Stylist Spotlights #withVIRTUE: Shantel Mitchell

Shantel Mitchell, a stylist at Sublime Salon in Sparks, Nevada, was born for this role. From the time she was a child, her favorite doll was a Crimp and Curl Cabbage Patch Kid. She became the go-to girl for high school updos, and then the neighborhood cut and colorist at age 16. “I didn’t even take my SATs because they weren’t a requirement in Beauty School,” she said.

We caught up with Shantell about her journey to becoming a stylist, her worst haircut ever, and what fascinates her most about the career for which she was destined.

What made you decide to become a stylist? 

I became a stylist because my passion for hair has never wavered. Funny enough, it’s one of the only things in life I have all the patience in the world for. It’s an art that’s never stagnant; the sky’s the limit.

What is the most challenging thing about your job or the salon industry? 

The balance between the salon and home. I want to be the busiest, most successful stylist I can be, while also being the best wife and mom. It can feel there are not enough hours in the day to be in both places.

What has been your most memorable moment in your career as a stylist? 

Meeting Sam Villa. I take online classes from him all the time, and no I have met him twice. I was starstruck.

Is there anyone in the industry or beyond that you admire or who has inspired you in your career? 

I admire the passion in stylists around me, as well as those on social media who are always learning, but also sharing their ideas in order to help teach others.

What is your unique approach to beauty and style? 

My unique approach to beauty comes from my scientific side. The color wheel fascinates me for being so basic. It’s really the biggest tool we hold, but don’t reference enough unless something goes wrong. I also love the science behind ingredients and why they’re beneficial.

What is your favorite trend/style currently?

I love the natural look––not necessarily balayage, per se, but ensuring that the beauty we’re born with is enhanced and not altered.

What one piece of advice would you give a stylist just starting their career?

It’s not a job if you love what you do. I’m excited to wake up every day and be creative on a new canvas!

What was the worst haircut or color you ever had?

I can’t say I’ve ever had the worst color or cut. I’ve had challenges to fix, but not a particular one stands out.

Worst haircut or color you ever gave someone else?

The worst cut I ever gave someone was, unfortunately, on my sister or my husband. I was trying to show off my skills with the thinning shears. Enough said.

What’s your personal hair routine?

It’s mostly all Virtue products. I only wash my hair with Recovery Shampoo and Conditioner every 3–4 days. I cocktail the 6-In-1 Styler with my Affinage Kitoko Oil and run it from mid shaft to the ends, then blow dry and style. I finish with my Split End Mender on my ends and to separate my curls.

What other things are you passionate about that aren’t hair related?

Family time and my health. When I’m not at work, my husband and I are at school events or our kids’ sporting events. I’m in the gym six days a week; I’m currently trying to be a bikini competitor in the NPC Mother Lode competition. We love to travel and camp. We love concerts and football (we’re huge Eagles fans). We spend a lot of time with family and friends, and we’re usually the ones hosting.