Katrina Ruiz

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 found out you were a finalist?

Breathless

How does competing help you as an artist?

Artistically competing I feel is my forte. Behind the chair can become repetitive. Doing shoots, publications and competitions. I grow not only from trial and error but i grow from the team. Everyone sharing ideas and just everyone being included it brings out the best in me.

Biggest worry about the night? Is it what to wear or acceptance speech?

Neither. I’m worried sick, even had nightmares of my spouse and family forgetting their badges to enter the show!

Describe yourself in 5 words.

Spunky, Stubborn, Inventive, Courageous, Encouraging

If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing?

Ever since I was little my cousin Teaerra and I talked about having are own salon and spa we would create a custom brand/line. We would have skincare,makeup, perfume, hair products. With our logo on all of it.

Describe the creative journey of your NAHA shoot in emojis.

Real life advice to someone entering the world of cosmetology.

Follow your heart always. If this is what you want to do, then do it. One hundred percent. Dont be a half ass stylist. Take your time. Always carry band-aides and tweezers. Read, not just your milady book but hundreds of books from cutting to styling to self help and understanding different personalities. Fall in love with this career and industry. It can and will take u far if you want it too. Listen, Listen very closely not only to ur teachers but to ur clients. Listen threw body language and gestures. Be willing to learn u never know enough. Have courage and be kind. You never know who sent this client to you. You never know if they are undercover for the next best thing in your life. Or what if their an angel. Be understanding. Accidents happen. Be honest. Fix your mistakes your clients will always find them. Have fun and love what you do.

I knew I was a Hair Nerd when…

When I attended one of Larry Curtis Annual Taylor Andrews Hair shows many years ago. I was asked to photograph so stylists hair pieces. Larry talked about NAHA so after the show I went home and did a ton of research. I seen collections and fell in love. In 2013 I watched NAHA show in Vegas live online. During the show the foundation called Look Good Feel Better talked about its program. I was familiar with this group of wonderful people. After finding out NAHA celebrated this foundation and recognized something close to my heart, I knew at that moment the Hair Nerd in me was unleashed.