Michelle O’Conner – 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 hit submit on your entry?
It’s always filled with angst, fear, excitement, and nervousness. Eventually I get to a place of acceptance of how I felt about my collection personally and if I felt that I left it all on the table and did my absolute best then I am at peace with that.
How does competing help you as an artist?
Well for me it’s a push creatively. It’s one of the few outlets where I get to really conceptualize my vision from beginning to end. To do it yearly signifies growth.
Beyond hair, what other creative outlets do you have?
Hair is my main creative outlet, however I also have a passion for fashion!
Tell us your life story in 3 sentences
I was born to immigrant parents. I always excelled creatively, training as a dancer from a young age. I am the mother to a beautiful, smart and analytical as opposed to creative young man!
If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing?
I would have been a designer or worked in fashion.
What’s your biggest fear in life or your career?
My biggest fear in my career is not knowing what the future holds. That is a blessing and a curse.
Real life advice to someone entering the world of cosmetology
It’s a beautiful life. It’s filled with opportunity. You get out of it what you put in to it!
