Mary Curran

Years ago, I was fortunate enough to meet someone who was instantly likeable, able to make me laugh within seconds of knowing her, had an extreme sincere side to her, and to top it all, is a hairstylist. Not only a hairstylist, a fantastic hairstylist! Meet Mary Curran!

As my friendship with Mary grew, I began to discover a person who was very hungry for something much bigger in this industry. All I could do was feel motivated and inspired whenever I was around her. Recalling the day she and I were at a huge Hair Event in Los Angeles, she broke the news to me that she was moving to New York!

I knew she had big plans for herself. Mary turned to the celebrity market with clients like Emma Thompson, Former President Bill Clinton, Rachel Ray, and Martha Stewart…even getting her own segment on The Martha Stewart Show ! She continues working with her local clients behind the chair while enjoying being a newly-wed.

In her spare time, she does so much for her community… as a matter fact, while writing up this story, we all watched in horror as Hurricane Sandy made its way through the East Coast. Mary has put all her business on hold while she in out on the streets helping those in need. Right before the catastrophe hit, I decided to #nerdstalk my long time friend and here is how it all went.

I’m so glad I get to catch up with you! It’s like hanging out with my sister or something. So, let’s start with the greatest city on the planet…NYC!!! Originally, we met in California where you hail from…how did you choose New York as your current destination. 

While living in Long Beach, I started working with local photographers on fashion shoots to acquire high quality prints for my portfolio.  I worked mainly for free in exchange for tear sheets etc.  Through relationships, I built with the people I met along the way I began to book work on magazine shoots both in New York and Los Angeles.

The bookings became more frequent on the East Coast so I decided to make the move and see what would come of it.  The journey has been amazing but it took a great deal of hard work and sacrifice to get here.

At first, I was surprised. I remember the day you told me you were relocating. When I saw you with your own segment on the Martha Stewart Show, I was so thrilled! Tell me, do you have one particular “celebrity” moment that sticks out more than others?

I believe that you can learn something from every client regardless of their line of work.  Being consistent in your craft is crucial.  The only difference between a celebrity client and one you see at the salon is the size of the audience that will critique your work.  I give all of my clients the time and attention, they deserve.

That’s awesome! When you’re on the set with Racheal Ray, I’m sure you talk about hair & food… 
We talk about food all day long.. it's a cooking show, Mark!  haha.

Rachael's recipes are simple and delicious and she has been a wonderful teacher and supporter of my efforts in the kitchen...which started out rather embarrassing.   I was never inspired to cook until I started working with her and her tips and advice about what I should make for dinner are priceless.

A little cooking 101 can be a good thing…especially since you recently tied the knot to a great guy! We have lots of “Hair Husbands” that read our site too! What does Andy thinks about our exciting industry?

I think Andy knows more about beauty then he ever cared to know. haha.   He is incredibly supportive and admires how much I love my job.

It’s always been known that NYC is usually the mecca for the latest fashion & hairstyles. What hairstyles  would I see on 5th avenue?

To be honest, If I were walking down Fifth Avenue most people are either visiting from another state or country and almost everyone is in some sort of hat to stay warm.. it's the holiday season and it's cold.

If you're asking what's on trend here in the NYC from a locals perspective I would say long, wavy, textured hair with side swept fringe...which everyone has whipped up in a bun at the crown of the head and slightly tousled.

With a New York state of mind, what does Mary Curran do to escape the frenzy of the city? 
Andy and I love to cook dinner together at home.  We have a puppy that we adopted and we just can't get enough of her.  I run around all day in the hustle and bustle and love coming home to my little family on the 4th floor.

Girl, we could talk all day, but you gotta work & I gotta write! So give The Hair Nerds some words to live by? 
Never complain, always work harder than the next, be consistent in everything you do, remember who you are and always acknowledge that everyone is important regardless of their position, understand and exude integrity, be nice to everyone... you never know when and where you will run into them again.

*This interview is dedicated to those effected by Hurricane Sandy