The Hair Nerds

Andrew Carruthers

Erin — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 23:15:59 +0000

Andrew Carruthers, co-owner of Lunatic Fringe Sugarhouse in Salt Lake City, Utah, is the one of our new favorite stalking victims. Not only is he incredibly talented (hello! He shot, edited and did the hair for his NAHA) but also humble . He recently signed on to be the first Sam Villa® Platform Artist, and he is a finalist in the Professional Beauty Association 2013 North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA) for “Men’s Hairstyling” . Anytime we talk by the Sam Villa® booth at at show, people are packed in and sitting in the aisles to watch him educate. Find out why we love him and think you should too!

You have definitely been a part of the NAHA scene for quite some time. How does your first individual nomination feel?

I hadn’t entered for a while because the style of image that was winning everything wasn’t the kind of work I like to do. So, getting nominated was incredibly encouraging that NAHA is ready for more diversity in the photographic style and design of the hair.

What is in the water in SLC? It is a haven for talent!

I love that SLC has always been seen as this podunk little town in the mountains… don’t tell anyone, but I think we are one of the best kept secrets in the U.S. The strong conservative culture here has bred an even stronger counter culture. Everyone that visits is blown away by the quality of our artistic community… hair, art, music, food, tattoos, etc…

Would you classify yourself as an educator, primarily? Is that where your passion truly lies?

Absolutely… I love being a salon owner, I love doing hair behind the chair, I love photo shoots, but teaching, mentoring, and coaching is what really turns me on. I can be pretty selfish with my time and focus, but when I get focused on other people and their success, it always blows my mind how much happier I am. I think teaching and coaching will always be a constant in my life regardless if it’s hair, business, or life in general.

Top 3 Stylists you would love to work with:

1. James Morrison… which I have had a few opportunities to get closer to and I’m stoked about it!

2. Robert Lobetta… duh!

3. the final one would not so much be one person but a collection of people… I wish I could have some of my old friends back that I’ve worked with over the years to create a sort of “super salon”. Unfortunately, we don’t all see eye to eye on how a salon should be run and that’s ok. I just really miss standing beside those bastards sometimes! if they read this, they know exactly who they are.

Biggest fuck up on stage or with a client…

6 months into my apprenticeship, we had a walk in that wanted a super short haircut (think early stupid Victoria Beckham haircuts… spikey in back and dog ears in the front). I had only learned long hair up to that point and the two other guys in the salon were double booked so I had a quick verbal break down from my teacher and went after it! Two sections into the haircut, I knew I had gone way too short already and panicked. Tyson (my teacher) was pissed! He had to break away from the 2 clients he already had in the salon to work the haircut into something salvageable until it grew out… oops! I guess there was also the time I left a girl under heat for an hour with 40 V bleach in foils… you all know how that turns out

What about the brand new Men’s category sparked your interest?

I had been doing a lot of early 1900′s inspired barbering over the past 2 years so when the men’s category popped up, I figured it was a perfect opportunity to get back into the NAHA game. I had been thinking about a dirty gritty hair shoot for a while but that didn’t seem to fit NAHA… until now apparently. I love things that still look raw and I think men look better that way… I don’t like when men’s shoots get so polished and androgynous looking.

Did you feel like you were going into the competition blind?

I wouldn’t say I went in blind, but I definitely went in with no expectations. Especially because I shot and edited the collection myself which was the first time I’d ever done that.

Tell us about the day of the shoot.

Honestly, it was the easiest and most fun shoot I’ve done so far. I had an exact image in mind going into the shoot and there were so few variables. I was the stylist and photographer, there was no makeup, and the wardrobe was done by my wife Michelle Boucher who was part of the development of the vision from day one. Once Jake (yes, the infamous Jake Thompson) helped me get my lighting set, the rest of the shoot just happened seamlessly!

Andrew Carruthers and Michelle Boucher (wife) and wardrobe stylist.

You have mentored younger stylists, one of whom is up for newcomer of the year… What advice would you give to someone who wants to enter NAHA but is still a new stylist?

Shut the f*#@ up and do something! Perfectionism is the greatest cause of procrastination… if you wait for perfect, you will never get anything done. That is something that Jake and I pride ourselves on when mentoring new people at the salon. When someone says they are going to do something, we hold them to it. I don’t care if you have to shoot your collection on your iphone and put an Instagram filter on it… take the damn picture and enter.

The first photo competition I entered was the TIGI photographic awards. I didn’t even have a license at the time because I was still in my apprenticeship. My boss pretty much forced me to do a photo shoot and submit. I threw a shoot together and literally hated the entry that I submitted… I ended up winning second place in my category and the Loreal Look of the Year award. I thank Tyson all the time for not letting me back out.

What 3 items would you die without?

1. My wife and my dogs (I know… that’s cheating a bit)

2. My motorcycle

3. the love and passion I have for everything in my life

The Lunatic Fringe crew at Paul Mitchell Caper 2010

What has been the most amazing opportunity you have had in this industry so far?

I couldn’t possibly narrow this down to one thing… in fact, a few of them I hated at the time and now realize it’s a huge part of who and what I am.

#1 Apprenticing under Tyson Daniel… I will admit, it was a roller coaster ride and unfortunately it led to me leaving his salon, but I absolutely love that guy for everything he taught me and the person he helped me become. Much love Tyson!!!

#2 Working for Paul Mitchell Advanced Education and becoming the Artistic Director for them.

#3 Being a part of Lunatic Fringe Salons and now being a partner in the Sugarhouse location with my long time friend Jake Thompson

#4 Having a consistent clientele for 14 years… this is what keeps me grounded and feeds what I do on stage and in the classroom.

#5 Joining the Sam Villa company… it’s only been a short time but I can see that this is what is going to push me to the next place in my career. Thank you to Geneva Cowen for connecting us all!

Have you ever had an “OMG, what the hell am I doing here?!” moment? Share.

All the time… and then I always realize in the end, that it was exactly where I was supposed to be.

Words to live by…

“You can’t build a reputation on what you are going to do.” Henry Ford

What do people find most surprising about you?

I’m kind of a pandora’s box… I’m really a biker/mountain man/country boy/musician in my heart but I work in a high fashion/city boy environment. I’m also a life coach and an ordained minister that has performed 9 weddings and a baby blessing. I thrive on paradox… being one thing is boring to me.

What is your next BIG goal?

Winning NAHA of course but that’s out of my hands now. I really want to make the most of the new opportunity with Sam Villa. They are still a young company and I’m getting in with them at a point where they are blowin up! We found a great match and I know we are going to do some massive things together.

I knew I was a Hair Nerd when….

On my second day of my apprenticeship in the salon I got to shampoo one of the sexiest girls I had ever seen. Afterwards, she slipped $5 in my back pocket and told me it was better than sex… Hair Nerd for life!

Lizz Knaphus

Mark — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 22:35:08 +0000

NAHA 2013 is right around the corner! I caught up with my favorite quirky eccentric nominee this year… Lizz Knaphus. I knew I was going to meet a fun, energetic, & whimsical stylist… while she is filled with all those traits, I also discovered an extremely likable & charming young woman that is ready to make a huge mark in our industry! Behind her fashionable glasses, I see a big future for her! Check out how it all went down…

Congrats Lizz! #NAHA is a big deal! Before we get to chatting on that though, let’s talk about how you got your start in this business. I’m sure you are ready to get out of school since your career just got a major kick-start!

As of this interview I have 250 hours left of school still, give or take a few! How I got started in school is I cut, colored, permed my families hair ever since I was too young to know better (sorry little nephew for the “haircut” when I was nine).

When I got older and graduated from the#UniversityofUtah with a degree I wasn’t interested in anymore, I became a professional secretary. Yay!… Not… So I decided to ask around and get my friends and families opinion about where they saw me in the career field.

Many saw me in academics, getting my masters in speech pathology, or getting a different major in something fun like astrophysics, but the idea of going back to school for that long, and with that price-tag, made me consider my options. Meanwhile a few friends had gone to cosmetology school, graduated, and were having fun careers in salons and I was still an indecisive secretary.

It wasn’t until my friend, Jon Kimble, told me to check out #TaylorAndrewsAcademy (TA) that I really considered a career in hair. And the rest, as they say, is history! I absolutely love it, and I can be my quirky, talkative self!

Aside from the NAHA announcement, what has been the biggest opportunity for you in hair so far?

Yeah, NAHA 2013 nominees was a pretty big boost to my opportunity list. I was floored and speechless! Besides that milestone, I can say having the opportunity to take a class from Phillip Wilson was quite the game changer. At TA we are given some pretty amazing opportunities to work with the cream of the crop. I took a class from Nicholas French my second week at TA. Mind blowing stuff for a girl still learning what a Denman was.

Do you have an OMG moment you can share?

Before I shot my NAHA collection, I was trying to find inspiration anywhere I could. One day a little bird told me that the #Teals would be in town shooting DeAnnalyn’s haircolor collection. I surprised them and showed up ready to work the morning before their shoot and offered whatever assistance I could.

They took me under their wing, allowing me to learn the way they worked on set, and the way they treated the fabric of hair. Not only were they some of the sweetest folks, but super talented. As I was assisting them, holding the reflector for DeAnnalyn, I totally had an, OMG moment… I am totally holding the reflector while DeAnnalyn shapes hair inches from my face! OMG Becky!

Hysterical! LOL…

I also had one when I drenched, and I mean DRENCHED, an elderly client of mine… But we don’t need to talk about that here…

So, tell me the inspiration for your collection…

My collection is called “Graffiti in the Woods.” It was literally inspired by finding graffiti in the woods. As off putting as it can be to find bright colors and wheat paste flung on an old oak tree, there is also something beautiful about it. Taking something so organic and enhancing its personality with color and art.

My girls, while each unique and diverse, also have their own powerful beauty that is undeniable, which, I hope, is reflected in their hair.

ABOLUTELY AMAZING! Well my favorite question to ask is PLEASE let us relive “that moment” with you! Give us a vivid description of the moment your name came on the screen as “nominated.”

First of all, I never expected to get nominated. The opportunity to shoot with #KeithBryce and have #SherriCurtis do my makeup was all I needed to be complete.

So, April 30… All 160 students and staff from TA piled into the theater room to watch the YouTube nomination video. We had several hopefuls between students and instructors, so each category was spent on the edge of our seats. I just remember feeling nervous, while trying to keep my cool.

As the categories came and went it felt like a centuries; finally, Student Hairstylist of the Year. I waited with baited breath as I watched the first two collections flash cross the screen. Music change and I saw my three girls pop on the screen, I couldn’t believe it. It wasn’t until I actually read my name that it hit me.

Me and 160 other people. Everyone cheered an hollered, and hugged and congratulated. I just remember covering my mouth like a pageant girl, and standing up and sitting down a few times.

Awww, I’m seriously teary eyed…

When the room died down I remember crying and smiling to myself. All those hours assisting, and all the collections I was a part of helped me get to this point. It was an amazing, life changing 3 seconds.

#NerdStalk …Hair Hero?

Oh man… There are so many. Of course, #Vidal. What an amazing human. I wish I could have had tea with him. I bet he was a two lumps kinda guy… I also admire Anthony Mascolo, Sam Villa, Dimitrios Tsioumas… There are just so many amazing hair people out in the world, it’s really hard to make a list. My favorite daily inspirations are my clients, as cheesy as a cheese ball, but it’s true.

Sounds like you have it all worked out & you are ready to conquer the #HairPlanet …what does Lizz do when she’s not doing hair?

I acquired a terrible taste for travel. I just got back from Tokyo, and I’m planning my next trip to Paris in September. I’ve been all over the world, and hope I never have to stop. It’s quite the expensive habit, but it’s something I’m unwilling to part with. When I’m not traveling I’m usually doing to same ol. I go on little hikes with the fiancé, or take in a pint while enjoying the city by bicycle. To be honest, PBS Newshour also drains quite a bit of my time after school. I’m a bit of an economic junkie.

You’re the perfect #NerdStalkingVictim because I LOVE PBS & every odd program they play! LOL! Thanks for sitting down with us! Any words to live by in this business?

I’m sure there is a right answer to this… Something like, always keep learning! Be the perpetual student! Or, shoot for the moon, even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars! But so far for me, the words I mantra are, be kind, be honest, stay humble, and don’t forget to smile… or floss, cause no one wants to see what you had for lunch.

Oribe Backstage Las Vegas #Throwback

Carrie — Fri, 07 Jun 2013 13:40:02 +0000

Once upon a time we did Hair-Ventures with Carrie’s crappy Olympus camera and anxiously waited for Tuesday morning to share our Hair-Venture shenanigans with our pals due to the crappy phone service contracts we could afford… Thankfully these days are gone. So in light of our next big adventure to Miami, we thought it was only right to share our first experience with Oribe Backstage and gear you up for what is sure to be an epic and unforgettable moment in Hair Nerd History. So laugh, get excited and be inspired and enjoy the early days with us for a moment. ~ The Hair Nerds xo

The Golden Ticket

The day started like any other Wednesday homeroom… announcements, graduates final words and videos of cool shit Erin knew we had to see. So as I glanced at the screen and saw the teaser for Oribe Backstage LV, I instantly fell in love and quickly gave Erin the eye letting her know I was accepting this battle. You see, whenever it came to student trips at my beauty institute, it meant that if you thought for a second you just might wanna be there you’d better be ready for the mad dash to the sign up sheet once homeroom came to a close. These dashes didn’t always end well, and sometimes there were tears….but I knew if it meant teeth were getting knocked out then so be it… I was going to Oribe…and maybe to the bathroom just a little earlier than everyone would be excused to access that hallway list of dreams.

Landing Strip

Once we hit the strip it was excitement and nerves. Everyone got settled and hit the mall on the strip to find the perfect outfits or accents their suitcases weren’t going to provide. Drinks and gold shoes was our groups target. We saw tons of gold shoes but none that said Oribe, until one store finally had them…THE shoes. Classy glittery gold pumps without that flea market feel. I was sold and told to just swing on by and grab my fabulous size 8 stretched heels that were sure to fit a size 9 with no problem. So I did…

Beauty is Pain

And so is walking across the street to the show of a lifetime in shoes that feel like they will crush your toes at any second. But that wasn’t going to stop me. Each step took a hard core internal scream, but I did make it over and finally reached the venue.

As I was walking in, I get rushed from behind by Brenton Lee. Once my feet were back on the ground, I knew these shoes weren’t gonna last. He enjoyed the fact that I almost pissed my pants and loved that I actually thought these shoes would work out for me all day.

But we still got a cool pic with his VIP limo and made our way in.

I feel that every hairdressers in the world should experience an event like Backstage. Las Vegas Back Stage was such an inspiring eventful weekend. No event can you go to and go to a pool party, watch an amazing show with amazing hair, participate in hands on class on a model, and go to the club within 3 days. The hands on portion allowed me to step outside the box and create cool hair. It was such an amazing event to be apart of. Oribe and his team are soooo inspiring. ~ Brenton Lee

Once we entered the show we were greeted with swag bags full of Oribe love

The inspiration book was amazing!

The show started with drinks and nosh and the mind melting show began. This was my first true hair event that focused on a team of creative minds displaying a culture they really were wanting to share and inspire the crowd with.

As much as I love hair shows and education classes, I knew this was different and felt this show took me to a different level of excitement for this craft and the people who do it.

Since my crappy pics couldn’t possibly excite you, I found this awesome video to really give you a taste…

The show came to an end and we knew any moment Oribe was going to walk out and say “Hello” So we waited with anticipation staring down the backstage doors hoping it would be him.

As we stood there waiting Cosmo pal Kelley and I knew standing at this point of the evening would be the most dumbest idea ever and found a safe and hidden place to let the blood flow back into our feet.

Joy & Pain

The doors opened and Oribe made his entrance. We flocked to him like hungry dogs, snappping pictures, asking 50 questions each while seeking advice for the journey we were about to embark.

Then it was my turn!

If you look closely you can see the pain in my eyes… I was literally dying from my numb & painful toes while having the time of my life.

Oribe kindly said his hellos to each of us and headed into the media room. We all watched him as floated away in his awesomeness and headed to the VIP Party!

The night was amazing as was the entire experience for us cosmo students having the opportunity to be so inspired and leave so excited was priceless.

Follow our latest #HairVenture on Instagram to see Oribe #LaFama #BackstageMiami

June 8th – June 10th

Special Thanks: Video by Buzziowacity Oribe pic by BTC

Stalking the NAHA’s- Pt.2

Erin — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 18:53:01 +0000

Each year as soon as the NAHA Finalists are announced, we begin planning our covert ops and the #NerdStalking commences…

Don’t go into #NAHA2013 blind… Allow us to help you fully prepare for the awards show with this three part series.

The North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA) is the most prestigious photographic beauty competition in North America, celebrating the artistry and skill of the professional salon industry. Each year, individuals are recognized in 14 categories of excellence during a star-studded Awards Ceremony. Join us as we honor the dedication and skill of the artists who have inspired us.

Hairstylist of the Year

Allen Ruiz

Couldn’t you just DIE over this collection? We are obsessed with these images. Allen Ruiz should be on high alert in Vegas this year!

Twitter: @ruiz_allen

Facebook Fan Page

Be Allen’s FB Friend

Hairbrained Profile

Instagram: @AllenRuizStyle

Sal Misseri

Twitter: @Sal_V_Misseri

Facebook Fan Page

Be Sal’s FB Friend

Hairbrained Profile

Instagram- @sal_v_misseri

Official Hair Nerd Interview

James Abu-Ulba

Be James’ FB Friend

Charlie Price

Twitter: @CharliePrice303

Be Charlie’s FB Friend

Hairbrained Profile

Instagram: @CharliePriceHair

Official Hair Nerd Interview

Alina Friesen

Twitter: @Alina_Friesen

Be Alina’s FB Friend

Hairbrained Profile

Instagram: @alafriesen

http://www.kalejf.com

Master Hairstylist of the Year

Dimitrios Tsioumas

Twitter:@DTsioumas

Hairbrained Profile

Instagram: @dtsioumas

Frank Rizzieri

Instagram: @frankrizzieri

Ruth Roche

Instagram: @RuthRoche

Be FB Friends with Ruth.

Eric Fisher

Hairbrained Profile

Charlie Price

Twitter: @CharliePrice303

Be Charlie’s FB Friend

Hairbrained Profile

Instagram: @CharliePriceHair

Official Hair Nerd Interview

You can purchase tickets for NAHA 2013, here.

Wella TrendVision 2013 Semi-Finalists

Erin — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 06:52:58 +0000

The Semi-Finalists have been announced!! TrendVision holds a special place in The Hair Nerds hearts because it is where we were inspired to start the site.

We can’t wait to attend the show in Vegas on July 19th, but until then we will have to be content with seeing so many people we love on this list of talented stylists.

Pravana Vivids + Pastels

Erin — Sat, 01 Jun 2013 07:35:50 +0000

PRAVANA’s Show Us Your Vivid’s contest is back – and better than ever! This year Pravana has teamed up with behindthechair.com to offer the contest winner the ultimate prize package. Starting June 1st, students and stylists can enter their dreamiest color creations for a chance to win their own editorial photoshoot in Chicago!

Contest Overview:

Contest will run June 1st, 2013 through August 31st, 2013.
Entries must include at least one ChromaSilk VIVIDS shade and/or one ChromaSilk PASTELS shade.
Entries will be judged by PRAVANA’s Artistic Council Members based on creativity, technique, and overall impact.
Winners will be announced on September 5, 2013 through PRAVANA’s Social Media, Website, and Community Email Blast.

How to Enter:

No fee or purchase is required. To enter, visit http://www.pravana.com/showusyourvivids/, click through to the contest page, and click “submit entry”. From there you will be directed to the behindthechair.com Community website. You must follow directions from the dedicated upload page.

Click “Submit Entry”. Log in or Create a Profile on behindthechair.com/community.
Click “Add Content” & select “Photos.” Upload Three Photos (Before, After Profile, After Front)
Click “Browse” to select file/photo. Photo must be a high-resolution image (300dpi or larger). Select “Add Photo.”
Enter Photo Details:
- Description: PRAVANA CONTEST, along with technique and products used.
- Tag: PRAVANA
- Please Note: Entries must include at least one ChromaSilk VIVIDS shade and/or one ChromaSilk PASTELS shade.
Hit “Save” at the bottom of the page to the left to complete your submission. Your photo will be uploaded to the behindthechair.com master page then moved to PRAVANA Show Us Your Vivids + Pastels gallery shortly thereafter.
Entries must be submitted by “August 31st, 2013 11:59PM PST”

Eligibility:

Open to all U.S. and international residents at least 18 years of age. Must be a licensed professional or registered cosmetology student. Proof of cosmetology license or school registration will be required for selected winners. Employees of PRAVANA, advertising and public relations agencies, educators, and their immediate families, and person residing in their households are not eligible to participate. SUBJECT TO ALL FEDERAL AND STATE LAWS. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW.

Judging Details:

Winners will be selected by PRAVANA’s Artistic Council and notified by PRAVANA via phone call on September 5th, 2013. Winners will be announced to the public through PRAVANA and behindthechair.com Social Media Websites, Company Websites, and Email Blasts. Winning entries will be chosen based on creativity, technique, and overall impact. Submissions become property of PRAVANA and can be used for advertising, publicity, website usage, or anything devised in the future. High-res images are preferred.

Submitted Entries will be uploaded by PRAVANA to a contest album on the PRAVANA Facebook. The Facebook Fan Pick winner will be determined by the entry with the highest number of “likes” on their photo by August 31st, 2013 at 11:59PM PST.

Prizes:

1st Place Prize

Paid trip to the NEW behindthechair.com Academy in Chicago for a creative photoshoot mentored by Daniel Moon, PRAVANA Artistic Council Member. Photo shoot images will be featured in a two-page editorial story in behindthechair.com On Paper, on the PRAVANA and behindthechair.com Websites, and PRAVANA and behindthechair.com Social Media Outlets.

2nd Place Prize

PRAVANA Glam Kit with product of choice – Value: $1,000 (Retail)

3rd Place Prize

PRAVANA Glam Kit with product of choice – Value: $500 (Retail)

Bonus! PRAVANA Facebook Fan Pick

Submitted Entries will be uploaded by PRAVANA daily to a contest album on the PRAVANA Facebook Page. The entry with the most “likes” on Facebook by August 31st, 2013 at 11:59PM PST will receive a Fan Glam Kit with PRAVANA Product Value $500 (Retail).

***For further Vivids Contest Information visit: ShowUsYourVivids

Hair Nerd Fav- New York Streets

Erin — Fri, 31 May 2013 14:06:37 +0000

We are pretty open about our extreme dry shampoo usage. We even have a #NerdWord devoted to the almighty Powder Shower. The search for the perfect dry shampoo is a never ending journey for the Nerds.

New York Streets is seriously hard core. It is like when you are on Day 3 and swear you will wash your hair in the morning but then hit the snooze button an extra 5 times….

New York Streets can handle it.. (trust us.. we have definitely put it to the test!)

Since our introduction to this brand at the Las Vegas Hair Wars at the Palms, we have been obsessed. The Hair Husbands use most of the line, especially the pomades.

Their favorite is the tar because it “looks like molten aluminum”…uh, sure guys. Anytime we can get them to do their hair is considered a win so you won’t hear us complaining.

Celebrity stylist, Casey Geren, used New York Streets to style Kevin Alejandro of HBO’s True Blood. Sharing is Caring, right? So we thought we would give you a chance to win the products to recreate this super sexy look.

Which male celeb is rocking the best hair, right now? Comment below and we will randomly choose a winner on June 5, 2013.

Stalking the NAHA’s

Erin — Sat, 25 May 2013 09:07:34 +0000

Don’t go into #NAHA2013 blind… Research is a key ingredient in efficient stalking. If you want to call yourself a Hair Nerd, then you better brush up on this year’s NAHA knowledge and be ready to go into full #NerdStalking mode at any second. Allow us to help you fully prepare for the awards show with this three part series.

Avant Garde

PBA says: Submit visionary work demonstrating new or experimental concepts in expressive, cutting-edge hair. Entries should reflect good taste and aesthetically pleasing images. This is not a fantasy category but a display of fashion forward, unique and edgy styles.

Matt Swinney

Twitter: @Lanza

Creative Director for L’Anza Healing Haircare

Nicholas French

Twitter: @FrenchNicholas

Website: http://www.nicholasfrench.com/

Jake Thompson

Twitter: @JThompsonhair

Instagram: Jakethompson1

Official #NerdStalking : Jake Thompson Interview

Co-Owner of Lunatic Fringe {Sugar House}

Michael Albor/ Donna Hamilton

Twitter: @donnahamlton

Instagram: The_loft_salon

Website: http://www.theloftsalonanddayspa.com

Martin Alarie

hairbrained profile

Contemporary Classics

PBA says: Show off your skill with wearable commercial styles in haircutting and finishing designed to complement the individuality of the model. Entrants should focus on updating a very classic look. The winner of this category will receive a Vidal Sassoon endorsed award.

Charlie Price

Twitter:@CharliePrice303

Instagram: Charlierpricehair

Official #NerdStalking: Charlie Price Interview

Ammon Carver

Twitter:@AmmonCarver

Facebook: Ammon Carver – Hairstylist

Website: http://ammoncarver.com/

Timothy Switzer

Twitter: @TimothySwitzer

HairBrained Profile

Geno Chapman

Twitter: @GenoChapman

Hope Doms

Instagram: Hopedoms

HairBrained Profile

Editorial

PBA says: Submit your best published cover or editorial work. Work must be published in a consumer publication, defined as a popular consumer media magazine available for purchase on newsstands. Editorial entries submitted from industry publications will be disqualified. In addition to the standard NAHA entry and release forms, Editorial Stylist entries must be accompanied by the Editorial Stylist Entry Information Form, signed by the publication’s editor.

Maryl Velbeck

HairBrained Profile

Dennis Cooper

HairBrained Profile

Charlie Price

Twitter:@CharliePrice303

Instagram: Charlierpricehair

Official #NerdStalking: Charlie Price Interview

HairBrained Profile

Michael Albor

Instagram: The_loft_salon

HairBrained Profile

Sherri Jessee

Twitter: @SherriJessee

Instagram: Sherrijessee

Hair Nerd Features: Sherri Jessee

Upcoming Education: California Editorial Bridal Styling Class

Hairbrained Profile

Hair Color

PBA says: Submit your three before-and-after designs showing off your eye for the perfect palette and coloring techniques. All haircolor must be performed by the stylist named on the entry form. No color manipulation of photography is allowed. Before images must be taken the day of color service, with the same background and draping for each model. In addition to the standard NAHA entry and release forms, Haircolor entries must be accompanied by the Haircolor Technical Information Form, indicating the natural texture and level, the formula(s) and process(es) used, and a diagram of color placement.

Sue Pemberton

Twitter:@SuePemberton

Instagram: SuePemberton

Official #NerdStalking: Sue Pemberton Interview

#TurnHeads Competition

Hairbrained Profile

Robert Banyaga

Twitter:@robert4hair

HairBrained Profile

Silas Tsang

Official #NerdStalking: Silas Tsang Interview

Jennifer Roskey

DeAnnalyn Teal

Facebook: The TealsTwitter: @Happy_henri

Instagram: d_teal1

Official #NerdStalking: The Teals Interview

HairVenture to see DeAnnalyn Teal

** Also, be sure and check out Professor Hair-itage and brush up on your hairdresser history!

You can purchase tickets for NAHA 2013, here.

Robert Brown

Carrie — Fri, 24 May 2013 05:17:36 +0000

Once an aspiring actor and touring constantly with the ice capades, Robert found himself prepping and polishing hair behind the scenes for all of his performing pals. Ultimately accepting his calling for beautiful hair and set his eye on the prize. Since then Robert has become one of the Goldwell Artistic Team members, opened a successful salon and has touched hundreds of stylists across the states with his passion for our industry and captivating stage presence packed with hair know-how. We met Robert alongside one of his industry besties, Amedeo DeRango, and had one of our most memorable and entertaining education classes in the heart of Santa Monica at the Goldwell Academy. We knew then we had to hunt him down for some great knowledge and of course a few laughs… because he is hilarious! So we know you will enjoy Robert Brown as much as we do and hope his passion for the hair world will put a little pep in your step today. ~ The Hair Nerds

After finishing cosmetology school you returned back to your love for acting, what then brought you back to “The Hair Side?” And, how did your acting career help you in the hair world?

My acting actually led me into auditioning for the Ice Capades! I turned pro in 1982. I was 19 and had been licensed and working with hair for 2 years already. The show was magnificent and I quickly starting cutting hair on the side when the cast discovered my other talent. We had over 80 people on tour so I eventually was just conducting salon business in my hotel rooms! I was a member of the corps de ballet for six tours and was line captain my last 3 years. My mother convinced me I would be the oldest chorus boy ever and lured me back home to Memphis with the promise of financial help opening my salon. I went for it!

How does it feel to be a color badass? What is one thing about haircolor that anyone with a tube in hand needs to know?　

You have to love and crave the magic of haircolor to take your work to the next level. It has to continue to amaze you. I still marvel at how it all really works. The number one tip any colorist needs to know is to learn to let the hair “speak” to you. Let the combination of what it has been thru and what you’d like it to do help choose the products you use on it. The keener one gets at assessing existing canvas condition paired with the correct type of coloration for that health level of hair is where color mastery lies…

What advice would you have for young stylists and students about competing in the Goldwell Color Zoom Competition or any other Hair battles of the world?

Take the time to fully understand the guidelines and objectives for the competition. There are loads of beautiful images submitted each year but most fall far from the look and feel of the actual collections that are supposed to inspire them. For example, within the Goldwell Colorzoom Color Challenge, the goal is to create a look that clearly represents the key elements and concepts of the Trend World itself. I always try to create a look that could be the one additional model they could have added to the collection. Staying within the realm of the other images, but asking myself “what’s missing” that could look amazing standing alongside the other looks. The entire process from start to finish is incredibly rewarding and worth every minute and dime spent. Nothing can grow you as a stylist the way conceptualizing, executing, and bringing to fruition a beauty photo can! Looking back over the years you see your taste and style evolve. So do it and do it often!

What let you to becoming an educator for Goldwell? And what do you feel it takes to be good at it?

I have my good friend and long time sales rep to thank for bringing me onboard. She knew how much I adored the product and always used me for advice for local salons so she pretty much signed me up as a Goldwell Technical Associate (GTA) the second she got my yes. I’ve loved every minute of my time sharing about the product. We all know there are all kinds of educators with all kinds of gimmicks and schtick out there. Some are award winners and some are just personalities. I have always partnered with my audience with total honesty. Once fellow stylists trust you they will listen and open up as well. I consider myself a “hairdresser’s hairdresser”. I always hope to make those connections with colorists to empower them behind the chair daily. And to give confidence and trust in trying new things that they may never have tried!

Being a part of the Goldwell Education Inspiration team must be such a honor. How has this changed you as an educator?

I was invited to join the Inspiration Team after achieving success as a GTA. I am in constant awe of my fellow team members. The talent level is obviously through the roof! What changes me as an educator is my constant quest to find my own niche and trying to bring something to the party that the others can’t or don’t offer. Through our diversity in strengths we are the consummate team with something powerful to share with ALL audiences-regardless of age, experience, and taste level. I have never coveted stealing anyone’s spot. I just want to give the kind of presentations that I would want to go to! A class with valuable info, realistic inspiration, and a new perspective that helps keep the craft fresh!

So many educators have told us they get those butterflies in their stomach before getting in front of their class. How do you plan before center stage?

Any presenter who no longer gets a little nervous before any presentation is probably toast! Knowing my material gives me calm but the importance of the audience’s time is what keeps me on my toes. I am much calmer if I feel good about my model and the dynamic I’m about to present. Sometimes fellow presenters can be very nervous and their nerves can be contagious. I like to get alone and “in my own head” for a bit before stepping out. I always remind myself that I either know the info or I don’t. As long as I speak from the heart then I know the audience will trust and feel me and enjoy themselves.

How did you receive a scholarship to Beauty school? And any advice to students who are searching for…..

The beauty school I attended is now defunct unfortunately. It opened in the late 70’s as an advanced training center. The project was a fail so the owners had no choice but to regroup and open as a regular cosmetology school. I was the first class to graduate. We were fast tracked thru and put on the floor VERY early in the process so that the school could see paying guests! The school wasn’t accredited at first so all the students had paid without any loans or assistance. Back in those days it was only $1600 for the entire course! $160 a month for 10 months. I paid my first payment and got my kit. After 3 weeks I was awarded a full scholarship and never paid another dime. I was truly blessed and cannot thank those folks enough! That was like winning the hair lottery! But looking back at what this industry has given me over the years it would be worth ANY amount of money to be a part. THAT is what I would share with any person-young or old- that thinks they would enjoy this business!

Your high energy passion for education is what keeps the crowds coming. What was your best education moment good or bad?

I have had so many fabulous teaching experiences on the road. My best and favorite moments have been onstage at the four different Goldwell Academies in North America. It is so much more powerful to speak about the products in their own house- without the distraction of other brands and images- utilizing only OUR stuff in one of our beautiful facilities. I love the dynamic of working with stylists who have traveled from all over. Watching the energy between the group as they become friends is as exciting as the program itself! My favorite experiences of all time have been with my fellow Team members Rebecca Hiele and Shannon Lamm when we did out show/seminar program called “Stylist Most Wanted”. We always rocked out the most amazing models and had such a mutually respectful time together that I was sad every time they came to a close. Two of my favorite people on the planet and two of the strongest artists as well!

You own a very successful salon, “Hairobert.” What standards do you hold to yourself and your staff to that you wish more salon owners would hold to themselves?

I think with any salon that FANTASTIC hair is obviously key. However, beyond the actual hair excellence part, I try to focus on the guests’ actual experience into and out of the salon. I want my clients to look forward in anticipation for their upcoming appointments. I want them to feel like family and to hopefully count the days until it is time to return! I like the vibe to be fun and relaxed but the HAIR to be totally serious!

You have the BEST retail bag ever! Please tell us how you came up with it & how many of your friends thought you were crazy for it?

The slogan was actually first used in 1989 when advertising in a local “cool” paper that wasn’t really geared for our neighborhood. I knew if we did something typical we would never hear back about who had actually seen the ad or not. So my team brewed over the Sasson tagline (if you don’t look good, we don’t look good) and we ran with it. The morning after the ad hit the stands we were on the local news station and we’ve been getting press ever since. Jay Leno has run it twice to my knowledge and I see it on the internet all the time!

What advice do you have for stylists right out of cosmetology school? Education and salon advice?

My first advice is to be confident with the skills you know that you do have while staying constantly aware that there is SO much more to learn. People can teach you all kinds of facts and skills but there is one thing that cannot be taught. That is TASTE. Taste can only be influenced. As advocates for our clients it is our taste that they are paying for. Your tastes are perpetually changing. And because of that your skillset will need to change frequently as well….Surround yourself with the kind of stylists that are doing the kind of hair that turns you on. It is VERY hard to grow around people that haven’t grown in years. Or may never! Get in where you FIT in!

I knew I was a #HairNerd when….

I was in 5^{th grade my mom would let me stay home from school if I would put her lightener retouch on! I loved measuring and mixing and all the “science ” of it. It was like a game to put it on perfectly. She never trusted salons and could do her own bleach/tone flawlessly. She taught me all about TONERS before I was in high school!….then after the second day of beauty school I fell asleep almost every night with my collection of beauty textbooks all over my bed. I used to love the really old editions of the Milady textbooks. It amazes me to this day how many times I harken back to that “core” info learned long ago! Basics are Fundamental!}

^{Nerd Stalk}^{Robert Brown}^{on Hairbrained and Twitter}

^{Hairobért Salon}

Sebastian Editorial Class – Infinite Possibillities

Carrie — Fri, 17 May 2013 13:10:02 +0000

Education is everything if you want to succeed behind the chair and find excitement in your craft. Some get that license and never look back, missing out on the thrill of concurring new skills, meeting fellow knowledge hungry souls and being exposed to the constant changes our business provides. We encourage you to all get out there and rattle that comfort cage of salon life and go get that education your creative flow is begging you for! ~ The Hair Nerds xo

Tick, Tock…

From the moment I got the call and was invited to take the two day Sebastian Editorial Class, I never stopped looking at the clock.. What was only a few weeks felt like years of torture counting down the days, the hours and the seconds to boarding my plane to L.A.

The big day finally arrived and as I stacked months worth of clothes and gathered all of my tools, I realized there was no way my little jetsetter bag was gonna cut it for this Hair-Venture. But as usual, I needed haul ass if I was to make this plane… So I packed up everything into my trunk and prayed to the travel Gods in hopes of finding a suitcase big enough and one that I could afford to make this happen. Thankfully there is a Macy’s right off the 5 that a girl could run into and grab a suitcase. (I scored… Under $100 & made my plane!)

DAY ONE – The Arrival…

As I pulled up to The Studio, the butterflies of nerves and excitement took over. I knew this class would be amazing and knew Sarah Merrie would be teaching, which for me was super awesome since she and Janine Jarman were my first real Hair-Venture experience. I walked in to be greeted instantly from staff and even students who were also walking into uncharted territory, yet everyone was amped up and united, making the entrance sweeter.

Even Stephen Moody came out to chat with his assistant but made sure to make me feel welcomed by throwing up a “C” for me! I think he was just trying to make sure I felt welcomed and calm so I wouldn’t #MoodyMeltdown in the lobby.

Let’s get to Business…

We were greeted by the beautiful Richelle Evans who whisked us away into the vault of knowledge, leading us to our studio that felt more like a hair show presentation than a classroom.

By the time we grabbed a cup of coffee and turned around Sarah and Richelle had their models on the stage and we were learning.

The class was focused on the Infinite Posibillities collection, demonstrating how to start with one look and transition it to deliver multiple looks for your sessions.

We were encouraged to get outta our seats and explore the feeling of being on stage along side them. Basically resting our heads on their shoulders to soak in every move they made gave us an up close look on the importance of tool and body positioning and how it would effect the outcome of your look.

When I realized braids were going to be part of the curriculum I almost had an anxiety attack. They have been my kryptonite since beauty school. Sarah shared her prior fears of braids but looked like she has been braiding for years, so I knew today was the day I had to put on my big girl panties and face my fears.

Hanging out on a stage gave us access to play with all Sarah and Richelle’s tools and open every product to smell and feel. I’m kinda in love with the Shine Crafter, its not super heavy and its super shiny and pretty.

We spent the first half of our first day watching two full looks along with some really cool tricks.

Usually, on education days your accustom to crappy cold pizza and warm soda… But not at The Studio! VIP status with a relaxing atmosphere to talk hair and make new friends.

Off to Studio 3…

Now it was time for us to try our our new knowledge. We set up our stations and chose two looks from our morning demos.

It was so fun to watch eachother add our own flavors to the looks we created.

One of my favorite things at a hair class is learning from the other students. Anna is actually going through the entire Wella / Sebastian curriculum one class at a time, which to us is pretty inspiring.

After an amazing first day of education, Anna and I needed a ride back to our hotel. After calling for our hotel shuttle a few times, we realized walking in the hot sun was most definitely in our future.

But the second the amazing concierge Rick heard of our crazy talk, he personally drove us home. See, VIP all the way!

Day Two – Go Time…

Waking up for day two was a breeze. I thought about all of the techniques I was shown the whole night and was eager to get my hands into some hair.

As we entered Studio 3 we noticed Jackie’s station was covered in birthday love. Sarah and Richelle dolled up her station with balloons, banners and streamers.

The fact that Jackie spent her special day learning instead of the usual birthday shenanigans really speaks to her true commitment to her craft.

Sarah even made homemade brownies that melted our faces off. They didn’t survive long.

But the fun didn’t end there.. Everyone got presents for Jackie’s birthday! We were the first to recieve the new Sebastian Backcombing Brush before anyone!

After we calmed down from all the morning excitement, Richelle got right into a few more looks.

We loved how many different looks they showed us. These new skills will come in handy on a photo shoot and surprisingly even behind the chair.

I Must Stalk…

Before the models were to arrive we needed to hurry and grab some lunch (again Amazing!) and prep before their arrival. So as everyone went to lunch, I may have sneaked behind the scenes and may have even ended up inside Stephen Moody’s office. That’s not creepy… right?

Stephen has this amazing picture of Vidal Sassoon and himself hanging in his office. Although this photo could be incredibly incriminating, I felt the need to share.

The Session Has Begun…

The models arrived and it was show time. We quickly got started with prepping the hair to recreate the looks we fell in love with during our two day Hair-Venture.

Look! I am braiding!

Anna was getting down on some serious braiding.

Final Looks

Once our models were complete it was time to record all of our hard work. It was so fun cheering everyone on and enjoying everyones work as each of our models posed. Sarah and Richelle made our class so much fun and gave each of us the opportunity to get soild feedback and usefull tips for our future editorial ventures.

We ended the day with a little moonwalk & worm battle and said our good-byes.

Here are all of our final looks!

Anna Draganova

Jackie McWilliams

Kristin Isaac

Hair Nerd Carrie