Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren McGrath.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always been a creative and artistic person — I used to draw a lot as a kid, and I was constantly cutting my Barbie’s hair. We didn’t go to salons often growing up; my mom did most things on a budget, so when we did get haircuts, it felt like such a treat. I think that’s where my love for it really started — the way something so small could make me feel special.
As a teenager, I struggled a lot with self-confidence, and I found that hair and makeup gave me a way to express myself and feel more like me. I started experimenting with box dyes and home colors, and one of the first things I did when I got a job at 16 was book an appointment at the local beauty school to have my hair done by someone who actually knew what they were doing — even if they were still learning!
After high school, I enrolled in cosmetology school, but I wasn’t able to finish at the time due to financial hardships. I ended up working as a CNA for about five years, which taught me so much about caring for people and connecting on a deeper level. During that time, I had my oldest daughter, and I realized that nursing hours just weren’t sustainable for a single mom. So, at 24, I decided to go back to cosmetology school and finally finish what I had started.
My first job out of school was with a large corporate salon. It was a valuable experience, but it also showed me what kind of environment I didn’t want to be in. I almost quit the industry altogether, but then a recruiter — who had actually been a secret shopper — reached out after seeing how I interacted with my client. She offered me a position with another company, and that completely changed things for me.
With that company, I gained confidence, knowledge, friendships, and so many new skills through education and classes. A few years later, I decided to open my own private suite, Nightingale Salon. At the time, I had just had my two youngest children within a year of each other, and I felt confident that this new space would give me more flexibility for my family while creating a more personal, comfortable experience for my clients.
I ran Nightingale for a little over six years before realizing I missed the energy and companionship of being around other stylists. That led me to join my friend Meghan Balkan at Bond Beauty Collective, and since moving there, I’ve felt a real sense of peace. It brought back a new kind of joy and excitement for the industry. Even after more than ten years behind the chair, I’ve learned that you can still grow and evolve — especially when you’re surrounded by others who inspire you.
The connections I’ve built with my clients are what keep me going. They’ve become like family to me, and I’m beyond lucky to have them in my life. I love being able to help people feel a renewed sense of confidence, and to create a space where they can be 100% themselves — through every season of life. Being a stylist is about so much more than outward appearance. I’ve cried tears of joy and sadness with my clients, and those bonds mean the world to me.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. There were times when I felt really low — dealing with personal losses, challenging relationships, and periods where my confidence was shaken. Those seasons were tough, but they taught me resilience, patience, and the value of surrounding myself with people who support me.
Those experiences have also shaped the way I connect with people. I’ve learned to meet clients wherever they are, no matter their background or personality, and to create a space where they feel seen and understood. I think my own life experiences allow me to connect with such a wide variety of people, and those challenges ultimately made me a more empathetic stylist and a more compassionate person.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a stylist who loves turning hair into a little piece of art. Color is my favorite playground — everything from bold, fashion shades to perfect blonding — and I always make sure the hair stays healthy while we have fun with it. I also do cuts and extensions, making sure every look fits my client’s style and personality.
What I really love, though, is the people side of it. I create a space where clients feel seen, safe, and confident, and I get to connect with all kinds of personalities along the way. Helping someone leave the chair feeling like themselves — only a little more bold, bright, or confident — is honestly the best part of my job.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I think finding a mentor or building your network is all about being genuine, curious, and kind. For me, it’s been really valuable to connect with people whose work I admire, ask questions, observe, and learn from them. Showing that you’re eager to grow and willing to put in the work usually opens doors.
I’ve also learned that looking for the best in others and treating everyone with kindness goes a long way — you never know who you’re going to meet or what opportunity might come from a simple conversation. Networking doesn’t have to be intimidating; it’s really about building real relationships and surrounding yourself with people who inspire and support your growth.
Pricing:
- Haircut is $55
- Extensions are $100 an hour
- Color retouch $85
- Highlight price starts at $135
- Specialty colors start at $170
Contact Info:
- Website: https://laurenmcgrath.glossgenius.com
- Instagram: @nightingale_hair
