes; the final look can be pretty awesome, and that’s when I really feel good. It’s like a collective work of art!

HBW:     What’s the most critical piece of hair care advice you can offer?

Guyla J: When it comes to hair, know YOUR hair! There are so many “cute hairstyles” & “great products,” right? Well, that doesn’t necessarily mean they are for your hair type. For example, faux locs & extensions are nice, but what if you have fragile hair or a very sensitive scalp? Those hair options may not be best for you. Too much tension is sure for hair loss. When it comes to hair products, it’s trial and error for the average person. Pay attention to how the hair reacts to weather and use products that help nourish.

HBW:     Life advice?

Guyla J: Keep learning, don’t be afraid of the unknown. When you learn, you evolve. Having an open mind to receive information will open many doors. Even when you aren’t 100% sure, still go for it. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes either; fear will hinder you and causes overthinking.

HBW:     What words of encouragement and support do you have for black women?

Guyla J: Go for it! The time is NOW. Even if you are the only one in the room, make the most of it and network. You are there for a reason; share your expertise and experiences. With every new level comes more responsibility and opportunity. The goal is to get to the next level and eventually pass on knowledge to help others who aspire to do what you do.

HBW:     What goals and projects are you working on for 2022?

Guyla J: This year, I am open to anything! I didn’t have specific goals this year because I have been focused on becoming a union hairstylist for TV/Film for the last four years. I’m in the process now, so that’s a huge accomplishment. Anything else that comes along will be icing on the cake!

HBW:     Knowing you personally, I’ve witnessed you overcome any obstacle you’ve encountered. How can we embody that spirit in our daily lives? How do you persevere when you want to give up?

Guyla J: If there is a will, there is a way! I strategize a lot, and I rarely go in blindly. I’m real with myself about the possible obstacles/mishaps and failures that could happen. So I plan for and around it. Sometimes you have to make things happen for you, whether creating your own lane or taking extra steps to prepare you for where you are headed. I rarely want to give up because I depend on myself. I know the type of life I want and the type of person I want to evolve into, and the thought of me getting there motivates me even more!