Today we’d like to introduce you to Paula Popas.
Paula, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve always had a passion for helping people feel their best. It is amazing what you can do for someone’s self-esteem by styling their hair! One experience I had as a younger stylist was with a woman who had overcome a health crisis. All the medication she had taken had left her hair in a ragged state. She was so distraught that by the time she reached my chair, her hair hadn’t been cut in over a year. Before I could begin my consultation she broke down in tears. After calming her down with plenty of hugs I convinced her to trust me. When she finally looked at herself after the haircut she couldn’t believe her hair looked amazing again! She has been my client now for over 10 years! This experience solidified that what I wanted to do was help people look their best so they could feel their best.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I’ve spent my whole career working in the Harvard square area. When I left the Aveda salon I started in, post hair school for a much smaller, newer salon I was scared if I was making the right decision! The transition had its challenges. Most clients came, some did not. The ones that did, afforded me the opportunity to re-root myself and build. I worked at A Quinn hair studio for 9 years before taking over ownership in December 2017 and renaming the space HairTheory Studio.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the HairTheory Studio story. Tell us more about the business.
HairTheory Studio is a boutique salon that specializes in curly hair! We are best known for our Ouidad cuts! And although our curly people rave about us, we provide all sorts of cuts and colors for all hair types. Our team has over 15 year’s experience in the industry and we are constantly brushing up on our education. I am most proud to be building a company where everyone that works there is an integral part of the team. We strive to create an environment where the client feels comfortable and relaxed. We are here to make your day!
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Maybe a combo of both?! For a few years, there were many failed attempts at opening a studio in various locations throughout Cambridge. Inevitably I feel the place I was already working in was waiting for the right time to present itself to me!
Contact Info:
- Address: HairTheory Studio
5 Arrow Street
Cambridge, Ma 02138 - Website: Hairtheorystudio.com
- Phone: 617-354-5354
- Email: hairtheorystudio@gmail.co.
- Instagram: @hairtheorystudio
- Facebook: Facebook.com/hairtheorystudio

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