Year of Graduation from LIBS – 1995
Instagram @nicolaforbesbeauty
Facebook Salone Epiphany

Q: Why did you choose a career in beauty?

Cosmetology wasn’t my first choice I had always wanted to be a fashion designer but the cost of school was out of my reach. One of my friends encouraged me to go to school and I can’t imagine doing anything else.

Q: Where do you work now and what is your specialty?

For the past 10 years, I have owned and worked at Salon Epiphany in West Hempstead. I wear several hats and cater to the Loc, curly hair client and also offer Hair Loss and Custom Wig services.

Q: What is the biggest benefit of your career choice?

The many opportunities as a licensed cosmetologist would be my greatest benefit. I’ve been able to travel internationally and share with other cosmetologists. Work in product research and development, trade shows, New York Fashion Week to name a few but the icing on top of the cake really is my day to day with my clients.

Q: What is your favorite memory from LIBS?

Oh boy, my favorite memory well I have two. Mrs. Cahill, one of my teachers took the time to make sure I mastered the Marcel iron and now I can curl hair as short as rice lol. Winning the competition and representing the school at the finals was also another great memory.

Q: Any advice for students, new graduates or people interested in a beauty career?

My advice for the students would be to stay the course, don’t give up it takes time and practice you’ll never know everything. Once you leave school find a teaching salon and perfect your skills. Don’t stop learning, invest time and money to be sure that you are in sync with this ever-changing beauty business.