Inspiring Conversations with Shaina Meck of Little Shop of Hairdos / Magical Vacation Planner by Shaina Meck

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shaina Meck.

Hi Shaina, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
I am a California Native, born and raised. I have been thriving in the beauty industry for 10+ years now. I attended Make-Up Designory in Burbank, California, straight out of high school to further my education in beauty and special effects. After working as a Make-Up Artist for over 6 years, I decided to attend the Cosmetology program at West Valley Occupational Center. I am licensed in North Carolina and California, making me a dual licensed hairstylist and make-up artist. I was first attracted to the creativity and flexibility of the industry. Now my passion is guiding others to see the beauty in themselves! Seeing the smile on my client’s faces when their new look is revealed, whether it’s a make-up transformation, color, or a new style, fires my passion even more. With many classes and certifications, I firmly believe continuing education is the key to success. To this day, I continue to further my education with Pulpriot, Redken, Schwarzkopf, and Neuma. I am certified in Babe tape extensions, Donna Bella sew-in extensions, Brazilian Blowout, and Keratin Complex treatments. I am also certified in the Business of Balayage as a balayage specialist. Before moving to Raleigh, my clientele consisted of unicorn hair, balayage, highlights, and long lengths to cute, edgy cuts. I love being well-rounded in each area to offer a broad spectrum for my clients.

I have worked on numerous photo shoots and special events, as well as with many other talented make-up and special effects artists, such as Gage Munster, Marcel Banks, Jo Holland (Face-Off Season 1), Greg Lightner (Face-Off Season 2), Kris Kobzina (Face-Off Season 4), Laney Parkhurst, also known as Laney Chantal (Face-Off Season 5), and Johnny Leftwich (Face-Off Season 10). While make-up will always be my first love, hair has taken over my love for the industry. Constantly craving new information and growth when I began doing hair in 2013, I absorbed everything I could learn about hair. I love not only the business side of the industry, but I also love connecting with my clients. Customer Service is at the top of my values when it comes to my work, priding myself in the art of consultation and attention to detail. Listening to clients and open communication are crucial. I am a true artist. I can customize any look by adding small details like face framing to get to the desired look a client is looking for. I value every client and always ensure that my clients feel comfortable in their own skin and leave feeling rejuvenated, happy, and the best version of themselves that they can possibly be. I have created a safe space for honest feedback for all clients in the salon.

It’s no secret that I love all things spooky and Disney. My vacations usually consist of a nice relaxing weekend in the mountains to enjoy the cool breeze with my husband. Listening to music, watching a movie, scrolling through Pinterest hair and make-up boards, or watching educational videos is what keeps me on my toes when it comes to inspiration. In my past life, I could have been an elementary school teacher with my love for children. I also offer complimentary services to help you and your families book your magical dream vacations to Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Orlando, and so much more!

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not always been a smooth road for me. I struggled to build a clientele before moving to North Carolina with all of the hair salons in one small area of Southern California. Still, once I moved to the East Coast, I was able to build my brand of being a spooky Halloween-themed hair salon. Other struggles include getting shut down during COVID or getting injured and diagnosed with Osteoarthritis. Honestly, the most challenging part of my journey in the beauty industry was trusting the process. It’s easy to look on social media and see other people succeeding when you feel like you aren’t making progress. I must remind myself that no one shows their struggles on social media. Success does not happen overnight; staying consistent with your hard work is key.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Little Shop of Hairdos / Magical Vacation Planner by Shaina Meck?
Little Shop of Hairdos is my full-time job and my first love. It is the name of my hair salon suite that I hope to one day expand into a salon where hair stylists who love all things spooky and Halloween can come work in a judgment-free zone. Little Shop of Hairdos is your one-stop salon for cuts, colors, balayage, vivids, wedding hair, wedding make-up, SFX make-up, and more! When we take on hair and make-up for weddings, if the wedding party has a large count, I love to reach out and collaborate with other artists in the area that complements my style. I started being known as Raleigh’s favorite and best alternative hair salon. My salon suite style is what sets me apart from all of the others. I always go for a spooky, Halloween vibe in my salon. I like my clients to feel beautiful in their skin and hair and not feel like they have to leave their comfort zone. We are conveniently located in the heart of Raleigh, NC, just minutes from North Hills Shopping Center, where you can live, work, shop, dine, and play. Exit 11 on Interstate 540. Call or book online today for a complimentary consultation.

We look forward to creating the beautiful new look you desire and making your hair dreams come true. I also work as an independent contractor through Magical Vacation Planner specializing in Disney and Universal vacations that you and the entire family can enjoy.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I have been taking more risks with starting this business on my own and leaving the teams that I used to work for. It is scary to leap, but the right clients will find you! The beauty and travel industries are not necessarily about luck but hard work, communication, advertising, and word of mouth.

Pricing:

• Fantasy Unicorn Haircolor – $125 per hour
• Partial Foil (Highlights/Lowlights) – $155+
• Full Foil (Highlights/Lowlights) – $190+
• Balayage – $215+
• Bridal Make-Up/Hair – $155/$200

Contact Info:

• Website: www.littleshopofhairdos.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littleshopofhairdosnc/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleShopofHairdosNC/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLbz8R4_kIeh9XcaXP5sDgA
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/little-shop-of-hairdos-nc-raleigh-3
• Other: https://g.co/kgs/TFmRnx

Image Credits
Little Shop of Hairdos NC JR Photography NC / Oak City Boudoir Cynthia Viola