Chelsea James – NAHA 2019
Since its humble beginnings in 1989, NAHA finalists and industry elite have brought this iconic photographic beauty competition to new heights year after year. NAHA continues to recognize the beauty industry’s most talented artists and advance the careers of stylists around the world. Nothing makes us happier than meeting artists we REALLY want to root for… Good people who love the industry, value education and aren’t afraid to put in the hard work.
What one word describes how you felt when you wrapped your NAHA shoot?
Satiated
How does competing help you as an artist?
Countless ways. It helps me become better in these ways
As a leader
At organizations
Realizing my vision
Adapting
Story boarding
Asking for help
Patience
Commitment
Failure
Success
Technically
Creativity
Innovation
Originality
Timing
Perpetration
Mental fortitude
Relationship building
Interviewing
Facing fears
Work ethic
Humor
Beyond hair, what other creative outlets do you have?
I’m a museum addict, I love art and painting. I play guitar and paint my clothes and shoes. I make videos and love multi media.
Tell us your life story in 3 sentences
Drug addict alcoholic who joined military due to lack of options.
Prison, fired a million times, rehab, halfway houses, community service, community college, cosmo school, salon and advanced education.
Success, joy happiness, creation, gratitude, loving magical relationships, growth laughter and overall genuine life worth living with limitless possibilities
If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing?
Probably something in fashion or trend forecasting…
What was your biggest F-up with a client?
Um… I cut someone’s ear once. Terrifying
Real life advice to someone entering the world of cosmetology?
Practice and advanced education. Figure out how to add value to those you admire and learn from them
I knew I was a Hair Nerd when…
Honestly I didn’t figure that out until I dove heavily into advanced education. I didn’t even know nice salons existed until I was like 21.