“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style” - Maya Angelo

From an early age, Lauren expressed a passion for all things hair. Like most girls Lauren played extensively with dolls, however Lauren did not play as the other girls played- she styled them. She taught herself how to braid at 3 years old and insisted upon styling her own hair. Having extremely textured hair, Lauren would blow out and curl her hair better than the seasoned stylist her mother would take her to. In school she was the go to stylist for formal dances, prom and school pictures.

After high school, Lauren developed and interest in the world of modeling. At 19 she moved to NYC to purse becoming a runway model. Despite her growing success, Lauren was more so interested in the styling aspect. She had to learn how to do her own makeup and often had to do her own hair for shows and shoots. A designer once told her that she was a great model but saw that her passion and talent was in the styling. After modeling for 2 years she moved back to her hometown to pursue formal training and dedicated every moment to mastering her craft.

Lauren attended a local cosmetology school but felt she wasn't getting the diverse knowledge she was seeking. She then transferred to a nearby barbering school where she learned mens styling and barbering techniques as well as textured haircare, cutting and styling. After acquiring her cosmetology license, Lauren sought a job at the top salon in her area, Folio Salon. There she was mentored by master stylists Larry Pruit and Dion Hazel. Lauren's passions for styling grew, soaking up everything she could from her mentors. During her time at Folio, Lauren began working with photographers and boutiques in her area, styling clients for editorial, beauty and boudoir photo shoots.

Lauren Stephens currently resides in Chicago, Illinois. She is there continuing her journey of becoming a top stylist in the beauty and fashion industries. Ultimately being driven by her ability to make people, strangers, feel good about themselves.