Young Americans: Timothy Willy

Timothy Willy

Not quite an expert but definitely experienced, Timothy Willy quickly made great career strides that would take some stylists years to complete. The Matrix artistic educator recently relocated from Chicago to Los Angeles to pursue his dreams as an editorial stylist, and to work behind the chair at Suburbia Salon & Spa in Studio City. “Balancing multiple jobs and shoots hasn’t been easy, but dedication to the craft is important for young stylists,” Willy says. “Now 25 and out of school for less than three years, I’ve learned that I’m not paying my dues—I’m earning opportunities. Now it’s time to set some new goals and go achieve my dreams.” ✂ —Kelley Donahue

Photography: Philip Campbell

 

AHA MOMENT

“When I grow up I want to be a beautician,” is what I’d often say as a young child. Because of society and bullying in school, I was ashamed to admit it. Still, I kept my cousin’s beauty school mannequin in my closet and would style it in the evenings. I was a closeted hairdresser! I soon learned that hairdressers have the power to touch and heal.

IN TRAINING

After attending Indiana’s Lafayette Beauty Academy, I earned the chance of a lifetime to travel the United States with Matrix for their Spread the Love initiative. I also honed my skills while assisting former Matrix Artistic Director Ammon Carver at shows and photo shoots.

STYLE PREFERENCES

The early 1920s when hair became huge and fabulous—it was an era filled with style and elegance.

BEAUTY MUST-HAVES

Give me some bobby pins and I’m set. It’s amazing that a minute piece of metal can create such great masterpieces.

MY MENTOR

I’ve been very blessed to have many mentors through Matrix, including Carver, and through the beauty industry, but this one has to go out to my mom!

BIGGEST CHALLENGE

Time management! This career involves balancing many things all the time—from educating and booking events to networking, planning photo shoots and everything else.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I EVER GOT

Goals are just the stepping stones to dreams.

GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT

I’ve experienced so many proud moments thus far in my career and my life. It’s important to keep focused, work hard and be proud of your work.

NEXT STEP

I hope to carve out a career as a freelancer for agencies and photographers in Los Angeles. I have several shoots ready to be published and can’t wait to see what the near future has in store!