Ashley Viera Soto, a Woodbine native, turned her passion for hair and makeup into a thriving business with the help of the Cosmetology program at Cape May County Technical Schools. Both the skills and confidence she developed in the program made her more than prepared to enter the beauty industry upon graduation.
A 2012 graduate of the school’s Cosmetology program, Soto developed expertise in hairstyling, makeup application, sanitation and client consultation. She credits the comprehensive, career-focused training she received for not only easing her transition into the workforce but also giving her the courage to pursue entrepreneurship at a young age.
“The education I received at Cape May County Vocational High School gave me a strong foundation in both the technical and professional sides of hair and makeup,” said Soto. “The program prepared me to confidently transition into the beauty industry right out of graduation, which set me up for the success of owning my own business by the age of 21.”
Soto co-founded Say I Do Hair, a bridal hair and makeup business she owns and operates alongside her business partner. Since its launch, the business has grown exponentially, building a loyal clientele and earning a strong reputation for personalized, high-quality services.
Today, Say I Do Hair serves brides throughout Cape May, Philadelphia, New York and beyond. Soto continues to refine her skills and stay current with evolving beauty trends and techniques, taking pride in helping clients feel confident and empowered on their most important days.
“I take pride in delivering personalized services that enhance each client’s natural features and help them feel confident,” said Soto. “Watching the business grow and being able to do what I love every day has been incredibly rewarding.”
