“Now it’s about adapting to the new way of the industry.”
Christal Dimakos
What country are you from and where do you reside?
I am Greek Canadian and currently reside in Oakville, Ontario!
Title of what you do and/or what company.
I am the owner and hairstylist at Hairology Beauty Studio Inc. in Vaughan, Ontario.
Education background (school, salons, self-taught)?
In 2004, I attended Seneca College for Esthetics & Spa Management and took a night class for advanced makeup techniques. Once I completed college, I enrolled in the Hair diploma program at Y.A.L.C. I am always taking classes and attending Hair & Esthetic shows in Canada and the United States to keep up with current trends and techniques.
What is the first creative project that you remember?
One of my first creative projects was when I signed up for “The 2011 Toronto Image Awards”. We were put into groups of one hairstylist, a makeup artist, a photographer and a fashion stylist. We were given a look we had to create as a team and competed against other teams. I was put into 2 different teams each Sunday for 6 weeks. In week 2, I won the award for “Most Artistic Stylist” and in our last week, we won the award for “The Top Team”. That was an amazing experience!
What is your signature style/artistic expression of your work?
My signature style is for every day! It’s sleek, done… but not overdone. I like to make people feel confident so I listen to their concerns and do their hair based on what makes them feel pretty. I think it’s okay to have flaws and not be perfect. I say embrace it, just be the best you for you! I don’t like my photos edited, they’re raw. I see so much beauty in my finished work on an actual human being! If I can make you feel more confident by doing your hair, then I’ve done my job!
What is the most fulfilling job you’ve worked on or a person you have worked with?
The most fulfilling job I’ve worked on was opening Hairology Beauty Studio Inc. 6 years ago. It still is fulfilling as I continue to operate it and adapt along the way. A couple of my employees have been working with me for 12+ years. We simply just wanted a positive environment to work in where we could grow and thrive as Hairstylists. These Hairstylists trusted me on this journey and being able to grow with my team as an owner, a hairstylist and just as a person has been everything to me. I get to help guide others in this industry and ensure they’re successful. When they’re happy, enjoy coming to work and are making money, I am also happy and fulfilled!
Do you have a career turning point, big break, or person that has helped your career?
I can’t say I’ve had a big break, I haven’t won the lottery yet lol. I think just surrounding yourself with people who support you and can guide you along the way make all the difference on this journey of success. When I was younger, my dad owned a few restaurants, he was an entrepreneur at heart. He was definitely my go-to person for business advice over the years. I’m thankful to have had his help before he passed. I make sure I continue to keep a tight circle of motivated, driven people around me, salon ownership isn’t easy on your own!
What was the scariest and proudest moment in your career?
The scariest moment in my career was exiting a partnership of a former salon. It can be scary going out on your own and there are bound to be hardships along the way. It’s also my proudest moment. It takes hard work and a lot of determination to open your own business!
What is next for your career goals?
Up next in my career… if you would have asked me this 2 years ago I would have told you I’m expanding and creating a franchise! Now it’s about adapting to the new way of the industry. It’s definitely more about quality over quantity for me. I want more time to focus on my loyal clients and continue to grow as a hairstylist. I also have my own brand of hair extensions so I want to focus more on that as well. I’m going to be planning some more creative photoshoots. I love being able to go all in with colour and styling to get my creativity out there.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in your business?
The advice I would give to anyone starting out in this industry… stay driven and motivated by attending hair shows and classes. Do things outside of your comfort zone, that’s how you will grow and gain confidence. Most importantly, build relationships! Build them with everyone who sits in your chair, that’s how you will gain your clientele. Network with people in the industry that’s how you will gain new opportunities!
