Understanding Our Stylist Levels at Swamp Mermaid Beauty Project

“What’s the difference between your stylist levels?”

Totally fair question. When you look at our booking page, you’ll see titles like Emerging Stylist, Level 1, Level 2, etc.
The short answer: all of our stylists are incredibly talented.
The levels simply reflect their experience, education hours behind the chair, and professional growth within the salon.

But at Swamp Mermaid, our level system represents more than just technical skills. It reflects our commitment to education, growth, mentorship, and our salon mission:
to enhance natural beauty while making every guest feel seen, cared for, and listened to.

Let’s break down exactly what each level means — so you know who to book with based on your goals, your hair needs, and your budget.

Emerging Stylist

Licensed Cosmetologist + Graduated Apprentice + On-Floor Stylist

Our Emerging Stylists are the newest stylists on the floor — but do not confuse new with inexperienced.

To reach this level, these stylists have:

• Graduated from cosmetology school

• Completed the Swamp Mermaid Apprenticeship Program — which is not your average salon training

• Logged months of hands-on models, one-on-one education, testing, and approvals with our educators

Our apprenticeship program is intensive. We teach haircutting, blonding, extensions, corrective color, client experience, and we emphasize integrity, transparency, and communication — our core values.

Emerging Stylists take guests at a lower price point, making them perfect if you’re wanting a fresh color or haircut without the higher price tag. Their work is supported by our educator. Not “monitored,” but supported. If they need guidance, they have a top stylist right there to help create formulas or assist with a transformation.

You get the benefit of:

• A passionate stylist who is genuinely excited to grow with you

• A budget-friendlier price point

• The support of the entire team behind the scenes

After Emerging Stylist: Levels 1, 2, & 3

Once stylists hit certain experience, education, and performance goals, they move into Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Each level represents growth — more time behind the chair, more confidence, and more mastery.

The level won’t change your experience as a guest — it simply reflects the stylist’s experience and demand.

And at the very top of our level system is our owner and Master Stylist, Jody Rivera, with 28+ years behind the chair and a passion for education and guest experience that is unmatched.

How to choose the right level

Ask yourself three questions:

1. What’s your budget?
Emerging Stylists offer a lower price point. Higher levels reflect experience and demand.

2. How complex is your service?
Big transformations, major blonding, and corrective color may be better suited to a more experienced stylist.

3. Do you enjoy growing with someone?
If you love the idea of supporting someone early in their career, Emerging is your person.

At Swamp Mermaid, no matter who you choose, you’re getting:

• Aveda-exclusive salon experience

• Customized consultations

• Stylists trained under our in-house education

• A team that works together — because we don’t gatekeep anything

We don’t just do hair.
We build confidence, connection, and community.

Ready to book your stylist?
Tap the booking link or text us at 512.520.4374 we’ll help match you with the best fit.