Meet Luis Moreno | Hairstylist

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

Hi Luis, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The thought process behind opening my own business was rooted in my desire to work for myself and create an experience that truly resonates with my vision of service. I have always wanted to independently manage my own products, appointments, and client experiences, striving to elevate them to the intimate and luxurious level I’ve always envisioned.

One of the key motivations for me was the freedom to manage my own time and schedule. This autonomy allows me to prioritize what truly matters—my clients. I take immense pride in ensuring that each client feels seen and heard, especially when it comes to their unique hair needs and the accommodations related to the product lines I use.

Ultimately, my goal is to cultivate a space where clients can enjoy a personalized experience that reflects their individuality and preferences. Opening my own business is not just about entrepreneurship; it’s about creating a sanctuary for clients where they can feel valued and receive top-tier service.

What should our readers know about your business?
What sets me apart as a stylist is my multicultural background and my commitment to inclusivity in the hair experience. I strive to create a welcoming space where everyone feels heard, seen, and valued, regardless of their hair type or style. My expertise spans all hair types, lengths, and textures, from short and funky straight styles to long, luxurious curls and everything in between. I have a particular passion for dark hair, which resonates deeply with my Colombian heritage. Growing up in a culture where dark hair is predominant and comes in various textures—from straight to kinky curly—has given me a unique appreciation for the beauty and diversity of hair.

I believe that to truly call oneself a hairstylist, one must be able to cut, color, and style any hair texture and color to perfection. This commitment to diversity and excellence in my work is extremely important to me. I was honored to be recognized as one of the top 50 most diverse hairstylists in 2020 by Keya Neal and her team at Texture Vs Race. This recognition not only filled me with pride but also reinforced the significance of inclusivity in my practice.

The journey to where I am today hasn’t always been easy. I faced challenges along the way, from honing my skills in a competitive industry to establishing my own brand that truly reflects my values. However, I overcame these obstacles by staying committed to my vision and continuously educating myself. I learned that resilience, adaptability, and a genuine passion for my craft are vital in navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

Through this journey, I’ve learned the importance of fostering genuine connections with my clients and creating a space where they can express themselves without fear of judgment. I want the world to know that my brand is built on the foundation of inclusivity, diversity, and excellence. I am dedicated to continuously improving my skills and providing a hair experience that celebrates the uniqueness of each individual who sits in my chair.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
**Day 1: Exploring the Beltline**
– **Morning:** Kick off the week by taking a stroll along the Atlanta Beltline, which beautifully connects various neighborhoods. We can walk, bike, or even just grab a coffee from one of the local cafes along the way.
– **Lunch:** Stop for a bite at **Del Bar**, my go-to spot for delicious fare. Whether it’s their brunch or lunch menu, you won’t be disappointed.
– **Afternoon:** We’ll continue our adventure on the Beltline, checking out local art installations and street art as we explore.
– **Dinner:** Head to **Dijla Lounge** for a fantastic mix of Mediterranean flavors. The vibe is great, and the food is even better!

**Day 2: Nature and Culture**
– **Morning:** We’ll visit the **Atlanta Botanical Garden** in Midtown. It’s a perfect way to immerse ourselves in beautiful exhibits of flowers and wildlife right in the heart of the city.
– **Lunch:** After our stroll through the gardens, we can grab lunch at a nearby café or food truck.
– **Afternoon:** Spend the afternoon at the **High Museum of Art**, where we can appreciate a diverse collection of art from around the world.
– **Dinner:** Head over to **Kingston Caribbean Restaurant** for some incredible Caribbean cuisine. The flavors will transport you straight to the islands!

**Day 3: Local Flavor and Nightlife**
– **Morning:** Let’s start with brunch at another local favorite, perhaps with a Southern twist.
– **Afternoon:** Explore the vibrant **Ponce City Market**, filled with shops, eateries, and a rooftop park with stunning views of the city.
– **Dinner:** Enjoy dinner at a trendy spot in the area, soaking in the local atmosphere.
– **Night:** Wind down the day at **Felix Atlanta**, my favorite gay dive bar. It’s the perfect place for drinks and chill vibes, and the bartenders are amazing!

**Day 4: Adventure and Relaxation**
– **Morning:** Take a day trip to **Stone Mountain Park** for some outdoor adventure. We can hike up the mountain for breathtaking views.
– **Lunch:** Pack a picnic to enjoy at the park or grab something nearby.
– **Afternoon:** After our hike, we can relax at a local café or return to the Beltline for some light shopping.
– **Dinner:** Try out a new restaurant that’s been on our list!

**Day 5: Community and Fun**
– **Morning:** Visit the historic **Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park** for a dose of culture and history.
– **Lunch:** Head to **Krog Street Market** for a variety of food options from local vendors.
– **Afternoon:** Check out some local shops or art galleries in the neighborhood.
– **Dinner:** Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby eatery with a fun atmosphere.

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 take a moment to give a heartfelt shoutout to my first-ever mentor, Henry Canas. Henry recognized the talent within me that I hadn’t yet discovered, and he played a pivotal role in helping me hone my skills in cutting and styling. His belief in me made a world of difference, and I’ll always be grateful for the countless hours he dedicated to my growth. Every Monday for months, he invited me to his home, generously sharing his knowledge and expertise. His commitment to my development was truly inspiring.

Additionally, I want to acknowledge other mentors who have shaped my journey, particularly Pam Goodale. Pam never gave up on me and consistently pushed me to become a better hairdresser, colorist, and stylist. Her encouragement and guidance have been invaluable in my professional growth.

Both Henry and Pam have not only been mentors but have also become cherished friends. Their support and respect for their craft continue to inspire me every day. I am forever grateful for their encouragement and the significant impact they have had on my career.

And finally, I would like to shout out my amazing fiancé. Without him, I would not have made the leap to go independent and open my own business. He is a constant source of support in my life, pushing me beyond my limits in ways I never thought possible-not just in my career, but also in our relationship. His unwavering belief in my potential has shown me the true meaning of support in achieving success.

Website: https://hdbyluis.glossgenius.com/

Instagram: @HairDesignsByLuis

Image Credits
All hair was done by me