From Beauty to Authenticity: My Journey from Salon Owner to Life Coach

After 20 years of working as a salon owner and stylist, I've learned that beauty runs far deeper than the visual transformations I create for my clients. Over the course of two decades, I’ve helped countless people leave my salon feeling confident and radiant, but I knew there was more to discover—more to give. My passion for helping others feel beautiful on the outside sparked a new desire to help them feel equally fulfilled on the inside. That’s when my journey shifted from just enhancing external appearances to empowering clients to embrace their true, authentic selves.

The Beauty Industry: My Foundation

I’ve had the privilege of working in the beauty industry for over 20 years, crafting hairstyles, perfecting makeup, and shaping the perfect look for every individual who sat in my chair. As a stylist, I always felt a special connection to my clients. It wasn’t just about the hair or makeup; it was about the conversations we had, the trust we built, and the transformations they experienced, both physically and emotionally.

There’s something magical about watching someone’s confidence grow as they see themselves in the mirror, perhaps in a way they never have before. However, as the years went on, I realized there was so much more beneath the surface—more that I wanted to tap into, and more that I wanted to give.

Going Beyond the Surface

As much as I loved creating beautiful hairstyles and makeup looks, I began to see that true transformation wasn’t only skin-deep. My clients often opened up about their struggles, self-doubts, and challenges in life. I could sense that while the outside transformation was powerful, the internal journey many people faced remained largely untouched. This sparked a profound curiosity in me to understand people at a deeper level.

That’s when I set out to acquire the necessary education and training to guide people from the inside out. I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and I became a certified life coach—equipping myself with the tools to help others not just look their best, but to feel their best in every aspect of life.

Life In Sessions: Merging Beauty with Personal Growth

Today, through my life coaching practice, Life In Sessions, I’ve brought my two passions together—beauty and personal development. My approach is holistic, offering clients not just external makeovers but deep, internal growth. I work with individuals on their personal identity, helping them cultivate a positive self-image and develop a true sense of self-authenticity. My background as a salon owner has given me an eye for external beauty, but my education and passion for psychology and coaching allow me to go beyond the surface, working on what’s most important: the beauty within.

As part of my one-on-one coaching sessions, I even offer complimentary hairstyling, makeup, or manicuring services—because I believe that when you feel good on the outside, it enhances the work we do on the inside. This integration of inner and outer transformation allows my clients to truly shine, both mentally and physically.

My Mission: To Empower Authenticity

My mission is simple: to help people embrace and celebrate who they truly are, inside and out. Whether you’re looking for guidance on building confidence, discovering your true identity, or creating lasting personal change, Life In Sessions is here to support you every step of the way.

The beauty industry gave me a foundation for understanding people’s external needs, but life coaching has allowed me to tap into their hearts, minds, and souls. Today, I’m proud to combine my 20 years of beauty industry experience with my life coaching expertise to help my clients live authentically, with purpose and confidence.

If you’re ready to embark on your own journey of self-discovery and authenticity, I’d love to be a part of it. Let’s create a life where you feel beautiful—both inside and out.

Warmly,Kandra-Zella Orcutt Founder, Life In Sessions @ SESSIONS, Life Coach & Hairstylist