Vanessa Cills-Harper is a veteran stylist, instructor, and business owner in the Columbia area. A 1988 graduate of WJ Keenan High School, Mrs. Harper continued her education at South Carolina State University. Identifying a need for college students and local residents to stay abreast of the latest hair trends and styles, Mrs. Harper opened her first salon in the Orangeburg area in the early 1990s.

A licensed cosmetologist for 25 years, Mrs. Harper has served on the board at Virginia College and Heyward Career Center. She understands and appreciates that continuing education and life-long learning are essential to the success of any business, including cosmetology.

During her career, Mrs. Harper has been an instructor for Affirm Products, an examiner for the South Carolina Labor and Licensing Board, and has owned 4 successful beauty salons in the Orangeburg and Columbia areas.

Mrs. Harper is the founder and CEO of Loving Me Inc., a non-profit organization that lends aid to those dealing with life alternating events such as medical diagnoses, traumatic events, and housing displacements.

As a cosmetologist and personal stylist, Mrs. Harper also mentors young women dealing with self-esteem issues teaching them to love who they are and providing them with the inspiration and encouragement needed to achieve their goals. She is also a member of Millennium Toastmasters in Blythewood, SC.

For the past 10 years, Mrs. Harper has owned and operated Studio V, a full-service salon in the Forest Acres area.

Mrs. Harper is a devoted wife, dedicated mother, and adoring grandmother. Mrs. Harper’s life and actions are guided by her favorite scripture Philippians 4:13-“For I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me.'‘