Today we’d like to introduce you to Lena Fongeallaz.
Lena, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey into the hair industry started long before I ever picked up a pair of shears. My mother had been a hairstylist my entire life, so I grew up in salons and always knew I wanted to be behind the chair. After graduating high school in 2007, I took about two weeks off before diving straight into my career and beginning my journey in the industry.
I’ve always loved every aspect of the hair world, but I’ve been especially drawn to vivid color and the creative freedom it offers. I love being able to transform someone’s vision into something that feels like wearable art. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work in education for several product lines, participate in hair and fashion shows, and continually expand my skills and creative perspective.
Today, my career has evolved in some really exciting ways, and I’ve found myself taking my passion for creativity beyond the salon and onto movie sets, where I work as an SFX artist and Art Director. It’s been an incredible journey, and I love that this industry has given me so many different avenues to explore my creativity and continue growing as an artist.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, even though this career has always been a natural passion for me. I started in 2008 during the economic recession, so building a clientele was a challenge from the very beginning. Throughout my career, I’ve also had to navigate the ups and downs of joining new salons, adapting to different teams, and keeping up with an industry that’s constantly evolving.
The biggest change has been the rise of social media and content creation, which has become an important part of being a hairstylist today. While it can be challenging, I’ve always embraced the opportunity to learn and grow. Looking back, every obstacle has helped me become more adaptable, and I’m grateful to now be part of the best team I’ve ever worked with.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Behind the chair, I specialize in alternative styles, vivid color, and long-lasting blowouts. I love helping my clients express themselves through their hair and creating looks that are both unique and wearable.
More recently, my career has taken an exciting turn into the film industry, where I’ve been able to apply my creativity in entirely new ways. I’ve worked on several local film projects creating monsters and special effects makeup, fabricating props, designing wardrobes, and providing hair and makeup for cast members.
One of the things I’m most proud of is being nominated for “Best Costumes” at the 2026 Jacksonville’s LOL Film Festival for one of the most involved projects I’ve worked on. I think what sets me apart is my willingness to constantly learn and explore new creative outlets. Whether I’m behind the chair or on a movie set, I love bringing ideas to life and creating something memorable.
How do you define success?
I define success as fulfillment and the experiences you collect along the way. For me, success isn’t measured by money, luxury, or material things, but rather it’s about building a career that excites me, continually growing, and having the opportunity to be part of meaningful and creative experiences. If I’m doing work I love and making a positive impact, I consider that a successful life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lovelylengthsbylena.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lena.fongeallaz.hair/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/couple.of.creeps/
