We recently had the chance to connect with Rebekah Ondejko and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Rebekah, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I’d say I’m walking a path, but it’s one I created for myself. After a decade working in other salons, I knew I wanted something different, a space that reflected my style and the kind of clients I connect with. Pretty in Punk is that path. It’s not a straight line, it’s got personality and twists, but it’s mine. I’m not just wandering, I’m intentionally building a space where people can come in, feel at home, and walk out feeling like the boldest version of themselves.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name’s Bekah and I’m the owner of Pretty in Punk, a private hair studio in downtown St. Pete. I’ve been behind the chair for over 12 years and I created Pretty in Punk because I wanted a space that felt different from your typical salon, something more personal, alternative, and creative. I specialize in vivid colors and edgy cuts, the kind of looks that make people feel like the truest version of themselves. What makes Pretty in Punk unique is that it’s not just about hair, it’s about the vibe. It’s private, it’s relaxed, and it’s built for people who don’t always feel at home in a traditional salon. Right now, I’m focused on continuing to grow the brand while keeping that one-on-one, authentic experience that sets it apart.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was a misfit — the kid with bold hair, loud music, and a style that didn’t fit the mold. I never wanted to blend in, and I never felt like the traditional idea of ‘professional’ or ‘successful’ matched who I was. That’s what drew me to hair: it’s self-expression, it’s rebellion, it’s freedom. Pretty in Punk is the grown-up version of that misfit kid. A space where other misfits can come as they are and leave feeling even more unapologetically themselves.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self: don’t get discouraged just because you don’t fit into the boxes people try to put you in. One day you’re going to create a life and a career that actually fit you, your needs, your personality, your vision. All the things that made you feel like an outsider will end up being your greatest strengths. Keep going, because you’re building something that doesn’t exist yet.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in this industry is that there’s only one way to be a ‘successful stylist.’ For so long, it was all about working in big, busy salons, grinding behind the chair 10 hours a day, and following beauty trends that don’t actually represent everyone. The truth is, success can look different for every stylist. For me, it’s having a private studio where I connect one-on-one with clients who want something bold and different. Another lie is that clients only want what’s ‘safe’ or ‘pretty.’ A lot of people are craving self-expression and individuality. They just need a space where it’s encouraged. That’s where Pretty in Punk comes in.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I think the story people tell when I’m gone is that I was someone who genuinely cared about how they felt. For me, it’s more than just making someone look good, it’s about making them feel seen and heard. I know what it’s like to feel small, overlooked, or not enough, and I never want anyone in my chair to carry that. If people remember me as someone who went out of her way to make them feel valued, comfortable, and confident, then I did my job right.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Prettyinpunk.glossgenius.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/prettyinpunkhairstudio
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/bekahdoeshair
Image Credits
@ChromeFocusMedia
