Meet Rochelle Sunglao | Hairstylist, Colorist, and Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rochelle Sunglao and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rochelle, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Pursuing an artistic career came to me after having an emergency surgery when I was 20 years old. Post surgery, I had to take a leave of absence while attending SDSU. During that time, I was dealing with a lot of emotions. I had my first major medical scare, and I questioned so many things about my path. It ultimately came down to two questions, “Is this path going to sustain and fulfill me? Who am I really doing this for?” The first answer was an easy no, the second answer was something more complicated. Ultimately I realized that I was doing the traditional path because of obligations I thought I had to satisfy. I wasn’t pursuing a life by my design. I felt a lot of familial, cultural, and societal pressure to take the road well traveled.

After envisioning the life I wanted outside of a career, I saw that leaning into a creative field would help me have the work/life balance I desired. Work isn’t meant to be your life, but it does support the values and relationships that are important to you in financial terms and in the allocation of your time. Lastly, I honestly don’t think I would have lasted in an office. I’m sure that at some point I would have realized that the creative path was always meant for me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My professional journey has allowed me to take part in a lot of fun projects over the course of my career. I’ve used my hairstyling and makeup skills to participate in photo shoots, short films, special events, and product catalogs. Hair and makeup can really help tie a look together and it’s been wonderful to have pushed myself to work outside of the typical salon environment.

Throughout my entire hair career, I’ve continually tried to learn and refine my skills. Continuing education is essential for anyone in my industry. With all the advancements in product development and beauty technologies, the change I’ve seen through my career has been astounding. That being said, education and mentorship are huge! No matter your industry, it’s really valuable to find people to learn from, take additional classes, and to share your knowledge with others. This elevates industries as a whole, and can be especially beneficial for creatives.

Don’t get me wrong, there are times where I’ve jumped into projects and felt out of my depth. I’ve had to take a pause and really reach back into all my knowledge to help me through those situations. I personally benefited from working as a salon assistant in a company that had a training program. While I assisted, I was able to have multiple mentors and learn the ins and outs of salon culture. I was able to really cultivate my unique customer service style. I was able to pick and choose the customer service skills that aligned most with my values and that’s part of why some of my clients have been with me for over 15 years.

The best advice I ever got was to learn as much as you can, and always put things into practice! The more I can get my hands in hair, the better. I can repeat the things I’ve learned and refine my skills, or I can revisit techniques. Having a strong foundation will always steer you through difficulties. A solid grasp of the basics and technique give you better footing for success. If there’s something you don’t know, seek the answers or examples. If there’s someone who can help you become better, ask them questions. If you’re unclear about something, ask more questions until you get clarity. Growth is part of the journey towards mastery. Be open to learning from as many sources as possible, and it’s amazing what it can unlock.

Sometimes, you just need to fight the imposter syndrome and dive in. I’ve hyped myself up to say yes to things even though I had anxiety about it. I fought a lot of anxious feelings and just showed up and gave things a shot. I’ve never regretted it, even if the end result wasn’t what I was hoping for. If it wasn’t a success, it became a learning opportunity. I’m just glad I won’t have to live with the, ” what if?” Knowing where I can grow and if I’m capable is worth more than not trying at all. The best thing I’ve done for myself is enroll in cosmetology school. I had a lot of reservations at the beginning, but I now live with no regrets. That will always make it worth it for me.

My path wasn’t linear. I worked a corporate salon structure, and on my days off I still worked to pursue creative endeavors. After my time wrapped there, I went independent to create more freedom for myself. I learned a lot about the business side of the industry and pursued education for a hair care brand. The opportunity to become a salon co-owner came about and I stretched myself again in learning about the business on a different level. At the start of the year, I made the choice to forego ownership. I’m currently working independent again, but now I’m looking to really focus on education and mentorship. I’ve seen several parts of the salon industry, but the thing that has always been important to me is education. It’s something that the best in my field always pursue. This next phase of my career is exciting because I’ll be able to really focus on the part of it that is the most essential. The education I’ve received has been the reason for my success as a stylist. I look forward to helping others refine their skill sets so that we can all positively contribute to the growth of our industry.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
San Diego is full of great things to do, places to eat, and you can really choose your lifestyle. It never hurts that our weather allows you to have so many outdoor options. It’s hard to really pin down my favorite things to do and to show people. Being a native, I try my best to share the things that I love but also consider the things my friends enjoy too.

If you’re my friend then food is definitely on our agenda. Brunch is one of my favorite social things to do. Morning Glory is fun because the whole place is a photo opportunity. Jiggly soufflé pancakes dance on plates, the beverages are pretty, the music is fun and it has become one of the biggest brunch places in town. For a more low key brunch, that’s pure comfort and no frills, Sunny Boy Biscuit Co. is my choice. Biscuits, gravy, fried chicken, and other comfort food can start the day before sightseeing.

Coffee shops are plentiful around town. I try my best to spread the love around to all the local owned spots. There’s a great coffee culture. Some of my favorite places are Ryan Bros, James Coffee, Mostra, and Dark Horse. If you need caffeine, any of those places and so many more will fit the bill.

Shopping around town gives you so many options. If you’re looking for something unique, I enjoy Hunt & Gather for curated vintage and local made accessories. If you want some cute gifts to bring back home Pigment has everything you need from kids toys, to key chains, lifestyle and home items. You can get your luxury or specialty brand fix at Fashion Valley Mall or UTC. If you’re a bargain hunter, the outlets in Carlsbad or down south at Las Americas are great places to find deals.

Between miles of beaches, a massive cultural center called Balboa Park, hiking trails, and water activities in the bay, the choices can be overwhelming. You can pick your own adventure, which sometimes makes it hard to decide. Taking the Old Town Trolley tour gives you a chance to learn about some of San Diego history, see our most popular attractions, and get to know the lay of the land. That’s a great way to narrow down your choices.

If you’re looking for nightlife, you can find clubs in the Gaslamp. A lot of bars have djs, so you can find whatever music you prefer. If you want to catch a concert, the Observatory schedule is always worth checking out.

Really and truly, there’s countless things to recommend and do. Always ask a native or local! That’s the best way to find what you’re looking for.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First shout out goes to my mom. She’s no longer with us after passing from cancer in 2011. We shared a tenuous relationship, and it’s honestly because we’re so much alike. I’m strong willed, and value my independence. While she tried her best to guide me, we didn’t always agree. The nature I inherited from her plays a huge part in the choices I’ve made and continue to make for myself. Now I want to honor her legacy, and if I amount to half the force she was, then I’m in good shape. Her vibrance, flair for the dramatic, and love of color and pattern are among the ways I model after her. She showed me that taking time in your appearance was a way to feel good about yourself. That little bit of pride in yourself helps you to take on the world with your head held high.

My younger siblings Fernan and Rita have been major influences in how I’ve learned to nurture and care for others. My relationships with them have helped me be a more tender, kind, and compassionate person. Being the eldest daughter in a Filipino immigrant family has challenged me to navigate my influence on them to be good people. I try to model a life that opens them up to all possibility. Seeing how Fernan has started his own business despite the challenges with covid makes me really proud. GÜDMÜDFÜD was born from our family values. We have been inspired by our parents to forge our paths, just as they did when they immigrated. Watching my brother love people through cooking and creating community really warms my heart.

My dad has been the biggest cheerleader in my life. He’s given me confidence in my abilities and he has always believed that I could achieve whatever I put my mind to. He has been a constant, always giving me unconditional love and support. I know that he’s always a little worried when he doesn’t fully understand my journey, but in spite of that he always gives me the space to spread my wings and a soft place to land. He’s provided me a freedom that has allowed me to become who I am today, as well as the framework of who I continually evolve into.

My partner Dave, and all my friends deserve recognition for adding to the wealth of kindness that surrounds me. Dave’s unconditional love and support rivals that of my dad. He’s my best friend. Dave along with my friends have witnessed me go through several challenges in my personal and professional life. They remind me that the hustle isn’t what defines me. They keep me grounded by sharing many laughs, holding space, and holding me accountable. Dave and my dearest friends are my chosen family. I’m very lucky to have them on my side.

Lastly, everyone who’s ever given me their trust to be their stylist deserves a huge thank you. It’s really not just about hair. Clients who have been with me throughout my career have become really dear to me. Being able to share in their journey while providing a safe space is a gift for all involved. Seeing their eyes light up after a service keeps me motivated to be a better stylist and human being. There’s something special about feeling seen, but there is absolute magic in seeing yourself while you radiate confidence and power.

I wouldn’t be who I am without all of the people who crossed my path. I’m grateful that every person has played a unique role in my journey.

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