Meet Kristina Ziebell | Hair Stylist & Business Owner

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

Hi Kristina, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
At this point I’ve been a hair stylist for over 7 years. I moved to San Diego from Chicago (where I was born & raised) in September of 2020. For some reason I was always too scared to go on my own and start my own business as an independent hair stylist in Chicago, even though I had a pretty solid clientele seeing as that’s where I’m from and knew tons of people. I was always afraid to leave the W2 salon environment and go on my own. Then when I moved to San Diego, I was W2 for maybe the first 6 months and thought…you know what, moving across the country was the biggest risk I’ve ever taken and so far I’m doing fine, why not take another risk? So I went on my own business venture. I learned ways to market myself as an individual to gain clientele, as well as kept some of the clients from the first salon I worked at here that helped me with referrals. Since then I’ve also rented chairs at a couple really cool booth rental salons until I found the right fit for my business. It feels amazing to have that independence and freedom as a business owner, but it is definitely a ton of work.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
When I first started out, I tried to do everything that a hair stylist could possibly offer as far as services. Then I was able to realize what my strengths were and what I enjoyed doing most, and stopped offering certain services so that I could make sure I’m always producing my best work. When you first start out you make mistakes, not everyone likes their hair, and it can be hard. Once you realize what your strengths are and focus on making those even better, your dream clientele finds you. At this point in my career, I specialize in color but I also do hair cuts and extensions. Some of my favorite types of colors to do are vivids, blondes, and color corrections. I’ve always continued to take business classes and continuing education hair classes to keep my skills sharp. I’ve learned that this industry is constantly changing, and you have to put in the work to keep up.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Obviously I have to take them to the beach (get some sun, go down the boardwalk for some food and drinks). One of my favorite spots to take people is PB shore club because the vibes are always awesome, it’s right on the beach, and you can get some really good drinks. I’ve also taken people whale watching since there’s not a lot of that going on back home in Chicago. I also think one of the coolest things about San Diego is the proximity to Mexico. You can take a nice little “international” day trip and then come right back home to San Diego.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family and friends have been so supportive throughout this whole process and they have definitely helped push me to get to where I am and to keep going. I also can’t fail to recognize that I wouldn’t be here without my amazing CLIENTS. I feel like they’re not only my clients but also my friends. It feels amazing to not only make them feel beautiful and add to their self confidence, but also to be there for them during major life events and having them open up to me about their life. Thank you to all of my loyal clients for always coming back to me, sending referrals, posting my business on your stories, trusting me, and so much more!

Instagram: Beautybykristinaz