Complacent Stylist: Building An Empire
Thank you to everyone for the overwhelming support and appreciation shown towards me for writing this column.
It’s not easy to share and as many of you know, I’m not one to do things for attention. Instead, I write to you in order to keep myself sharp and provide the support to all of you who read, call, come to classes, and rely on us for information.
With so many of you responding, I have received lots of requests for how I started my business and arrived at where I am now. So, let’s take a trip down memory lane…
Starting Out – Customer Appreciation
When I started out as a stylist, I didn’t have much of anything. I borrowed a lot to open my first salon, I didn’t know much about running a business, and I especially didn’t know about advertising and marketing. I got by with the help of friends and clients, and my appreciation for them ran me right into a great business building idea… Customer Appreciation Night.
I started with just one night at the end of the month and it grew to include several nights throughout the month.
Why did I do it this the way? What made it so successful?
This is going to sound terrible and it is, so if you’re sensitive and have a heart, I understand… but I was hungry and had bills to pay.
I knew everyone had the most money saved up by the end of the month because the first of the month is rent, bills, and life. Hosting a party at the end of the month ensured that people would have a decision to make. Do the right thing, save your money and pay your bills OR be late a week and have really good looking fun hair!
Guess what? Within 6 months of opening the salon, we were able to hire shampoo people and a front desk person. I didn’t have to run back and forth anymore. Within the next 6 months, I had an assistant and hostess to go around cleaning and bringing clients refreshments.
Everyone Loves a Party!
A lot of people especially love private parties… there’s just something to be said about attending an event that is not open to the public. So I presold tickets to my own clients and anyone else that would listen to me for 30 seconds. In turn, my salon created a magical event with the following:
- I used the presale money to get giveaways… because who doesn’t like leaving with goodies?!?
- We convinced the local restaurant owner to cater the event so they could promote their food.
- I knew all the local bartenders because I used to drink back in my twenties. So I had them come in and promote their bar by pouring a few bottles of wine and some drinks.
- We pumped up the music until the police showed up for noise complaints.
- And we gave consultations to our clients and their family members.
Looking back on it now, the amount of alcohol we served was a bad idea but at the time, whoa baby did we have fun! Nowadays, you can have an ‘alcohol sampling’ which is a fancy way of saying, “Get FREE beer, wine, or liquor!”
The point of the night was not to do anyone’s hair. It was to do consultations, get them excited and book them to back in very soon. Some people did get their hair done at these parties, but they had to come back the following week to get the color balanced and haircut evened out. But even then, we would have a laugh about it instead of them being upset.
The entire party created such energy that we started getting a ton of referrals. People naturally felt like they were part of something and wanted to show off.
Recognition
These customer appreciation parties soon led to some weird occurrences outside of the salon… people would recognize me! I would be sitting at a restaurant trying to eat, at the grocery trying to figure out what to eat, at the hardware store trying to figure out how to fix stuff and people would come up and say, “Hi Eddie! When is the next party?” or “Thank you so much, look at how well my hair is doing!” After a while, I had become a little local celebrity. It was important for party attendees to try and impress me by doing what I told them and showing off their great hair!
My little self who started small began to expand and exact change in my area. I knew everyone, the people who made coffee, the checkers at the grocery, the restaurant staff, bank tellers, dry cleaners, and the gas station guy. It didn’t matter where I went, I knew everyone and most importantly they knew who I was.
We have to remember that we are mini local celebrities. On a day off, the last thing we want to do is get up, dressed and out the door, but we are our own best advertisement.
I used to make myself an appointment at the salon and have an assistant apply my color so it was always fresh looking. I didn’t enjoy getting dressed up all the time, but it was necessary…. we are, after all, symbols of fashion. It was the worst to see someone outside of the salon looking “normal”. It deflated the whole image, especially in today’s social media world.
It’s easier now to advertise yourself but at the end of the day, we still need to physically do hair. Those people are local and come from all around your local neighborhood and a lot closer than you realize. The best social media are your neighbors and neighborhood. Be a brand, be an image, be a celebrity, be the product that they can’t get online or anywhere else!
- Published in Celebrity Hair, DIY, Hair Care, Hair Salon, Hair Styling, Hair Tips, Hair's the Bling, Lifestyle
Complacent Stylist: Debunking the BIGGEST gray hair coverage myth
The Complacent Stylist is someone who has gotten into the mindset of comfort zones, laziness, stifled creativity.
These are the worst things that can happen to us but unfortunately, sometimes we find ourselves in one of or all of these scenarios and that’s when we run into most of our issues… complaints, RE-do, unhappy clients.
It’s brutal mentally, physically, and financially to have to be in that situation. Let’s talk about how or why we became complacent and get back on the road to confidence!
It is a full time job in itself answering coverage questions. As the old saying goes, ‘if I had a dollar for every time I got asked this question…’ Lucky for all you, I don’t get a dollar every time. If I did, I’d be retired 3 times over by now 🙂
I know there are strong opinions out there, some of you will not agree with me on this one. What we are talking about today is not which color is right or wrong, good or bad. Ultimately at the end of the day, follow manufacturers direction for once and measure how much is mixed, and time it properly for how long it’s supposed to process.
What we are talking about today is the schools of thought as to which developer is supposed to be used when formulating for gray hair coverage. Time’s change, technology evolves and we are getting new information every day. Let’s remember that although all this information and technology is great, we still are doing chemistry 101 and there are certain rules that we have to remember when formulating for coverage.
What is Developer Strength? Why does texture, density, and porosity matter?
Developer Strength is the percentage of Hydrogen Peroxide in our developers. It’s the developer that diffuses natural pigment to make room for
Texture, Density, Porosity. We all know this too!
Ammonia is designed to open and swell the cuticle allowing artificial pigment to enter the hair. The combination of Ammonia with Hydrogen Peroxide starts the oxidation process and depending on which level of developer we use, determines how aggressive that process will be.
So using low volume developers will only activate the ammonia in colors a little bit making the process not so aggressive whereas, using higher levels of developer will activate the ammonia in colors more making the process more aggressive.
Developers are tools that we use to do our creative work.
Developers do not know what we want them to do, they have one job.
If the client’s hair is thin, soft, sparse, or the condition of the hair is porous, using 20vol developer is going to be more aggressive than we anticipate, causing up to 2 levels of lift which will make the final color look lighter than we wanted, resulting in the client thinking there was not enough coverage.
This is when 10vol or sometimes even lower volume developer needs to be used so that we do not activate the oxidation process so aggressively resulting in less lift and more deposit in this situation so that we can achieve anticipated results.
This is also true for the opposite. If the hair is thick, dense, coarse, or the person has hair enough for 3 people, then often 20vol isn’t enough. In these unique cases, we may need to break through that extremeness with even 25vol or sometimes, even 30vol developer to get the anticipated result.
The normal average hair client is easy enough and 20vol developer formulas work just fine. That’s why no one ever calls me to say thank you for this formula… it already works great.
Don’t be lazy, don’t get comfortable and complacent.
Stay creative and solve the puzzle of what your client wants even when they have difficulty communicating it.
- Published in All-Nutrient, Hair Care, Hair Salon, Hair Tips, Hair's the Bling, science
Katy Perry Returns to Her Roots
Spotted Monday in L.A. at an xx concert, Katy Perry had ditched her technicolor hair for her classic black. This past year we have seen her with every hair color imaginable from blonde, red, blue, pink, and the list goes on. Katy Perry was also seen with darker hair for her new ad campaign for Pop Chips.
In an interview with MTC earlier this year, Katy’s stylist, Rita Hazan explained the sudden craze with unexpected hair color “Some of the ’80s is back, those vibrant colors and neon colors. I think girls are a little more relaxed into bringing their inner self out, their inner crazy,” she said. “It’s not so structured, [like] you have to be pretty and fit into this mold. I love women embracing their inner crazy and making it work for them.”
Hazan said, “There are no rules, and it doesn’t seem like it’s organized or styled. Each person has their own individual personality and they rock [it] and it works for them. It’s nice to see women embracing themselves in that way.”
Clip-in hair extensions are a great way for clients to express themselves (much as Katy Perry has been doing this past year) without the damage of dying their hair repeadetly. It also allows them to try out a neon or vibrant color without having to fully commit. Clip-in hair extensions by SO.CAP.USA can be applied by your client at home, removed at home, and resued at their leisure.
For more information about purchasing She by SO.CAP.USA hair extensions call us at 847-741-5000 or visit us online!
Photo: FameFlynet
- Published in Hair Extensions, Hair's the Bling
The Benefits of Hair Smoothing Treatments
We have all seen the clients who abuse heat tools. The symptoms are all there: split ends. Frizzy hair. Dry and parched look. Over all lackluster appearance. And try as we might to convince them to slowly cut back their dependence on heat tools, they insist on doing it anyways.
For clients with frizzy, curly hair, going au naturale may put them outside of their comfort zone, thus their dependence on heat tools. This is where hair smoothing treatments come in – the only way to give your clients the smooth, sexy hair they have always wanted without the daily use and abuse of a flat iron. Find out the benefits of using a hair smoothing treatment in your salon:
- Natural Keratin Based Technology – Hair smoothing treatments infuse hair with keratin, a naturally produced protein that is needed to keep hair healthy and shiny. Keratin fills in the ridges of the hair where it is brittle and cracked giving it a smooth appearance.
- Safe for Color Treated Hair – In fact, keratin treatments are a great service to add to your client’s color consultation to seal in the color.
- They are Long Lasting – Keratin treatments last anywhere from 2 – 2 1/2 months depending on the hair type and how often hair is washed
- Save your Clients Hours Everyday – For your clients with naturally curly hair they may be finding themselves battling with the flat iron in the morning and at night before going out. This can be frustrating and time-consuming. A simple keratin treatment only has to be performed a few times a year and will literally change their lives. Keratin treatments also dramatically reduce your blow drying time.
There are also a few considerations when getting this treatment done such as:
- You can not wash your hair for a few days after the treatment
- You should only use sulfate free shampoos and conditioners to make the treatment last longer
- You must be careful to only select a hair smoothing treatment that is 100% formaldehyde free
For the safest, most effective hair smoothing treatment we recommend using All-Nutrient’s Keratin+ Smoothing Treatment – the only 100% formaldehyde free keratin based service. All-Nutrient’s Keratin+ uses a Cuticor Cellular MicropHusion System to heal porous hair to restore hair’s original health. To find out more about this treatment call us today at 847-741-500 or visit us online.
- Published in Hair Care, Hair Styling, Hair's the Bling
Everything you Need to Know about Organic Hair Care
If dry, parched hair is a concern of yours, it probably stems back to your hair care products.
With so many products on the market claiming to be “all natural” and “derived from organic ingredients” it can be difficult to know what to look for, and a “trial and error” phase can leave your hair dull and lifeless.
What you can be assured of is that organic hair care (and skin care) products are here to stay…because they work, especially for people with:
- Sensitive skin
- Allergies
- A tendency towards dry hair/scalp
The first thing you need to know is the difference between all natural and organic:
Al Natural Products: These are products that are 100% natural or “naturally derived. They are minimally processed and contain fewer preservatives and chemicals (usually). It is important to note that the USDA does not regulate products being labeled as all natural.
Organic Products: this refers to the ingredients used to make the product. Organic means the ingredients were grown without pesticides, chemicals and artificial preservatives. Certified organic means that 95% of the ingredients are organic. “Made with organic ingredients” denotes that 70% of the ingredients are organic.
Here are the top 5 ingredients to look for in organic hair care products:
- Shea Butter
- Vegetable glycerin
- Aloe vera
- Avocado Oil
- Tea Tree Oil
All-Nutrient is a trusted hair care/hair color brand well known for its fusion of natural and certifiably organic ingredients. All-Nutrient shampoos and conditioners are made for every hair type and concern – from dry hair, oily, or color-treated these botanical-infused cocktails will leave your hair in the best shape of your life.
For more information about All-Nutrient products and carrying organic products in your salon, visit us online or call us today at 847-741-5000.
- Published in Hair Care, Hair Coloring, Hair's the Bling
Taylor Swift Debuts Her New Hair Color!
Photo courtesy of huffingtonpost.com
Taylor Swift is known for her long, naturally curly hair…and its vibrant blonde color. Recently she decided to switch things up when she debuted a slightly darker hair color for her new Covergirl Campaign.
The 22 year old spoke of her recent transformation,”I think in life we have a bunch of different versions of ourselves and that goes with our personality and how we act around a friend, that’s how we act in a job interview…it’s all very different how we act. I think it’s all equally different the way we choose to dress, the way we choose our makeup. The cool thing about makeup is that it can be so different on any given day.” Apparently Ms. Swift is starting to feel the same way about her hair color!
The last time we saw Taylor make a major hairstyle change was for the February 2012 cover of Vogue when she donned blunt-cut bangs. While this is not such a dramatic change in style, it certainly adds a rich sophistication to her look.
Going a few shades darker than your natural hair color is a great way to make a subtle statement without a major commitment. This can be done gradually with low-lights, or all at once with a single process color. To get the best looking results, we recommend using All-Nutrient organic hair color. All-Nutrient is known for keeping its color longer than any other dye on the market without all the added chemicals and preservatives.
To find out more about how All-Nutrient can benefit you, visit us online or follow us on Twitter/add us on Facebook today!
- Published in Hair Care, Hair Coloring, Hair's the Bling
Keep your Style Hot this Summer with Hair Extensions!
Does it take your hair forever to grow, but you love that long, sexy beach hair?
Not all of us have the time and patience to wait years for our hair to grow. And there are better alternatives to waiting years to obtain the length and style you crave.
Even after years, only a select few will ever be able to achieve hair with the natural volume and texture they desire.
With human hair extensions from She by SO.CAP.USA you will have the most natural-looking and longest lasting hair extensions on the market. Whether you want clip-in extensions for a special event or want extensions that last all summer long, SO.CAP.USA has just the option for you.
What many people don’t know is that human hair extensions are actually extremely low maintenance (which is perfect for summer!). Unlike synthetic hair, human hair extensions can be styled (and even dyed) just like your own natural hair. Heat tools can even be used on your extensions to offer a wide array of styling options.
Hair extensions are also great because they are no longer just for the rich and famous (although they are a must-have every year for the red carpet). Hair extensions are now more affordable than ever with a wide variety to choose from.
With She by SO.CAP.USA hair extensions, you can choose strands of hair discreetly bonded throughout your own hair or a full head of hair for the most luxurious, natural-looking style possible. She by SO.CAP.USA offers:
- Extensives: Reusable hair extensions that can be applied is strips or strands
- Full head extensions: Available in over 81 shades and 3 textures (straight, wavy, or curly)
- Clip-In hair: Can be applied by anyone, on the go. Most affordable options
- Clip-In ponytail or Bangs: Clips right into hair for an instant makeover!
For more information about She by SO.CAP.USA hair extensions, visit our website. Or if you are a stylist interested in hair extension certification, register online today!
- Published in Hair Extensions, Hair's the Bling
Crack Hair Treatment: Your Defense Against Summer Heat
Let’s face it, if you live in the Midwest, this past week has been hot and sticky and (although we like it better than winter). And with heat and humidity, not only is your makeup melting, but your hair is starting to get frizzy and curly.
If you notice that your style is only lasting the first few hours of the day due to the hot, sticky temperatures, Crack Hair Treatment is just the fix you’ve been waiting for.
While other frizz-busting products only mask the signs of dry, frizzy hair, Crack Hair Fix actually works as a treatment. It has been praised in Allure and Beauty Launchpad magazine and is a staple for stylists across the country.
How Does it Work?
Packed with micro proteins and peptides, Crack envelopes each hair cuticle with a keratinous bond that blocks 95% of frizz and curl. This powerful cocktail of proteins and peptides also heals dry, split end prone hair.
Benefits of Crack Hair Treatment:
- UVA/UVB protection
- lightweight, moisturizing treatment
- Acts as a thermal protectant (Great for use with Ergo tools)
- Won’t leave hair oily/no product build-up
- Adds a healthy shine to dry hair
- Effectively conceals split ends
- Tames frizz and curl all day long
- Published in Hair Care, Hair Products, Hair's the Bling
All-Nutrient Hair Color: The Quickest Dye for Guys
So often we may find ourselves marketing and suggesting hair color to our female clients, but what about our loyal male clients? Afterall, women aren’t the only ones who get gray hair! Many men may find themselves in a bind; going gray can be a hit to their self confidence, but a trip to the salon for a hair color appointment may seem overwhelming and too time consuming.
Michael J.Kunz, Regional Director for All-Nutrient says, “When men come in for a cut, adding more than 15 minutes for color is pushing it.” With All-Nutrient hair color, your male clients can literally shave 5 years off their age in 15 minutes or under.
It is important to break down any misconceptions about hair color to your male clients when bringing up the topic during a routine haircut. While an all over single-process color will require more trips to the salon, many male clients don’t know that a process like natural blending is a simple 15 minute add-on to their regular hair cut appointment.
Here are some services you can offer to your male clientele to fit their schedule and desired maintenance level:
Natural Blending: Takes between 10 – 15 minutes to seamlessly blend grays in with your clients natural hair color. This is ideal for your busy professionals who want to maintain their appearances but don’t have time for regular hair color appointments. To complete this service, use the appropriate Keratint shade with a level 10 developer. This service is great for clients who are first starting to see the signs of gray.
Speed Lights: This is a wet-on-wet technique that adds soft, natural-looking highlights. This service is especially popular with a younger clientele. It is also an excellent way to subtly blend grays for lighter hair colors. To speed up this process, lay your foils on top of one another instead of folding them.
Men’s Youth Booster: This service involves All-Nutrient Keratint Clear or a Color Safe shade comparable to your clients natural color. The Keratint works hard to repair damaged, dry hair while supplying hair with the necessary vitamins and minerals to create a lasting shine. This color technique is great for clients with a lot of gray.
To order All-Nutrient hair color products for men, call us at 847-741-5000 or to find out more about All-Nutrient hair care solutions visit us at www.hairsthebling.com
Organic Keratint adds a healthy shine and natural color for your male clients
- Published in Hair Coloring, Hair's the Bling