Written by Jenna-Medlin Roark
Finding someone, I trust with my hair has always been a struggle of mine. I have spent most of my life with undyed, untouched, virgin hair, scared to try new things or allow someone to color my hair. Finding a stylist that you can trust can be intimidating. You desire to have someone who understands you, knows your story, your comfort level, hair goals, and most importantly, all of your drama.
As I nervously walked into Drop Dead Hair Studio, Tessa greeted me warmly, whom I had consulted with about lightening my hair. I’d seen her incredible work on Instagram, heard from others that her coloring skills were unmatched, and I was excited to experience her talent for myself.
Riddled with bright blonde strands of what was once pink hair from December, Tessa got to work foiling my thick brown hair. For hours she worked with me to lighten, shampoo, and style my hair.
As she pulled the foils out and ran the toner through, she listened as my sister and I bantered back and forth, giggling and making great conversation with us.
Born and raised in the hot Phoenix heat, Tessa Scissorhands is an up-and-coming licensed hairstylist right here in the valley.
Since graduating with her cosmetology license during the pandemic right in the middle of a parking lot, Tessa has been renting a chair at Drop Dead Hair Studio in Mesa, Arizona, and building her clientele.
Growing up going to bridal shows with her parents, who owned a jewelry store, Tessa would often get the opportunity to do bridal hair and makeup regularly. She would spend many of her days inviting her friends over to do their hair and makeup and then taking pictures of her work.
Tessa has always had a passion for helping and making other people feel better. During her childhood years, she wanted to be a baker, learned American Sign Language, and went to school for psychology.
I have always wanted to help people in some way. Being able to help or assist someone in any way fills my cup.
– Tessa Scissorhands
A typical day as a stylist includes preparing for her clients, ensuring she has enough color or lightener, and cleaning after she is done with her appointments. Spending time with her clients is something that is of great importance to her. When asked about what she loves most about her job, Tessa responded with, “The connection I make with the human in my chair.”
I spent at minimum an hour or two with each client and learn their story. My clients share tears and joy with me. I see them through major life events, a promotion, a marriage, the loss of a loved one. My chair is a safe place, and I love hearing the stories.
– Tessa Scissorhands
Tessa takes inspiration from the latest fashion and trends. To be versatile, she is always trying new products and techniques to offer the best experience to her clients. Inspired by the hair from the roaring 20s, 60s, and 70s, Tessa would describe her own style as wild. She is working to make her mark in the beauty industry. With hopes of educating within the cosmetology industry one day, she strives to learn more and better her craft. She is passionate about educating her clients about their hair.
I’m an open book, I love learning, I’m always trying something new so I can recommend things to them. My chair is an inclusive place, and everyone is welcome and invited. I will always be willing to educate and recommend products for their lifestyle and their needs.
– Tessa Scissorhands
I look forward to every day and every client as a defining moment. I learn something new with every session, and I do something different with every client. No two heads of hair are the same, no two clients are the same.” -Tessa Scissorhands.
To learn more about Tessa Scissorhands and her work, you can check her out on Instagram @tessascissorhands and Twitter @tessdoeshair.
You can also book an appointment with Tessa on her website www.tessascissorhands.com. You can also follow Drop Dead Hair Studio on Instagram @dropdeadhairstudio for more information and to learn more about their grand opening on August 13th, 2021.
