Brian Hawkins, an esteemed figure in the beauty industry, recalls his initial fascination with creative arts during his formative years. He says, “I have always had a creative side to myself since I was a kid. I knew in high school that I wanted to be a Hairstylist but my parents wanted me to attend college and I did.” Despite his creative inclinations, Hawkins embarked on a conventional path, completing college and entering the corporate world. However, it wasn’t long before the disconnect between his job and his passions led him to reevaluate his career trajectory. Hawkins shared, “I worked in corporate America for years but wasn’t happy or fulfilled because I wasn’t using my creative side.”
A Turn Towards Passion
At the age of 34, Hawkins decided to pursue his true calling. He enrolled at Paul Mitchell The School in Columbus, Ohio, a decision that profoundly changed his life. “It changed at the age of 34 when I left corporate life, and enrolled in Cosmetology School at Paul Mitchell The School Columbus Ohio and I have been fulfilled ever since!” This bold step was not just about learning the techniques of hairstyling and makeup but embracing a career that resonated with his inner creativity.
Educational Influence
Reflecting on the influence of his formal training, Hawkins emphasized the comprehensive education he received, which prepared him for all aspects of hair and makeup. “I chose PMTS for the sake of not only receiving what’s required for State Board licensing, but also for the opportunity to receive advanced education in hair and makeup,” Hawkins explained. This education equipped him to work with all hair textures and skin tones, enhancing his marketability and expanding his career opportunities significantly over the past two decades.
Diversity in Skills
Hawkins takes pride in his ability to work with diverse hair textures and types, from coloring and balayage to smoothing services. He finds it rewarding to meet the needs of any client that sits in his chair, a testament to his extensive education and experience. “That no matter who sits in my chair, regardless of their skin tone and/or hair texture, I am able to confidently provide the service(s) they want,” he stated, underscoring the importance of continuous learning in his profession.
Tailoring Makeup Artistry
When it comes to makeup, Hawkins’s approach is meticulous, focusing on the details that highlight the natural beauty of diverse skin tones. His ability to tailor makeup services showcases his keen eye for color and detail, which are crucial in the beauty industry.
Influence of Fashion Cities
Hawkins has maintained a significant presence in major fashion hubs like Los Angeles, Miami, and New York, which have uniquely influenced his work, particularly in fashion weeks and runway shows. “Each location has a different aesthetic if you will but they are all fashion forward in their own demographic,” he notes. This exposure has enriched his stylistic approach, blending timeless looks with contemporary trends.
Highlights from Fashion and Media
The opportunity to work with top names in fashion and seeing his work featured in major media outlets like Bravo, Lifetime, and NBC, particularly on movie sets with stars like John Travolta, has been a thrilling aspect of his career. Each project brings its own set of challenges and rewards, but it’s the consistency and attention to detail that differentiate media and film projects from other beauty projects.
Editorial Prestige
His work has graced the pages of prestigious magazines such as Allure, Essence, and Elle. The preparation for these editorial shoots is meticulous, involving vision boards and practice sessions to ensure flawless execution on the day of the shoot.
Community and Volunteer Work
Despite a demanding schedule, Hawkins is deeply committed to community service. He balances high-profile projects with volunteer work, such as offering haircuts at homeless shelters, which he finds profoundly rewarding. “The fact that something as a haircut, which most who pay for it, would take for granted, the people that I meet in these shelters, are grateful for the haircut,” Hawkins reflects on the impact of his volunteer work.
Educating the Next Generation
Education remains a cornerstone of Hawkins’s career. As a passionate educator, he approaches teaching with a conversational style that resonates with aspiring stylists and makeup artists. His method reflects a deep understanding of different learning styles, ensuring that his students grasp the nuances of the beauty profession.
Staying Relevant
To stay at the forefront of the beauty industry, Hawkins emphasizes the importance of staying updated with the latest trends while also valuing timeless techniques. His approach is to blend innovation with classic styles, ensuring his work remains both contemporary and enduring.
Reflections and Future Prospects
Looking back on nearly two decades in the beauty industry, Hawkins remains committed to his craft and continues to embrace opportunities for growth and innovation. He looks forward to his role as a Regional Educator for Milbon, a Japanese hair care and color company, and anticipates exciting projects on the horizon.
A Message of Empowerment
Brian Hawkins’s career is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the impact of lifelong learning. His journey from a discontented corporate employee to a celebrated beauty expert exemplifies his message to the industry: “There’s always opportunity to live and thrive in your best as long as you choose that path.” Through his work, he inspires others to pursue their passions with dedication and to compete only with themselves, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive future for the beauty industry.
