SERENA JAMES
Orlando,FL
Summary
- Led hair and makeup initiatives for film, television, and live performances, particularly in theme park environments. Cultivated relationships with high-profile clients such as Steve Harvey, Bishop T.D. Jakes, and Sir Richard Branson. Oversaw creative processes to enhance visual storytelling in diverse media.
- Led wig design and styling projects, ensuring alignment with client specifications. Oversaw application of period hairstyles, contributing to authentic looks for events. Mentored junior stylists in advanced techniques and historical hair trends.
- Provided tailored hair styling solutions for African American clients, focusing on weave techniques to enhance client satisfaction.
- Delivered professional makeup services, focusing on character and beauty applications, including bridal, airbrush, and men's grooming styles.
- Implemented and adhered to COVID-19 safety protocols to ensure health and safety during close contact with clients and staff.
- Facilitated effective team leadership and department management to enhance productivity through supervision and schedule coordination.
- Advocated for member interests and negotiated agreements as executive board member and head shop steward for Local 631 - WDW Cosmetology.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
Wig Crew/ SFX Hair
Universal Studios Epic Universe
Orlando, FL
01.2025 - Current
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Wig, Hair, and Makeup Local Assistant
Broadway’s Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Orlando, FL
01.2026 - 02.2026
Facilitated wig application and removal for assigned performer during character transitions.
Executed maintenance and cleaning of wigs, ensuring restoration to original documented designs for assigned performers.
Maintaining the look of the design wig throughout the entire performance.
Monitored and adjusted wig changes to ensure timely cue delivery for performers on stage.
Coordinator of Cosmetologists
Walt Disney World
Orlando, FL
09.2010 - 01.2022
- Manage Hair and Makeup departments and oversee execution across multiple different attractions, events, and company departments throughout the park and connected facilities; design and execute hair and makeup throughout park
- Manage and schedule stylists for different units of the Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade; coordinate wig maintenance and makeup for cast members; Design and maintain the Ice Skater Unit
- Manage wig and makeup department, comprised of six personnel at Disney Dreamer Academy; act as Key Hair and Makeup for special events including National Association of Black Journalists conferences
- Lead HMUA team at numerous locations for VIP photo shoot opportunities and follow through with VIP talent during stage appearances
- Coordinate all Hair and Makeup services for brides for Disney Weddings
- Act as Key Hair and Makeup Artist for press junkets for major park events including Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge Grand Opening; Star Wars: Millennium Falcon Ride Opening; and NBA Experience Grand Opening
Hair and Wig Specialist Coordinator
Blue Whale Productions
Orlando, FL
08.2021 - 11.2021
- Lead Stylist for Howl-O-Scream event at SeaWorld, Orlando
- Designed wigs for 56 assorted characters
- In charge of wig maintenance throughout event season
Cosmetologist – Wig and Makeup Department
Walt Disney World
Orlando, FL
07.2009 - 09.2010
Cosmetologist - Wig and Makeup Department
Walt Disney World
Orlando, FL
10.1994 - 03.2006
Education
Associate of Science - Business Administration And Management
Florida Metropolitan University
Winter Park, Florida04.2002
Cosmetology Diploma - undefined
Stewart School
Sioux City, IA01.1992
Skills
Friendly, positive attitude
Teamwork and collaboration
Customer service
Problem-solving
Personal Information
- License: Licensed Cosmetologist
- Title: Hairstylist | Makeup Artist
Selected Additional Credits
Magic Car Night, 2021, Disney/Chevy, MOCEAN, NBA Experience, 2019, Disney, Disney Magic Music Day, 2005, Yellow Shows Productions, Microsoft, 2017-2019, Orange County Convention Center, Head of Hair/Makeup Department, Frozen Broadway Tour, 2022, Doctor Phillips Performing Arts, Prom Tour, 2021, Doctor Phillips Performing Arts Center, Les Misérables Tour, 2019, Doctor Phillips Performing Arts Center, First Wives Club, 3, 2022, BET+, David Makes Man, 2, 2021, Page Fright/HBO/OWN, Hair Asst/3rd Chair, The Right Stuff, 2020, Appian Way/National Geographic, Hair Assistant
Education And Professional Development
- Dekalb Technical Institute, Covington, GA, Cosmetology Diploma, 1992
- Barbizon Acting and Modeling School, Tampa, FL, Professional Courses in Makeup Beauty Application, Corrective Beauty Application with Dermablend
Memberships
- IATSE Local 798
- IATSE Local 631
Affiliations
IATSE Local 798
Timeline
Wig, Hair, and Makeup Local Assistant
Broadway’s Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
01.2026 - 02.2026
Wig Crew/ SFX Hair
Universal Studios Epic Universe
01.2025 - Current
Hair and Wig Specialist Coordinator
Blue Whale Productions
08.2021 - 11.2021
Coordinator of Cosmetologists
Walt Disney World
09.2010 - 01.2022
Cosmetologist – Wig and Makeup Department
Walt Disney World
07.2009 - 09.2010
Cosmetologist - Wig and Makeup Department
Walt Disney World
10.1994 - 03.2006
Cosmetology Diploma - undefined
Stewart School
Associate of Science - Business Administration And Management
Florida Metropolitan University