From Night School Beauty Enthusiast
to in Demand Beauty Guru.

By appearance, Ms. Mendez has looks that could kill. She radiates beauty and style. By first impression it is made quite clear that she is passionate about all things glam. Yet behind all the beauty and style lies a fiercely passionate, life-long learner; ultimately placing Ale in the “Beauty Guru” category. Follow Ale on instagram and you’ll find yourself constantly checking her stories for inspiration ranging from walking down the aisle, a night out on the town with friends, or perhaps a fun braid to rock at brunch. From breaking into her mother’s makeup cabinet at a young age, to being deemed the go to prom/homecoming makeup and hair stylist; Ale is a perfect example of “she was born to do beauty.”

“My name is Ale Mendez. I’m a hair stylist and makeup artist from Portland, Oregon, recently I have relocated to Arizona. I definitely have an eye for glam and l love making my clients feel beautiful. With six years experience I specialize in bridal updos, hair color, cuts and makeup. 

I pay attention to my clients lifestyle, fashion sense and needs in order to achieve the perfect color that compliments the client. From super fun braids, balayage and vivid colors to that perfect red lip and winged eyeliner. I took everything I learned in the PNW and brought it to the sunshine state! Not only that, but I’m learning the trends here which has definitely expanded everything I can do which I’ve enjoyed so much. I’m so happy I made this move to challenge myself and see what else is out there.”

What inspired you to pursue a career in the beauty industry?

How long have you been in the beauty industry?

Ale: I’ve been practicing for 6 years and been licensed for 4 years. I graduated from Beau Monde College in 2014. 

What was one of your biggest career challenges and how did you overcome it?

Ale: My biggest challenge was moving to a new city and building a new clientele. I knew what I was capable of and what I felt most comfortable doing so I advertised and marketed myself a lot. Social media is huge these days so I hash tagged my work and posted every single little thing I did. I contacted photographers for editorial work, messaged agencies in the area, direct messaged models, left my cards EVERYWHERE. A huge part is bringing in models to show your work and post what you can do! That definitely brings people in and helped me build a clientele.   

What keeps you motivated?

Ale:  The current trends. I love hair, makeup & fashion. I am always on social media and flipping through magazines! If I see something I like or a new technique I try to jump on it and it keeps me wanting to learn more .

What is your signature look or style that you are best known for?

Ale: Yes! I absolutely am in love with blondes and balayage. I have a certain way or foiling and a certain way of hand painting that I like doing. I also do a ton of bridal makeup, editorial makeup & glam makeup. I’m obsessed with anything that includes a bold lip, dramatic eyelashes, and a dewy complexion.

Describe Modern Love Salon & Med Spa (Where you can find Ale)?

Ale: It’s a one-stop shop. We offer all sorts of beauty services. Making us different from the other salons in town that offer a direct service. We like to keep it diverse! From haircuts & color to a new set of eyelash extensions. The team here is very hip and bubbly and we constantly have education classes which keeps us motivated. https://www.modernloveaz.com/

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Ale:I Remember answering this question in beauty school & now I’m doing exactly just that.I like a challenge and I hope to see that in 5 years. I’m always striving for more & more ! I want to travel more and go across the country and bring my shears with me. Making connections with people who inspire me the most and growing as a stylist . You never know what the future holds but setting goals is a good start towards seeing yourself in 5 years.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve received? What advice would you give to new stylists/beauty school students?

Ale: Never ever give up. If at that moment you’re struggling with something just remember it gets better and better the more your practice. 

My best advice is to never stop educating yourself. New techniques are happening all the time and your clients see that and ask for that! So don’t be afraid to take a class or ask your co workers if they know the latest technique to help you grow and learn as a stylist. Everyone in this Industry is in it together! Learning from your peers is key. You could teach them something they never knew about and vice versa.  

Do you have any industry icons? If so, who?

Ale: SO MANY !! oh my goodness. I’m obsessed with following these people on IG.

@confessionsofahairstylist

@patrickta

@domdomhair

@samvissermakup

@chrisappleton1

@makeupbymario

@philipwolfhair

 For more of Ale’s glam follow her on instagram @alee.xo