Sarah Fogarty

For any service, I always start by asking if they have any photos for inspiration that they’d like to show me. I also like to ask what their every-day makeup/hair routine consists of, because it gives me an idea of what their comfort level may be. For example, someone who never wears a full face of makeup may love a photo of someone else in a full face, but when they see themselves in way more makeup then they’re used to, it can be a shock. For a hair appointment, it gives me an idea of how much maintenance a client is capable of and willing to put into their hair. I like to ask if they have any allergies or know of any products that irritate the skin. After choosing the best products for the client, I mentally map out what I want the end result to look like, and I’ll confirm each part of my plan with the client to ensure we’re on the same page. When the consultation is over and I get to work, I like to check periodically with the client that they like how it’s coming together thus far. This way, we can make changes and adjustments as needed. I believe one of the most important parts of my job is building a trusting relationship. To me, it’s crucial that each person who sits in my chair knows that they can be honest with me about what they like and what they don’t. At the end of the day, making you feel happy and beautiful and confident is what matters to me the most!

I completed my mandatory 1,000 hours of cosmetology education and passed my state board exam to receive my cosmetology license through New York state. When I worked at the salon in Ulta, I completed all of the salon training provided by Ulta Beauty, beginning with stylist classes and eventually moving on to the title of Master Stylist and then Elite Stylist. I was also trained as a Salon Manager at Ulta and became one of the youngest stylists to ever manage a salon at any of their locations. Additionally, I am trained and certified in Tape-in extensions.

My mom is a hairdresser, and ever since I was young I would spend tons of time with her in the salon. I always loved it, and as I grew older I became increasingly passionate about the beauty industry. I started by cleaning and doing little jobs around the salon, to shadowing her and the other stylists, to apprenticing and then finally getting licensed and going off on my own!

Make sure you vibe with your stylist! I know it may sound corny, but it is so important that your stylist makes your comfort, happiness and vision their priority. If you feel uncomfortable giving your opinion, feedback or criticism because your stylist gets defensive, prideful, or argumentative, they’re most definitely NOT the right fit for you! Finding your best look should be a combined effort of both you and your stylist, and a professional should welcome your insight!

The questions clients should ask themselves is entirely dependent on what the project is. However, in general I would say it’s important to know what your budget is, and how much time will be allotted to the project. If the client is hiring a stylist on behalf of their wedding party but does not plan on paying for the services which the party receives, then that client should ensure the services are within their party’s budget as well. If the stylist is being hired to travel to the event location, the client should communicate with the stylist to ensure that there is enough space for the stylist to work comfortably. Also, when the client is looking at inspiration photos and choosing the look that they want, they should ask themselves if the look is achievable, and whether it’s something they would feel comfortable and confident in. This is also something I would recommend discussing with your stylist as they may be able to provide unbiased insight as to whether or not a style can be done, and can give an expert opinion as to what would look best on you.