Her Story
About Krisma
Krisma T. Pickering is a professional beauty industry leader, founder of Krismatic Salon, Eugene Beauty Expo, and SalonCon Events, with a career focused on salon leadership, education, strategic partnerships, and industry growth. She began her professional journey in the beauty industry in 2018 after earning an AAOT transfer degree in Psychology. Starting as a salon receptionist, Krisma quickly advanced into management, overseeing key operational areas including payroll, scheduling, and education programming. Her dedication to leadership and business development led her to open Krismatic Salon later that year.
Under Krisma’s leadership, Krismatic Salon grew into a 6,000-square-foot, two-story establishment with more than two dozen team members and has been recognized as a top salon and barbershop since 2021. Her experience building and managing a successful salon ecosystem has given her valuable insight into operations, team development, client experience, and sustainable business growth. She has continued to use this expertise to support beauty professionals and emerging leaders through mentorship, education, and industry collaboration.
In 2021, Krisma expanded her focus beyond salon ownership by creating and leading a local beauty education expo that featured renowned platform artists, educators, and industry brands for three years. Today, as the head of the school sector at BEAUTISTA, she supports beauty school growth by developing industry partnerships, representing the organization at trade shows, and connecting with schools through virtual engagement. Through her work, Krisma remains committed to strengthening the professional beauty ecosystem by empowering students, educators, salons, and brands with the knowledge, resources, and relationships needed for long-term success.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Krisma
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the commitment I made to my family, especially my oldest child, Oliver, who has been my greatest source of inspiration and motivation. When I unexpectedly became pregnant with him, I made a promise that he would have opportunities, support, and stability beyond the challenges I experienced growing up. That commitment has guided me for the past 13 years, inspiring me to work hard, persevere through obstacles, and continue building a meaningful career and life that provides the best possible future for him and his siblings.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the beauty industry is to never give up, develop resilience, and remain adaptable. This industry can be highly competitive and demanding, requiring determination, confidence, and a willingness to overcome challenges. Building a successful career requires thick skin, perseverance, and the ability to pivot when circumstances change. Do not let obstacles discourage you—stay committed to your goals, continue learning, and find new ways to grow and move forward.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in the beauty industry today is the structure of professional education and the lack of continued support available to new professionals after graduation. Many students enter the industry with strong technical skills but are not always equipped with the business knowledge, mentorship, and resources needed to build sustainable careers. Too often, graduates are expected to navigate the transition into the workforce on their own, creating a “sink or swim” environment. I believe there is a significant opportunity to strengthen the industry by expanding business education, mentorship, and ongoing support systems that help beauty professionals develop the skills needed to succeed long term.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are authenticity, honesty, transparency, and building meaningful relationships. I believe in being open to every conversation and every person, approaching others with understanding, patience, and a willingness to listen. I value direct and honest communication while also leading with empathy and giving people grace as they navigate challenges and growth. In my professional life, I prioritize relationship-building and believe that strong connections, trust, and mutual respect are the foundation for successful partnerships and lasting impact.
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