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

Hi Kim, how have you been keeping yourself busy during quarantine?
First of all I want to say how much I miss my clients and being able to work behind the chair! I’ve managed to stay sane during quarantine by taking a lot of walks with my dog and being outside as much as possible. The sunshine definitely helps my mood! I’m also taking this time to pay special attention to my hair and skin care routines, doing weekly at home facials and hair masks with limited heat styling.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Building a business is difficult, regardless of the industry. But the amazing thing about cosmetology is the friends you make along the way. I have clients that have been by my side now for 8+ years, and without them Modern Blonde would not exist. It’s taken me a long time to build up the courage to open my own business. At the end of the day, it’s my amazingly loyal clients that help push me forward and not worry so much about the “what if’s”. I’ve spent hundreds of hours educating myself in the most popular and sought after lightening techniques. I strive every day to make sure anyone who sits in my chair can go lighter while maintaining healthy hair. Building a clientele is about building trust on both ends. I need to trust my skill and expertise, and they need to trust my ability and realistic recommendations. The most important thing I have learned over the course of my career is how important it is to invest in yourself. Invest in education. Invest in quality products and tools. Your business is only as strong as your relationship with your clients.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My go to spot for breakfast, lunch, or happy hour is Mas Fina Cantina in Carlsbad. It’s a great local “dive” with good food, cheap drinks and a beachy atmosphere. Followed by a coaster ride to old town San Diego. The Whaley house is a must, and the ghost tour is fun to do at night. My favorite beach is moonlight beach in encinitas, with lots to do and amazing views of the sunset from the upper parking lot.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My favorite esthetician who has provided me with at home facial kits, Crystal Dawn (@skin_by_crystal_dawn)

Website: Modernblonde.glossgenius.com
Instagram: @blondeme_bykim
Facebook: Hair by Kim
Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/modern-blonde-salon-oceanside