Meet Your Director

Vivian Grider: The Visionary Behind Blueprint Hair Academy

At the heart of Blueprint Hair Academy is me, Vivian Grider, a trailblazer in the beauty industry with over 30 years of experience as a licensed cosmetologist, educator, entrepreneur, and salon owner. I made history as the first African American woman to open an individualized beauty academy in Huntsville, Alabama, setting myself and Blueprint Hair Academy apart from all other schools in the region. My unwavering commitment to diversity, innovation, and excellence has redefined beauty education, ensuring that every aspiring professional finds a program tailored to their unique skills and passion.

A Passion for Beauty Since Childhood

My love for cosmetology began at the young age of 12, when I started training at my godmother’s salon. Watching skilled stylists transform clients’ hair ignited a deep passion in me, and I quickly became dedicated to mastering the art and design of hair. Under my godmother’s guidance, I learned the foundational techniques that would later shape me into the industry expert I am today.After completing high school, I pursued my passion professionally, enrolling in Flair Beauty Institute in Richmond, Virginia, where I earned my cosmetology license in 1986. I later advanced my education by obtaining my Master Cosmetology Certification from Pivot Point, one of the most prestigious and advanced cosmetology and barber higher education institutions. As a Pivot Point graduate, I gained expertise in precision cutting, color theory, and advanced hairstyling techniques, setting myself apart as a true master in my field.

A Legacy of Expertise & Entrepreneurship

My professional journey took me to Regis Hair Salon, where I honed my craft for five years, followed by a decade at JCPenney Hair Salon. During this time, I built a reputation for excellence in cutting, coloring, and styling for all hair textures—a skill set that became the foundation of my success.I specialized in razor cuts, pixie cuts, platinum blonde transformations, and hair extensions, mastering these techniques and setting a new standard in precision hairstyling. But beyond creating stunning hairstyles, I remained deeply committed to healthy hair care, ensuring that every client not only looked amazing but also maintained strong, nourished hair.Driven by a vision to create something greater, I ventured into entrepreneurship, opening a million-dollar hair extension salon and a full-service multicultural salon. These businesses allowed me to work with diverse clientele and employees, further solidifying my expertise in multicultural hair care.I also took wigs to the next level, elevating traditional wig-making into cranial prosthetics for cancer patients and individuals experiencing medical-related hair loss. Through this innovation, I provided life-changing solutions for those in need, using beauty as a means of healing and confidence restoration.

The Birth of Blueprint Hair Academy

I founded Blueprint Hair Academy with one mission: to bridge the gap in traditional cosmetology training by ensuring students are equipped to work with all hair textures—including those often overlooked in mainstream beauty programs.I recognized that many cosmetology schools primarily focused on European hair textures, leaving future stylists unprepared to serve African American, Hispanic, Asian, and other multicultural clients. Knowing that true success in the beauty industry comes from versatility, I created Blueprint Hair Academy to redefine beauty education.

• Accredited Training – Meeting Alabama Board of Cosmetology standards for state board certification.
• Specialized Programs – Offering individualized courses in Cosmetology, Nails, Barbering, Natural Hair, Esthetics, and Instructor Training.
• Hands-On Learning – With top-tier equipment, real-world experience, and expert mentorship.
• Entrepreneurial Focus – Preparing students to build their own brands and businesses.

Setting the Standard in Beauty Education

I set the bar for other cosmetology schools by ensuring every student feels special in their craft. I designed Blueprint Hair Academy’s programs to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to thrive in the beauty industry.By thinking differently and offering specialized programs, I continue to pioneer a new standard in cosmetology education. My dedication to excellence and inclusion ensures that every graduate of Blueprint Hair Academy doesn’t just find a job—they build a career and become industry leaders. At Blueprint Hair Academy, you don’t just learn—you become a game-changer.