Daily Inspiration: Meet Tyler Earnest

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyler Earnest.

Hi Tyler, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
I’ve been in Orlando for a little over 2 years! I started my journey as a hairstylist first while I worked in a hospital in Akron, Ohio where I’ve lived my whole life. I was there for 4 years while I went to school my last year there. I completed and received my license, while still working and having a son. I initially wanted to be a barber but I didn’t believe the schools in Akron were a good fit. So while I waited for more options to open up I went to hair school at Regency Beauty Institute to be a more well-rounded stylist. A few months after receiving my stylist license I was told about a barber college and it piqued my interest. I showed up for a meeting and I was told I’d be given a full ride to complete barber school! I was filled with so much joy, I cried in the office! At the time I was dealing with homelessness and didn’t see much happiness in my life. It gave me so much hope! I was able to work as well as complete barber college (Beyond Expectations Barber College, BEBC) and I was able to move into my own apartment. I also taught classes to the students because of my chemical service background. I completed college within 6-9 months and it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I learned so much. My dream was to have my own studio or salon eventually. 5 years later I moved out of state to Orlando and was given the opportunity to work at a high-paced salon to help get me on my feet. A year later I had a suite in a salon and learned more about natural hair and dreadlocks. I’ve always wanted to be able to work shorter hours and make more money and I found out how. I’ve worked in many different salons, barbershops, and businesses. Corporate, franchise and small owned. I knew what I wanted for myself. After 6 years in the business, I secured my own LLC and a suite in a loft by myself! I worked countless days trying to give myself what I felt I deserved. I’ve done competitions in different cities just to make a name for myself. Being a female barber has its ups and downs but it just made me want to become the best version of myself and people could make their own analysis once they’ve seen my work. With that drive I’ve been able to make my dreams come true, and this is just the beginning!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Besides me being homeless during barber college, moving to Orlando was one of the toughest things I’ve ever done. The first year I moved here is when covid hit. Odds were stacked against me, no work, things were slowly being torn away from me once again. Especially being as though I was starting all over moving here. Finding clients and keeping my motivation was tough.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in haircutting and natural hair, all textures! I’m known mostly for my haircuts and dreadlock maintenance. I’m most proud of my creative sense. I’m a visual learner and an artist. When I was younger I did a lot of great artistic work and now I choose to do that work with hair! What I believe sets me apart from others is that I’m not the typical professional. I’m a personable person who gives people what they need as well as want for their hair. Being a woman in this industry hasn’t been the easiest but what I offer is irreplaceable! I always keep an outgoing fun-loving environment for all my clients!

What matters most to you? Why?
My son matters most to me because he’s been here with me through it all! He motivates me, literally! He always gives me motivational speeches and lets me know that I’m the best as a mother and a stylist! He’s always down to be a model for any show I do, any interview I have and it just lets me know that I’m doing something right! And it keeps my soul happy!

Pricing:

• Haircuts are $25 and up
• Dreadlock maintenance starts at $65
• Silk presses are $70
• Relaxers $80
• Color starts at $25