Today we’d like to introduce you to Keire Hunter.
Hi Keire, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
My infatuation with hair started as a little girl. I enjoyed going to the beauty shop with my mom on Saturday mornings, to get our hair done together. As I sat there, I noticed that women would come into the salon looking and feeling one way, but they’d leave with brand new confidence in themselves. The more time I spent in the salon, the more I began to realize that a hairstylist wasn’t just someone who “did” hair. A true stylist could change a woman’s outlook on life.
From that moment, I realized this was what I wanted to do as my career. My love for hair continued to grow as a teen when I was accepted into the Cosmetology Trade Program at Western Tech Vocational High School. After 4 years of training and studying my beloved craft, I graduated with two certificates, my diploma, and my Maryland state board license in 2006!
Now, madly in love with hair, I began working at an Award Winning, Luxury Day Spa and Salon in Timonium, MD. There, I learned so much about the industry and how important it was to continue my education on the newest techniques and latest trends in the ever-developing, fast-paced world of hair and beauty. I immersed myself in my trade, working on countless photo shoots for events, magazines, websites, and fashion shows in Maryland, DC, and even New York, during the highly acclaimed New York Fashion Week!
After having my son Onyx at 34 years old, I realized it was time to become the Entrepreneur that I always thought I could be. I started my own haircare and beauty consultant company and have been on an uptick in every sense. Khair Atelier Inc. is my newest accomplishment and I’m so excited to see what is to come.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey has been a constant learning experience. I didn’t always feel confident in my craft. I only knew how to care for one type of hair texture, but I knew that if I took more classes and assisted other stylists, I could learn how to master all hair textures.
I also learned throughout my career that you shouldn’t say yes to everything. I had a serious burnout that almost took me away from my love of hair forever. However, once I found balance in my career and personal life, I was able to reignite my passion for hair again.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in weft and I-tip extensions. I’m known for my master of coloring skills.
I’m most proud of the relationships and friendships I’ve made over my career. Seeing my clients go through school, weddings, marriages, kids, deaths, etc, and being there every step of the way. I love being able to take their hair through different transitions of their life.
What sets me apart is how much I care about people before I care about their hair. i.e. (KHAIR).
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
The Key is having a humble attitude and always being willing to learn from others.
Don’t wait to be asked to help, just jump in and help. Asking questions or taking an interest in what other hairstylists journeys are can help to inspire you to reach your full potential.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @hairbykeire , @khairatelier
- Email: ikhairatelier@gmail.com
Image Credits
M. Photography
