Alumni of the Month: Kayla Pardue

What was once a dream for hair stylist Kayla Pardue has now become a reality. “I can literally see the Hollywood sign outside of my window at work. I don’t think I’ll ever stop pinching myself.”  

Kayla was born and raised in New Boston, TX and graduated from New Boston High School in 2012. “I can remember when I was a little girl, I loved combing my dad’s hair for him and combing all my barbie dolls hair. When I was in high school, I did all my friend’s hair for prom and at our volleyball games the team always wanted me to tie ribbons in their hair.” 

After graduating from high school, Kayla reflected on what she was truly passionate about. “I knew I wanted to be an artist. I realized hair was a way for me to pursue artistry and hair became my canvas.”  

After researching cosmetology programs, Kayla chose Texarkana College. “TC was close, affordable, and highly recommended to me,” Kayla said. “I worked full time as a server while attending TC and even though I only got about 4 hours of sleep a night, it was all worth it.” 

Kayla graduated with a Cosmetology License in 2014 from TC. Following graduation, she was hired as a full-time stylist at Danny Rateliff’s Hair Salon. “My mentor, Danny Rateliff, molded me as a stylist and taught me everything I now know. He knew I could be so much bigger than who I thought I could be.”  

Kayla’s partner of 10 years, Wes, is her biggest supporter and provider. Through Kayla’s impressive resume and Wes’ networking connections, in January 2022 Kayla was offered her dream job by a salon in Hollywood, California. “Coming here was a huge leap of faith. I had never left my home before until this moment.” 

Kayla is the first person in her family to graduate from college and credits her success to her family. “Success runs through my blood. My dad owns the Little Country Greenhouse in New Boston. I grew up seeing how hard he worked every single day. Even when I would fail, he encouraged me to pick myself back up again. He motivated me daily to follow my dreams.” 

Kayla currently works at Planet Salon in West Hollywood, California. When asked what she would tell her younger self, Kayla said, “Be patient and kind to yourself. Everything will happen when it is supposed to and how it is supposed to. No matter what anyone says, believe in yourself. Anything is possible!” 

Stay up to date with Kayla’s journey by following her on Instagram at @hairbykaylapardue.