01/12/2026
Get to know our first Skin and Soul Student, Lydia 🤍
“I grew up in a small town as the youngest of three girls, and from the very beginning, I learned how to go with the flow. Being the baby of the family made me easygoing, adaptable, and naturally drawn to connecting with people. I’ve always had a positive, happy personality—someone who tries to see the good, even on the days when my mind tends to overthink a little too much.
I’m fueled by coffee, happiest around dogs, and I’ve loved beauty for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I was always doing my nails, playing with my hair, and never skipping a skincare routine. Those little moments of self-care became my creative outlet and a source of comfort, long before I knew they would turn into my career.
While I bring a lot of light and positivity into what I do, I’m also human. I’m an overthinker and someone who can be hard on herself, but I’m learning to give myself grace and enjoy the journey instead of chasing perfection. Becoming an aunt has only deepened that part of me—teaching me patience, love, and the importance of showing up fully for the people you care about.
Today, I get to do what I love—create, connect, and provide a space where others feel seen, heard, and cared for. This isn’t just what I do; it’s who I am. And I’m so grateful to share that part of myself with the people who enter my space.”
Lydia’s Story 🤍
“Like so many others, I was unsure of exactly what I wanted to do after high school. After graduating, I decided to attend college for a couple of years to pursue a degree, but I quickly realized I was in the wrong field. Cosmetology was always something I had been drawn to growing up. I was the teammate who braided everyone’s hair before games, painted my nails in my free time, and had a genuine love for skincare.
Once I started the cosmetology program, I knew I was on the right path. During my time in school, I had the opportunity to take a microblading training course, which opened up an entirely new world of possibilities for me. I realized that doing hair wasn’t my only option. After graduating cosmetology school, I began finding my niche—the services that truly inspired and excited me. For me, that passion was brows and lashes.
I continued to invest in myself by taking various training courses in lash and brow services. After working briefly at a couple of salons, I eventually found my way to Urban Collective Salon. This is where everything truly started to click. I fell in love with the environment, the people, and the overall vibe. Feeling at home in my workplace allowed me to hone my skills and fully embrace what I was most passionate about.
Fast forward to today, I have been at Urban for four years and feel ready to step into the next chapter of my career. Skincare has always been something I’ve wanted to pursue. When I was given the opportunity to be trained by Tori, I knew it was something I couldn’t pass up. I want to learn from the best so I can be the best for my clients. I am incredibly excited for all the knowledge I am about to gain and to learn from someone who is truly passionate and exceptionally talented at what they do.”
Goals during and after training:
“Going into this training, I am incredibly excited to learn everything Tori has to offer. My goals during this experience are to remain fully present and focused so I can gain as much knowledge and understanding as possible about skin, facials, and products. I want to fully immerse myself in the hands-on training in order to provide my clients with the most relaxing, enjoyable, and effective experience possible.
I hope to leave this training feeling confident, knowledgeable, and supported. My goal is to step out on my own with the ability to offer the highest quality services to my clients. I have no doubt that I will continue to receive support from Tori long after the training is completed. Not only will I gain a mentor for life, but also a friend who shares the same passion for her clients and their skin as I do.”
Where to find Lydia / how to book:
“I’m located at Urban Collective Salon, working alongside an amazing group of women in our 20s who love what we do! Expect good vibes, great conversations, and lots of coffee when you visit us ☕️
To book with me, send a message on Instagram or Facebook , or book online using the link in my Instagram bio!”
