Brandi McDonald always knew she wanted to be a hairstylist. After 25 years in the industry, she’s now a hand-tied hair extensions specialist with her business, Stych + Hue, owner and proprietor of Salon Gallerie, and a wife and mama to three littles. She juggles much to pursue her dreams, but wouldn’t have it any other way. Helping her clients is a large part of what makes it worth it.
“I just love making people feel better about themselves. Especially in my work with extensions, the insecurities of thin hair really affect people,” said McDonald. “People cry happy tears. The before and after pictures are wild! Sharing that with somebody is cool.”
After Cosmetology school, McDonald assisted Amy Heavican at Salon Tino, an expert of hair coloring and cutting short hair. McDonald claims this is where she truly learned to do hair — Heavican teaching her to formulate color with her eyes closed and owner Tom Constantino schooling her on work ethic.
After four years at Salon Tino, McDonald struck out on her own, incorporating many lessons learned into her company Stych + Hue, offering hair extensions and custom color with downline dreams of creating her own extension line.
Whether to supplement thinning hair, add length, or rehabilitate damaged hair, hair extensions have become a favorable solution for many. An ever-evolving niche in the industry, even with her expertise, McDonald prioritizes education, her most recent mentorship being with hair legend Chrissy Rasmussen, owner of Habit Hair, an extension expert and trainer with 1.3 million followers on Instagram!
“If extensions are applied correctly, it’s very hard to damage your hair,” explained McDonald. “As well, I incorporate a lot of education with every client in my chair. My goal is to improve their hair so maybe, someday, they don’t need extensions, they just want them.”
McDonald utilizes techniques to prolong time between visits, providing clients with low maintenance, lived-in looks that grow out well while still looking luxurious — and save them money as touch-ups are only needed every 10 to 12 weeks!
“With years of doing extensions, you figure out how to make them more comfortable. How to place them to be undetectable, grow out well, and last longer. I’m always like ‘less is more.' I use brands that allow clients to go much longer. It’s easier for them and myself.”
I just love making people feel better about themselves. Sharing that with somebody is cool.