Meet Kiana Pickett

We recently connected with Kiana Pickett and have shared our conversation below.

Kiana , thank you so much for making time for us. We’ve always admired your ability to take risks and so maybe we can kick things off with a discussion around how you developed your ability to take and bear risk?

I want to have successful business and with that involves risk taking!
Taking risks has been one of the biggest driving forces behind my growth—both personally and professionally. I’ve learned that if you never take risks, you never truly learn. Every major step I’ve taken in my career came with uncertainty, but I’ve learned to trust my judgment and lean into that feeling of “what if.” Growth doesn’t come from comfort—it comes from pushing past fear and betting on yourself.

Over time, I’ve developed what I call “smart risk-taking.” That means I weigh the reward against the potential loss, making sure I can financially and mentally back up my choices. I don’t take blind leaps; I take calculated ones. My decision-making process is rooted in both logic and intuition. Sometimes, even when I wasn’t sure how things would turn out, I trusted my gut and pushed forward. Those moments often led to my biggest breakthroughs.

For me, risk is less about chance and more about courage—having the confidence to move forward even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed. Every risk I’ve taken has taught me something valuable, whether it worked out as planned or not. The key is learning, adapting, and continuing to believe that every step, even the uncertain ones, moves you closer to where you’re meant to be.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

There are three things I knew about myself at a young age: I was going to be a cosmetologist and own my own salon, I wanted to travel the world, and I didn’t want to have any children.
I’ve managed to stay true to all three. Today, I’m a multicultural cosmetologist and salon owner based in Reno, Nevada. My career has allowed me to blend artistry, entrepreneurship, and creativity in ways I once only dreamed of.

I specialize in a wide range of beauty services—hair, makeup, braiding, spray tanning, waxing, and creative styling for film, television, fashion, print, and editorial work. I’m known locally for my intricate festival braids and my ability to create looks that feel both elevated and expressive. Beyond traditional beauty work, I love crafting elaborate headpieces and exploring artistic concepts that push creative boundaries.

My long-term goal is to become a celebrity stylist and travel internationally, working behind the scenes at fashion weeks and major productions. Right now, I’m taking one of the biggest leaps of my career by launching my own makeup brand—something that’s both exciting and a little scary. It’s the highest-risk project I’ve ever taken on, but I believe in trusting my instincts and investing in my vision. I’m also actively seeking agency representation in Los Angeles or Las Vegas to help expand my reach into larger markets.

Staying true to who I am—following my passions, embracing creative challenges, and living life on my own terms—has shaped not only my career but also my confidence. Every risk I’ve taken has brought me closer to the life I once imagined, and I’m just getting started.

Everything about this career that I have paved is exciting! But what I truly live for is when my clients leave smiling. I live for the after texts that state, “ I love my hair, I’ve gotten so many compliments!” It’s also a bonus when the husbands love it! Feeling great and constant compliments is such a great mood booster.
From a young age, I knew I didn’t want to have children — not because I didn’t value family, but because I understood the kind of life I wanted to build. My dreams were big, my goals were ambitious, and I realized early on that motherhood could change the trajectory of those plans. I wanted the freedom to take risks, to travel, to grow a business from the ground up, and to pour my full energy into becoming successful. For me, choosing not to have kids wasn’t a rejection of tradition — it was a conscious decision to protect the space I needed to create the life I envisioned
That decision set the tone for how I approach everything in life — with intention, courage, and an understanding that every dream comes with its own set of risks. Building a business, stepping into new industries, or carving out space in a competitive field all require a willingness to bet on yourself. I’ve learned that real growth happens when you’re willing to sacrifice comfort for purpose. Every risk I’ve taken — from opening my own salon to working in film, fashion, and beauty — has been a reminder that the life I chose comes with challenges, but it’s also deeply rewarding because it’s fully mine.

Looking back, every risk I’ve taken has led me exactly where I was meant to be. The long nights, the sacrifices, and the moments of uncertainty were all part of building something meaningful. I’ve traveled, created, and connected with people all over the world through my work — experiences I might not have had if I’d chosen a different path. Success, to me, isn’t just about recognition or financial gain; it’s about freedom — the ability to design my own life, pursue my passions, and continue evolving without limits.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

1. Professional Knowledge and Continuous Learning:
Attending cosmetology school was just the beginning of my education. It gave me the technical foundation to master my craft, but the real knowledge came from experience — working with diverse clients, learning new trends, and adapting to different industries like film, fashion, and editorial work. True success in beauty comes from a commitment to keep learning, evolving, and perfecting your skills.
2. Drive and Determination
Drive is one of the most powerful skills any entrepreneur can have. It’s what keeps you going when the path gets difficult and the results aren’t immediate. I’ve always believed that consistency beats talent when talent stops trying. My determination has been my anchor — it’s what allows me to keep showing up, taking risks, and chasing new levels of success.
Every great risk still requires wisdom. I’ve learned to balance my ambition with practicality — making choices that align with both my goals and my long-term vision. Applying yourself fully, staying focused, and being intentional about your next move creates alignment between your effort and your outcome. Discipline turns dreams into plans, and plans into results.

Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?

My Mentors (now turned friendtor)
Jenny O.
Megan Gilman
And my mom Linda who is my biggest fan. I do this for her!

Friendtor is a made up word I created and means: a mentor who also has become your friend.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kiananicolebeauty.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/kianasbeautysalon

Image Credits

Rachael Rose Photography image credit for headshot

Felicia Carter Flower Headpiece image credit

Melony Cox Fruit Basket image credit
Sammy Aucella beaded braid photo image credit