We recently connected with Mari Castro Sydney Steer and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Mari Castro , thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
At Stranded Studios, a strong work ethic is at the core of everything we do. It’s what drives us to consistently deliver top-quality results, go above and beyond for our clients, and maintain the high standards we’ve set for ourselves. Our commitment to hard work shows in every little detail inside our business. This dedication is what sets us apart, and it’s the foundation of the trust and loyalty we build with every single one of our guests.
While Sydney and Mari both share a strong work ethic, the journeys they took to build that foundation are unique.
Sydney’s work ethic has always been fueled by her inner perfectionist, consistently pushing her to go the extra mile. During her high school years, she worked in the restaurant industry, where she mastered the nuances of customer service and learned how to perform well under pressure. These learning experiences shaped her approach today, ensuring that every detail is considered and every client receives a top-tier experience.
Mari’s work ethic was shaped by growing up in a family of immigrants. She saw firsthand the dedication and hard work her family put into everything they did, which taught her that with enough perseverance, anything is possible. That mindset has had a lasting impact on how she approaches her work and defines success.


Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
We are an exclusively hair extension salon. Our expertise lies in crafting customized hair extension installations that compliment your natural hair without compromising it’s health. The transformations we create for our clients bring us the most joy. Recently, we helped a friend who had lost all of her hair to cancer, and being able to give her hair back and help her feel like herself again is why we do what we do. These moments remind us of the power of our work and make it all worth it.
We recently created our very own hair extension brush. We utilized stainless steel bristles for their antibacterial properties and scalp stimulation. Our hair brush is suitable for all hair types (extensions or not) and effortlessly untangles the hair while never catching on hair extension attachments.
We are excited to announce that our Stranded Brush will be available for purchase online this November of 2024.


There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Determination, accountability, and honesty have been key to Sydney and Mari’s business success. Their determination has kept them focused, pushing through setbacks without losing sight of their goals. Accountability is the backbone of their journey, driving them to continuously improve and take action to grow their business. Their commitment to honesty fosters trust and authenticity in their relationships, allowing them to build a loyal client base that values transparency and genuine connection. These qualities have shaped the foundation of their entrepreneurial journey.
Success is a direct result of the effort you put in. For those starting out, stay focused on your goals, work consistently, and remain true to your values. Hard work builds your future, and honesty creates trust with your clients. The more you put in, the more you’ll see your business grow.


What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
Over the past 12 months, Mari’s biggest growth in the past year has been stepping out of her comfort zone. As an introvert, she’s worked hard to put herself out there more and continues to improve in this area, seeing the impact on both her personal and professional life.
Over the past 12 months, Sydney’s biggest area of growth and improvement has been her ability to embrace risk and adapt to new challenges. Quitting her stable job to launch our business was a significant leap of faith, but it has already paid off tremendously, as evidenced by our already successful business and thriving mental health. She’s learned to trust her instincts and embrace the learning process.
This journey has transformed our perspective on work and success, and we now feel empowered to pursue our passions with renewed vigor.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.strandedstudioshair.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strandedstudioshair?igsh=MTNoYW43aHd3aTI4dA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strandedstudioshair
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@strandedstudioshair?si=uAb1bCAcOvqagupl
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/CGLKdkvqM0
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@strandedstudioshair?_t=8qbBkA5xp4l&_r=1


Image Credits
Kellina Templeton
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
