Renée Valerie - Hairbrained Awards
The countdown to the Hairbrained Awards is on, and this year's buzz is all about innovation, creativity, and the vibrant community that turns the ordinary into the extraordinary. Our current focus: Renee Valerie, whose mastery of the color palette has painted her as a frontrunner in this year's lineup of exceptional talent.
With a career that spans two decades and roots that trace back to the renowned Tony&Guy, Renee has now become the guiding force behind R+Co's color education, shaping the palette of the modern hairstylist. Renee's approach to color is akin to an artist approaching a blank canvas, seeing not just hair but a medium for storytelling and personal expression. Her nomination is not just a nod to her technical expertise but a tribute to her vision of hair color as an integral part of an individual's narrative.
Can you paint a picture of what your process looks like before ever starting to film a hair video? Do you have any interesting processes you go through before bringing to life a new video?
Before I dive into creating a video or any content, I usually have a plan in mind, most videos are created while I'm at an educational event etc. But I've learned to stay open to switching things up on the fly because that's often when the magic happens and the best ideas come to life.
What has been the most challenging aspect of creating your nominated work, and how did you overcome it?
When it comes to stop motion videos, like the one I am nominated for, the biggest hurdle is simply the time and patience needed to film. I'm incredibly fortunate to collaborate with an incredible team that brings these videos to life which makes the whole process very enjoyable.
What are your thoughts on the impact of social media and digital platforms in shaping the careers of today's hairdressers and artists?
It's interesting seeing the industry completely transform from when I started in the early 2000's till now. Digital platforms have significantly influenced the careers of today's hairdressers, providing a powerful avenue for showcasing their work, building a personal brand and attracting clients. I love how these platforms offer opportunities for professionals to connect with a wider audience and truly make the world a smaller place when it comes to trends.
How do you balance your creative pursuits and professional growth with the demands of the industry and your personal life?
I'm not always successful at creating balance lol, but I'm definitely trying! What does help me is setting clear priorities and boundaries to keep things in check. Being open to adjusting your schedule and plans as needed, and don't be afraid to ask for help if your glass is full. Remember to carve out some downtime for yourself and celebrate your achievements along the way. You just need to find your groove and make it work for you!
What message or advice would you like to share with your peers in the hairdressing community, especially those aspiring to be nominated for future Hairbrained Awards?
The best advice I can offer is to simply go for it! Even if you aren't nominated or don't win, remember that creating art and pushing yourself are the most crucial aspects.
How can people find out more about you?
Lets be friends! The easiest and fastest way to get in contact with me definitely is through IG at @renee.valerie and I would love to see and meet you all at one of my classes! Checkout the link in my bio for the full R+Co EDU calendar and events.
Join us in celebrating the artistry of hairstyling at Hairbrained, where creativity knows no bounds. To learn more, visit www.hairbrained.me and become a part of the #crafthairdresser community.
