Meet Nico Petrone | Hair Artist & Leader

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nico Petrone and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nico, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
What ever you are passionate about, you need to just start. There is no perfect timing, there is no perfect moment. I needed to trust that my art was enough for me to pull away from my career, and apply my leadership skillset to my self and become the hair artist I knew I could always be.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I started my career as a colorist 10 years ago, I was in the heart of New York City absorbing all the knowledge I could from the best in the industry. These artists were so amazing that I did not believe in myself for a long time, and I resorted to putting my business degree to work.

Through the years, fast forward to today – I mentored and developed so many professionals in the service industry and mastered my leadership skills. However, in the background, I was still yearning to go back to my calling.

I found that the industry changed, it evolved, and all that I learned – was out dated. It was a beautiful humbling experience, and I pushed myself to catch up and FAST. I attended classes, paired up with the best stylists even as an assistant or without pay, I was determined to be the best.

You will always be a student, you will always need to continue learning, but you need to start – because there is no perfect moment as I’ve said before.

I gave myself 90 days of pure intentional movement towards my goals. In the words of Mel Robbins, “that is not fake it until you make it” it’s intentional goal setting everyday.

My brand and my story are about the power of believing you can, because the reality is, you always can if you just start and are intentional with your movement. While I am passionate about my art when doing hair, to me it’s about how good it makes my guests feel when they are in my chair and how they are reminded that they matter and that they are enough when they walk out.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh this is great because I need to do this at the end of the month! First and foremost, get a great blowout at Spacagna Hair Design in Coral Gables.

Dinner at Tam Tam downtown for sure! I’m convinced it’s one of the best places in Miami without a doubt.

Karaoke at Sweet Caroline both in Brickell and Wynwood – Bon Jovi songs only lol!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I love that you’re asking this question because this is so important!

First and foremost, my parents – for always believing in me and pushing me when I needed it most.

In addition, an industry expert who I look up to, who inspires and motivates me to be the best version of myself. She’s the real deal – Liza Hernandez.

Lastly, the books that changed my life: Leaders eat last, The Let Them Theory, and Start with why.

Instagram: @hairbynicomiami

Image Credits
@under_shots