Lacey Ballard
Where did you grow up? North-central Minnesota in a small town called Detroit Lakes.
Where do you find inspiration? I find inspiration in stories I read, the media I consume, my friends—the subway is a wonderful place to see evolving styles and the different walls of life who wear them.
What do you do besides hair? Writing is my first love. I've been a writer since I was about eleven and a storyteller for even longer. I write mostly long fiction, almost always character-driven fantasy peppered with elements of science fiction or horror. Of course, I also love reading, theater, philosophy, and recently embroidery.
What do you love most about being a hairdresser? I love customization and seeing how the same concept can be perfected differently on a dozen different people with entirely unique outcomes. I'm of the opinion that anything can be tailored for anyone with the right adjustments to suit their identity and lifestyle. Seeing people's desires actualized is one of the most inspiring experiences.
What looks are you into right now? Honestly, as an eternally long-haired girl, I'm really into looks focused on improving the health of the hair. I love forming a long-term plan with my guests to get their hair to their desired condition in a way that feels like it suits their personality. However, my favorite styles to cut are often mid and bob-length cuts; they're so versatile and flattering on so many people, and for me, they tend to be the most rewarding transformations.
Cut- Color - or both? Haircutting is my bread and butter. I got my start as a haircutting specialist and I'm excited to be doing color again too, but haircutting will always hold a special place in my heart.