HMStyling Hollie Mae Schultz

Angelic is what walked through the doors of room 13 on Tuesday the 3rd of August. I was immediately mesmerized by her presence. I felt under dressed and awkward as she moved through the room so gracefully. Even her assistant, A.J, had something unique and compelling about her.


 Let me introduce you to fashion stylist Hollie Mae. Ms. Mae has a degree in public health and sociology with a minor in dancing. Having no educational background in fashion styling, Hollie found her true calling to fashion through an apprenticeship she had with her cousin. This person bridged the gap between Hollie and the fashion world. After years of assisting, Hollie knew that she needed to break out if she ever wanted to make it on her own. She gathered all the information she knew, made some calls, created new relationships, and started her business from scratch, HMStyling. Her first job came from Target Corporation, where she was able to work with designer Isaac Mizrahi. This one job, literally, launched her career into Minneapolis's fashion industry.

HMStyling is not the only styling business in the Metro area, but has an edge over the others. Hollie knows what it takes to be at the top of her game, and how to compete with her competitors. "Coming to work everyday with a smile and a great attitude is one of the best features a person can have."-Hollie Mae. Knowing this fact she applies this simple measure to every job she has.

Hollie leads one of those exciting lives, the ones most of us wish we had. Yes, she is extremely busy, yes, she barely has time for any sort of social life, but when building a brand that's what it takes to succeed. Her 'social life' consists of fashion shows and cocktail parties, where she most likely is promoting herself. With tall this sacrifice comes success. Eventually she will have a large enough company, where she will be able to take time off and be with friends, but for now, it's all about growth.

Hollie isn't alone in her brand building adventure. Her assistant A.J. was  kind enough to share her insight into the world they share together. A.J is a model turned assistant, hopeful to break into the production side of photo shoots and videos. She is literally Hollie's other half. Keeping her on track, sell aware, and grounded. With a type A personality, A.J finds herself pulled to the production side of styling. She wants to be in charge of all the behind the scenes happenings, from where the shoot will be, who will be there, to having double stick tape ready in case of emergency.

After having had the pleasure of meeting these two amazing women, I settled down in my chair. Their presence was engaging and friendly. I no longer felt like I didn't belong. If you have styling on your brain and can't help but get it out a few tips from the pro's will help:
1. Always be professional
2. Show up on time, never late, don't make people wait for you.
3. Be prepared, have all the equipment you think you'll need, even if it seems like too much.
4. Work hard, play harder.
5. Love what you do, it will truly become you.


Worth Mentioning....
As if Hollie doesn't have enough on her plate, she is also the co-founder of Project Healthy Smile, which provides dental education to children in East Asian countries. Check out their website to see how you can help!