We had the good fortune of connecting with Holly Wilkey and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Holly, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Balance is the thing I struggle with the most. I love what a do, and I put a lot of myself into my work has a hairstylist! I set little goals for myself I work hard and have an end goal and then take time for myself.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Ive been a cutting hair since 2004. And I’ve loved it ever since. Hair color scared the crap out of me, I fried this girls bangs off with bleach and was traumatized but I loved cutting hair. I heard in Atlanta there was a salon that specialized in cut or color. Ive been with Van Michael salon for almost 18 years. I love the freedom they have given me to not get bored with my career. I educated for a while, I traveled, and hosted recruiting events. Ive gained a lot of experience behind the chair and given a lot of educational opportunities.
Being a hairstylist is rewarding but its very physical, and i struggle to take time to myself sometimes. I like to hustle and I like to work hard.

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.
Probably zoo atlanta, gibbs gardens, lost mountain alpaca ranch, Kennesaw mountain for activities.
Jinyan ramen, eight sushi lounge, sotto sotto.
I try to have a list of places and see what side of town you wind up on. Also if the weather is nice an ATL patio never disappoints.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Ive had the privilege of working along side many amazing mentors. Natalie and Oneil Gurley, took me under their wing as young stylist. My husband Elliott who understands career and how much I enjoy my career!

Instagram: Phollymonster

Image Credits
@3rdghostphotography

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