Greenwood Welcomes Rainy Skies and a Blossoming Hairstylist
Greenwood — Weather reports indicate that we’re in for a bit of everything today. Showers are expected early on, transitioning to cloudy skies in the afternoon. With temperatures peaking at a high of 81°F and a 70% chance of rain, it looks like a perfect day for some indoor activities. Winds will be coming from the ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Tonight, the forecast predicts continued cloudiness and a low of 68°F. Keep those umbrellas handy, folks, and stay cozy inside if you can!
Meet Karina Lee: Greenwood’s Creative Hair Artist
When you’re in need of a haircut or a new hairstyle, it’s always a treat to find someone who not only knows their craft but also loves what they do. Karina Lee, a hairstylist at a popular salon in Greenwood, is one such artist. She has been working at this location since graduating from Emerald High School and completing her cosmetology classes at the G. Frank Russell Technology Center just over three years ago.
Karina’s passion for hairdressing is rooted deeply in her childhood experiences. Her enthusiasm was sparked by her grandmother, who would take her along to the beauty salon. “I’ve basically always been around that kind of environment,” Lee shared. “Her hairdresser was my hairdresser growing up, when I was little, and it was my therapy.”
Artistry in Hair
Karina loves the artistic side of her job, which is evident in the way she talks about cutting, dying, and shaping hair. “I love people and I love doing artwork with hairstyles or hair color,” she said while trimming a client’s hair. Away from the salon, Karina indulges in drawing and playing the guitar, activities that she believes contribute to her dexterity and creativity in hairdressing. “I’ve always drawn and written a lot,” she said. “I usually feel very confident when I’m doing hair because I’ve always worked with my hands.”
A Conversationalist in the Chair
For Karina, hairstyling isn’t just about the technical aspects; it’s also about building a connection with her clients. Being social is essential to her role, and she prides herself on creating a welcoming and friendly environment. “It’s the people and the atmosphere we have here,” she explained. “We’re very welcoming, friendly, and laid back. It’s not so much of a routine. It’s kind of different every day. It’s really fun. It’s not really work to me.”
Whether clients come to chat or prefer a quieter experience, Karina tailors her approach to meet their needs. She shared that many of her clients open up to her about their lives, making each day a new and interesting experience. “It’s kind of a place where everybody can wind down and be able to talk about their problems or their life or whatever’s going on,” she said. “I know whether they want to talk. Sometimes they’re just relaxed. I ask small questions or just kind of relax with them as I’m styling or coloring their hair.”
Advice for Aspiring Stylists
For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Karina advises getting the right experience and meeting all necessary requirements, including board certification, which involves both written and practical exams. Her workplace has been very supportive, providing additional training that helped her become confident in her skills and even manage the business side of a salon.
“Supercuts offers extra training that’s been really helpful,” Karina noted. “It helped me build my confidence and learn new techniques, and I even became a manager thanks to their support.”
This young stylist’s journey from a high school student to a beloved hairstylist in Greenwood is a testament to how passion and dedication can bring both personal and professional fulfillment. As she continues to cut, dye, and style hair, her clients can rest assured they are in capable and caring hands.
Stay dry, Greenwood, and don’t forget to take care of yourselves — whether that means a cozy day indoors or a refreshing visit to the salon.
