Meet Taylor Stroud | Hairstylist

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

Hi Taylor, how do you think about risk?
I view taking risks as a huge opportunity for growth. My career, in many ways, is based on taking risks. I started as a student in the traditional university system, and while it was certainly a safer route, I knew it wasn’t what I wanted. I took the risk and chose to dive headfirst into hairstyling, backing out of my degree to attend the cosmetology program at Paul Mitchell. Similarly, after having worked at my previous salon for 2 years, I felt that I was playing it too safe and existing solely in my comfort zone. I, again, took the risk and accepted a position at Forté, where I work now. To me, although the unknown is definitely scary, taking risks and stepping out of the safety of my comfort zone is always an opportunity to grow, both in my career and my personal life. From trying out a new haircut, to formulating a color, a lot of my career is just a big risk! What may work for one person, might not work for the next person who sits in my chair. I think people often tend to lean on the side of caution when taking risks, as it comes with that uncertainty and the unknown, but the benefits outweigh the negatives in gaining new insight and experience.

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.
I’d love to share more about my art and what sets me apart from others! As a hairstylist, it’s important to be well-versed in numerous different techniques and styles to cater to anyone who sits in my chair. I specialize in vivid colors, low-maintenance cuts and colors, and specifically cutting bangs! Getting to where I am today has not been the easiest pathway, as it takes continual learning and developing your confidence. A new trend or style could pop up in an instant, and it’s so important to stay on top of it to be an up-to-date and well-rounded stylist. I’ve definitely learned some major lessons that not only apply to my career, but to my personal life as well. The biggest one I’ve learned is to always keep an open mind and always say yes. You never know what opportunities may fall into your lap and it may be something you end up falling in love with. I would love for the world to know that my chair will always be a safe space, no matter who you are.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are so many great places to explore in Atlanta, but in just one day, you can only scratch the surface. As someone who adores dogs and the outdoors, I’d kickstart my day with a hike at Arabia Mountain, accompanied by my dog, Pluto. I would then move on to The Little Tart Bakeshop on Krog Street to grab a coffee and the best croissants Atlanta has to offer. From there, I’d make my way over to Chamblee Row Antiques and browse my way through all the incredible oddities and antiques the shops have to offer. To finish off the rest of my day, I’ll head over to Fernbank After Dark for their special themed nights on the second Friday of every month. These events are exclusively 21 and up and feature themes such as Sci-Fi, to “Boos and Booze” in October and gives you an opportunity to explore the full museum after-hours.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There have been more people who have supported me than I could possibly name in one sitting, but I’d especially like to recognize my parents, who have supported me through all the ups and downs of my budding career, my partner, my boss and mentor, Emma, and my fellow hairstylists who I have worked alongside throughout the years, who continue to inspire me to learn and grow in my career.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dyewithdignity/

Image Credits
Hans Kenemer