The 3 Worst Places I've Ever Styled Hair (And What I Learned From Them)

As a hairstylist, I’ve had the privilege (and occasional challenge) of working in some pretty unconventional locations. While I’m always ready to make the best of any situation, there have been a few places that tested my patience—and creativity—more than I’d care to admit. Here are the top 3 worst places I’ve ever styled hair, and what I learned from each experience.

1. **Top of the Staircase: Not Exactly a “Comfortable Chair”**

When you're just starting out in the wedding hair business, you learn quickly that you *can’t* always have a perfect setup. Case in point: the top of a staircase. 

My client, in her infinite wisdom, decided the top of the stairs was the *ideal* place for me to work. Why? Because she was near her fiancé downstairs, and, more importantly, we could reach the plug ins. I’ll give her points for practicality, but comfort? Not so much. The stairs were hard and narrow, making it tough to move around. I spent most of the time contorting myself to avoid tripping over the banister, and every attempt at offering a cushion was politely declined. 

This was my first year in the wedding business, and I wasn’t exactly confident enough to speak up about the importance of proper space and seating. But now? I require a chair and a small table in my contract, and I’m never looking back. Lesson learned: no matter where you work, make sure your setup is ergonomic and that you and your client are comfortable—because the wedding day is long enough without unnecessary aches and pains.

2. **Between the Bed and the Wall: Hotel Room Shenanigans**

Ah, hotel suites. They sound glamorous, right? But nothing says “stressful day in the making” quite like a cramped hotel room packed with a bridal party, makeup artists, and hairstylists all trying to make magic happen. 

This particular hotel suite had *zero* space for multiple artists working at the same time. The room was cozy (read: tiny), and the only available plug in was next to the bed by the window. I set up, but the only available “chair” for my clients was—wait for it—the bed. As you can imagine, working with someone lying down on a bed isn’t exactly a dream scenario 😂. I spent most of the time fearing that I’d accidentally knock over a hotel phone or, worse yet, burn a hole in the bedding with my curling iron.

In hindsight, this taught me the importance of proper space planning. Now, I ask for clear details about room size and layout, as well as how many people will be working in the space. And if I can’t get a decent workstation? I’ll speak up—politely but firmly.

3. **The Historic Building without Updated Electrical: A Power Struggle**

I’ve worked in some beautiful historic buildings—so charming, so full of character, but let me tell you, they do not always come with modern amenities. 

On this particular occasion, I showed up excited to do hair for the bride and her bridesmaids. The catch? There was only *one* working power outlet in the entire bridal suite. The room had been recently renovated, but the electrical system? Not so much. We spent the first 30 minutes searching for a plug adapter that would allow us to get some power, only to keep tripping the breaker every time two of us tried to work off the same extension cord.

At that moment, I learned a very important lesson: always pack a plug-in adapter in your kit (and *maybe* a backup extension cord too). The day also taught me to build in extra time for these unforeseen issues, because let’s be honest—things like this never happen at a “convenient” time. You’ve got to be ready for anything.

The Power of Preparation

As a hairstylist, every job presents its own unique challenges—whether it’s a cramped hotel suite, a historic building with no electrical outlets, or the ever-popular “staircase styling.” While these situations were less-than-ideal, they taught me invaluable lessons about the importance of preparation, communication, and *advocating for myself*—all things that have made me a better, more confident stylist today.

So, to all the brides, bridesmaids, and fellow stylists out there: no matter where you’re getting ready, remember that it’s worth the effort to set yourself up for success. And if you're ever on a staircase or wedged between a bed and a wall, don’t forget to pack a cushion—and a sense of humor.

While I’m not typically one to harp on the bad, I just HAD to get these off of my chest!

Next time we will focus on my FAVORITE locations I’ve ever had the honor of styling hair at, you’ll definitely want to check those out and add them to your list! Chat soon! XO- B💋