Today we’d like to introduce you to Whitney VerMeer
Whitney, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Honestly, it never occurred to me that I would go into hair. My original plan was to study business and marketing- I even started down that path in school. But it was my grandmother who suggested I consider cosmetology. At first, I wasn’t sure, but once I stepped into hair school, something clicked. I immersed myself in every aspect of the craft- color, esthetics, nails, perms, cutting- you name it. That experience taught me to stay open and curious, and it’s a mindset that’s guided me ever since.
After graduating, I took that same openness into the industry. I’ve worn so many hats over the years- stylist, barber, educator, creative director, product developer and each role has taught me something new. From learning traditional barbering techniques to creating tools specifically designed for artists, I’ve always looked for ways to push boundaries and challenge what’s possible. It’s been a journey of discovery, growth, and constantly evolving my craft.
Looking back, I realize that my career has been less about following a straight path and more about embracing every opportunity with curiosity and adaptability. It’s this flexibility that’s allowed me to build a career that feels authentic to who I am.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s definitely not been a smooth road, but I’ve come to appreciate the bumps and twists for the lessons they’ve taught me. Early in my career, I faced a lot of uncertainty trying to figure out where I fit within the industry and what kind of artist I wanted to be. I’ve also navigated challenges tied to being neurodivergent, which means approaching my work and problem-solving in unique ways. And, of course, there’s the reality of being a queer woman/non-binary individual in spaces that weren’t always designed with people like me in mind, like barbering or working with large corporations.
One of the biggest challenges came during the pandemic. Like so many others, I had to pivot my business completely during lockdown, finding new ways to stay connected to my craft and my clients. At the same time, I was grappling with the loss of three friends and colleagues who passed during that period, which was devastating on both a personal and professional level. It was a time of immense reflection and change.
Each struggle has taught me resilience and resourcefulness. Whether it was learning to advocate for myself as an artist while working in corporate spaces or navigating the weight of loss while trying to adapt to a new reality, I’ve found that the hardest moments often lead to the most growth. The road hasn’t been smooth, but I wouldn’t trade the journey. It’s shaped the artist and person I am today.
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?
At its core, my goal in my work is always geared towards innovation and encouraging new/different perspectives and helping others see its potential as a medium for storytelling and self-expression. I’ve had the opportunity to wear many hats throughout my career- artist, platform artist, product developer, creative director- and each role has given me a new perspective on what’s possible in this industry.
One of the projects I’m most proud of is developing my scissor line with Mizutani Scissors, the first-ever scissors ergonomically designed for biological female/smaller hands. It was a project born out of necessity and observation- tools that were long overdue for an update and being able to address that need in such a meaningful way has been incredibly rewarding. That project represents a lot of what drives me: finding ways to merge functionality with design, to create tools that truly serve the artist.
Beyond product development, I’ve been fortunate to work on stages around the world, develop innovative curriculums that challenge traditional approaches, and collaborate with global brands to shape the future of the industry. What drives my work is probably my curiosity and that I approach hair as more than just a technical craft- it’s an art form. Every cut, every design, every tool I create starts with the question: “How can this inspire? How can this make an impact?”
What I’m most proud of, though, isn’t just the work itself but the ability to stay true to who I am throughout this journey. My path has always been about pushing boundaries, breaking molds, and creating a space where individuality and creativity are celebrated.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My biggest piece of advice is to stay curious and open to every opportunity that comes your way. When you’re just starting out, it’s easy to feel like you need to have everything figured out. Your niche, your style, your “brand”- but the truth is, growth comes from exploring and trying things that might feel a little outside your comfort zone. Some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned came from saying “yes” to opportunities I wasn’t entirely sure about at the time.
I also think it’s important to focus on the process rather than rushing to achieve some big, end goal. It’s easy to look at people you admire and think they just arrived at success, but the reality is that every journey is filled with moments of uncertainty, mistakes, and starting over. Embrace those moments. They’re where you’ll grow the most.
One thing I wish I knew when I was starting out is the importance of building relationships and surrounding yourself with people who inspire and challenge you. Your network can be such a powerful resource, not just for your career but for your personal growth. Don’t be afraid to seek out mentors, ask questions, and connect with others in the industry.
Lastly, don’t let fear of failure hold you back. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you need to be perfect or have it all together, but perfection isn’t where the magic happens. The best work often comes from experimenting, taking risks, and being unafraid to fail. Every mistake is just a step toward finding your voice and your unique path.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.whitneyvermeer.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitneyvermeer
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whitney.vermeer
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitneyvermeer
