By Staff Writer: Trinidad Carrasco

Sonia Marie knew she wanted to do hair while she was still in high school, but life had other plans. As a young mother, her dream had to wait until her youngest child turned five. In 2013, she finally took the first step toward the career she had always wanted and eventually went to beauty school.
Starting out wasn’t easy. In her early 20s, Sonia faced constant setbacks with landlords and salon spaces that lacked basic necessities like air conditioning and running water. Some locations were cramped and uncomfortable, forcing her to step away from doing hair for a time. Despite the challenges, the support of her children, family, and husband encouraged her not to give up.
Sonia returned to the industry by working under another stylist at a small salon. Eventually, a friend helped her find her own space, where she now runs and operates the salon fully on her own. She has been there for nearly seven years.
Today, Sonia primarily focuses on girls’ hair and hopes to expand her salon in the future, so each stylist she hires can have their own space. The name “High Maintenance” came from people often calling her that, a label she proudly embraces, believing that taking care of your hair is something every girl deserves. Her story shows that no matter what happens in life, you can always find a way to achieve your dreams.
High Maintenance is located at 121 S. Canal St., Suite C, Carlsbad, NM, and appointments can be booked through Booksy. In case you are ever in the area and want to get your hair done the “High Maintenance” way.
