First Branding Session: Hair by Omaira
Since getting back into photography as a hobby, I’ve been dreaming of doing professional shoots. I dream about being a photographer for a living, and while I’m not sure if that will ever become a full time job for me, I’ve started to think about ways to expand my portfolio and get more practice in trying to work with clients. Enter: Omaira Sanchez.
A little history about me…
As a kid, my parents had me get my hair cut in a very similar style of above shoulder length with bangs. Later in elementary school, I convinced my parents to let me grow out my hair and bangs. By the time I was in middle school, I was finally ready to upgrade my haircut a bit more, and even begin to experiment with highlighting my hair. I found a great hair stylist I liked at the local Hair Cuttery. She became the ONLY hair stylist I would go to for the better part of about 15 years. I would move salons if she moved salons, I would hold off a needed haircut and style for months if I was away at college until I had a visit home to be able to see her. She even did my cut and highlights for me before my wedding.
However, after living in northern, VA for 10 years, it was time for me to find a local hair stylist that I didn’t have to travel all the way to Maryland, just for a cut and style. I tried out a couple of local places but was never quite happy with the service of the salon, never found a good connection with the stylist, or they just didn’t quite do my hair the way I wanted it to look.
A few years ago after a terrible experience trying to book an appointment at the salon I assumed would just be the place I’d settle for, I got fed up and looked for another hair stylist. I found this place called Salon Vie, which had several independent stylists working in the same location. After reading through the bios and specialties of the different stylists at the studio, I decided that Omaira seemed like a good choice for me.
When I went to my first appointment, I immediately felt like she was going to be the perfect hair stylist for me. She was extremely welcoming and was clearly focused on the clients and making them feel comfortable and happy. She was cautious in warning me about decisions I might want to think through more, while also being willing to try and do anything I requested. Of course, my hair turned out perfectly! I went to see her a couple more times at this location, and she soon after announced that she was leaving the salon - a moment of panic for me! I had just found the perfect hairstylist, and now she was leaving?!
But not to worry… she was leaving to start her OWN business! Honestly, I was impressed, and really excited for her. Of course, I moved with her to the new studio. She now works independently in her own individual studio at Sola Salons Riverside Square in Ashburn, VA. Her studio is small, quaint, and the perfect space to feel like you are really getting a personalized hairstyle. You are the one and only client seen during your appointment, so you get her full attention. She uses high-quality products and is incredibly attentive to detail. She provides a welcoming and cozy vibe with many live plants and complimentary drinks or snacks if you need any during the appointment.
Since I have been considering expanding my work as a photography hobbyist, at my most recent appointment, I decided to ask Omaira if she might be interested in a mini branding session to support her business while helping build up my portfolio. She immediately jumped at the opportunity, stating she was thinking about getting professional photos taken in the new year. Omaira had never done a branding session, and neither had I, so I took this as an opportunity to just get out there and try something.
Check out what we came up with below!
If you are in northern Virginia or have plans to travel here and need to get your hair done, I highly recommend booking at Hair By Omaira!
Omaira Sanchez is a multi-certified hairstylist with a passion for delivering hair artistry and service excellence exceeding client expectations. She has strengths in achieving custom cut, color, and design solutions meeting client needs and lifestyles. Be sure to check out more about her and the services she provides on her website: https://omairacardenassanchez.glossgenius.com/ and follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hair_by_omaira/
As a newbie in the professional field, I am always open to constructive criticism, praise, and comments. Which shots are your favorite?! Let me know!
