Introducing Our Apprenticeship Program: Building the Next Generation of Stylists
After eight years of owning Swamp Mermaid Beauty Project, we’ve learned that the beauty industry thrives when education and creativity intersect. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our apprenticeship program—a hands-on training experience designed to nurture emerging talent and ensure every stylist in our salon embodies the high standards we’ve become known for.
Why We Started an Apprenticeship Program
When we opened Swamp Mermaid in 2016, we dreamed of creating more than just a salon—we wanted to build a space where artistry, skill, and passion could flourish. Over the years, we’ve worked hard to cultivate a strong culture of creativity, luxury, and compassion. But as our team grew, we noticed something: while cosmetology school provides a solid foundation, new graduates often need additional guidance to develop the confidence and technical expertise to thrive behind the chair.
We decided it was time to step in. Our apprenticeship program is designed to bridge the gap between school and salon success, giving new stylists the tools they need to grow into skilled, confident professionals.
What Makes Our Program Unique
Our apprenticeship program isn’t just about teaching technique—it’s about immersing our apprentices in the Swamp Mermaid culture and showing them what it means to create unforgettable client experiences. Here’s what sets our program apart:
1. Hands-On Training
Apprentices work side-by-side with our experienced stylists, learning everything from advanced hair color techniques like balayage and corrective color to the art of crafting the perfect shag or mullet. This isn’t a classroom; it’s real-world experience, supported by mentorship and guidance at every step.
2. Specialized Curriculum
We’ve developed a detailed curriculum tailored to our salon’s unique approach to hair artistry. Rebekah, our Director of Education, leads training in hair color services, including highlights, balayage, bleach-and-tone, and corrective work. Meanwhile, Jordan focuses on haircutting, teaching precision techniques for everything from classic styles to edgy, modern cuts.
This structured, week-by-week approach ensures apprentices build their skills methodically while still having room to explore their creativity.
3. The Swamp Mermaid Way
Our core values—integrity, compassion, transparency, and acceptance—are at the heart of everything we do, and our apprenticeship program is no exception. We teach our apprentices not just how to cut and color hair, but how to provide the kind of service that keeps clients coming back. From attention to detail to going above and beyond for every guest, they’ll learn what it means to work the Swamp Mermaid Way.
4. Emerging Stylist Pricing
While in the program, our apprentices offer services at emerging stylist pricing, giving clients the opportunity to experience high-quality services at a more accessible price point. It’s a win-win: clients get amazing hair, and apprentices get invaluable hands-on experience working with real people.
Why This Matters to Us
Launching this apprenticeship program is deeply personal. It’s a reflection of our commitment to education, growth, and giving back to the industry that has given us so much. By hiring graduates directly out of cosmetology school and guiding them through our program, we’re investing in the future—not just of Swamp Mermaid, but of the beauty community as a whole.
We’re proud to provide a space where new stylists can thrive, learn, and grow into the best versions of themselves. Watching our apprentices gain confidence, hone their skills, and eventually build their own loyal clientele is one of the most rewarding experiences we could ask for.
Looking Ahead
Our apprentices aren’t just learning from us—we’re learning from them, too. Their fresh perspectives, creativity, and energy inspire us every day and remind us why we fell in love with this industry in the first place.
If you’re a recent cosmetology graduate looking to take your skills to the next level, we’d love to hear from you. And if you’re a client looking to support the next generation of hairstylists, book an appointment with one of our apprentices today—you’ll not only get an amazing service but also be part of their journey.
Here’s to building the future, one cut, color, and client at a time.
Xoxo, Swamp Mermaid
