We sat down with celebrity hairstylist Chris Gees for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into the life of one of Hollywood’s premier hairstylists.

M:  When did you start doing hair?

CG:  I started cutting hair in the 8^th grade, and it followed me through college.  I started doing women’s hair while in college at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, FL.

M:  Tell us how you got your first celebrity client.

CG:  My first celebrity client was Omarosa.  I met her backstage at the NAACP Image Awards, one month after I moved to Los Angeles, 7 years ago. 

At the time I was working at Mecca Hair Studio, and the owner asked if I was interested in working backstage during the show doing touch-ups for free.  And of course, I agreed.  That night, I met Omarosa and while we were talking she asked if she could come to the salon to get her hair done.  I said, “Sure, when do you want to come?”  She replied, “tomorrow.” 

We actually scheduled for the following Monday, all the while I was really wondering if she would actually come.  She had a 9AM appointment and sure enough she showed and I have been styling her hair ever since.

M:  What is it like to work in Hollywood, on set, productions and with celebrities?

CG:  Working in Hollywood can be very intense.  I had previously worked on photo-shoots before, but never on the level that it is done in Hollywood.  It’s really enjoyable for me though, because I am able to create my own energy in my workspace.  By that I mean, I always have my music playing, candles lit and it can really make the talent’s day.  The last thing you want is upset talent.

M:  What are your 5 must-haves when working with celebrity clients?

CG:  A good flat iron, blow dryer, great hair extensions that I can manipulate to fit whatever need I have, my music and a great styling product.  My favorite right now is Kenra Finishing Spray, its very versatile; it has a firm hold, but is still flexible.

M:  What advice would you give to emerging hairstylists that wish to work with celebrities?

CG:  My advice is to work on speed, but at the same time pay attention to detail.

M:  What is the proudest moment of your career thus far?

CG:  My proudest moment of my career, at this point, is the fact that I have actually ‘done it’.  I stepped out on faith and God has allowed me to see my dreams come to pass.  Along with that, I built a reputation and a name for myself to be one of the industry greats.

M:  What makes MADALI different from other brands of hair extensions that you have worked with?