Curator of All Hair Types & Textures | Healthy Hair Specialist

When I first met Erin Maybin, I was fresh out of cosmetology school and had just started working on the salon floor at JCPenney. Erin was the teacher for the module trainings I had to complete, and during one of those sessions, she gave me a piece of feedback that has stuck with me ever since: “Cut it and move on.” At the time, it was about a haircut, but over the years, that statement became something much deeper. It became a mindset—a reminder not to dwell on mistakes or setbacks, but to learn, adjust, and keep moving forward. That phrase has carried me through every challenging moment in my career and life. Later, when we both worked briefly at the Clifton Park branch, Erin did my hair one day, and I’ll never forget how she made me feel—powerful, confident, and seen. From that moment, she became both my stylist and someone whose energy and artistry I deeply admired. Fast forward to the day she looked at me and simply asked, “What are you doing with yourself?” That question marked the beginning of her mentorship in my life. Erin didn’t just see where I was—she saw where I could go. She challenged me, encouraged me, and pushed me to believe in myself in ways I hadn’t before. Because of her guidance, I had the opportunity to assist at not just one, but several NYFW shows, an experience that helped elevate my skills and confidence to the next level. Today, I’m proud to say that I am a cosmetology instructor, living out the dreams I once only talked about. Whether Erin was directly putting me in opportunities or simply giving me the talk I needed to take a leap, she has been a driving force in my growth. Her impact is woven into how I teach, how I work, and how I uplift others coming into this industry—just as she did for me.

- Alonda Harris: Licensed Cosmetology Instructor with a passion for education, creativity, and empowerment through beauty.