Life and Work with Sharaya Jones

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharaya Jones.

Sharaya, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I originally thought I wanted to be an Interior Designer, but that thought quickly disappeared when I realized how stressful it would be. I still wanted to do something creative and fun, something I could do for the rest of my life and not get bored with. I loved the fashion world (secretly, I don’t think anyone actually knew that since I wore nothing but basketball shorts and t-shirts, haha), and I figured I liked doing hair and that could be my way in. Turns out, I LOVE doing hair, it really is my passion. After graduating from Toni&Guy Hairdressing Academy, I worked for Floyd’s Barbershop when they were a much smaller company. But when they became more corporate, I moved around to a few small business salons after that trying to find my “home.” Finally, I landed at Foundation Hair Studio where I’ve been able to really grow and push my career immensely.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has definitely not been a smooth road haha. I was actually an alcoholic at the beginning of my career, so I think I just made it harder on myself. Even now it’s still sometimes a struggle, even though I’m beginning to really gain momentum towards my ultimate goals. I found out I was bipolar and had generalized anxiety disorder when I was 20, it made me figure out a way to deal with life differently. It’s tough for me to just jump even when it seems really scary. The biggest lesson I’ve learned through dealing with a mental disorder, getting sober, and having really bad anxiety is this: If it seems scary, but could propel you further, jump. Just take a deep breath and do it. The worst thing that can happen is that you’ll end up exactly where you’re at right now.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Hair by Raya J – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I’ve been a men’s grooming specialist for most of my career. I’ve always had this super passion for giving men the same sense of confidence, as well as the same quality as service, as women received. I am also proud to be an Ouidad Certified Curl specialist and am totally obsessed with all curly hair. I get the most excitement though, out of doing “mermaid/unicorn/rainbow” hair and editorial work. Like I mentioned earlier, I got into this for the fashion side. I’ve been published multiple times, and this year I will be published twice internationally! I also educate for the haircare brand Eufora International based in San Diego, CA. I feel pretty blessed to work for such an amazing company that truly backs me as a hairstylist and continues to grow me and help me reach my goals. I’ve always liked learning, I’m an education junkie for sure. Some months, I’ll take up to five classes a month just to keep learning. I’m a huge, huge believer in continuing education. You will never know everything, but I’m sure going to try!

Were there people and/or experiences you had in your childhood that you feel laid the foundation for your success?
Absolutely. Both of my parents are constantly on the go. I don’t think either of them knows how to be bored. So, growing up, we were constantly doing sports, art, dance, gymnastics, music lessons, going to museums, always learning and growing our minds. I think that absolutely plays a part in my “need” for constant education. They’re both extremely hard workers and raised me to have a crazy work ethic… maybe too crazy sometimes. Sitting still, being lazy, taking a break are all foreign words to me and it’s allowed me to relentlessly go after what I want.

Contact Info:

• Address: Foundation Hair Studio
  2021 E Colfax Ave
  Denver, CO 80206
• Phone: 7205429511
• Email: rayadoeshair@gmail.com
• Instagram: @raya_lyn

Image Credit:
Photography by EJ Carr & Leslie Van Stelten, Models: Jarade Blackmon, Robin Hinton, Alicia Myers and Samantha Joseph, Wardrobe by Menez

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