Megan Dawson’s Hairventure Experience
Meet Megan Dawson, a hairstylist hailing from the picturesque city of Spokane, Washington. As the proud owner of Megan's Hair Studio, she has spent years honing her craft and creating hair transformations that leave clients not just looking good but feeling fantastic too. Megan's personal philosophy is simple but powerful: "When you look good, you feel good." It's this mantra that has fueled her passion for haircutting and her dedication to helping people discover their best selves through their hair.
But Megan's journey doesn't stop at her studio's door. She recently embarked on a Hairventure of a lifetime, teaming up with The Hair Nerds for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Japan. This enchanting tale is not just about hair; it's a cultural exploration, a fusion of artistry and tradition, and a journey that will leave you inspired and in awe.
Who is Megan?
Hi, I'm Megan. I've been doing hair since the pandemic. My passion is haircutting and helping people feel confident. My goal is to create an effortless look that my clients are proud to wear every day.
What sparked your decision to head off to Japan for the Hairventure, and has that experience reshaped your approach to life?
I love to travel, especially internationally. This was the first opportunity to experience Japan and with the added benefit of going with a group of hairdressers, I immediately jumped at the opportunity. Japan changed my way of thinking about the world. The people are so conscientious, especially in their approach to serving others. They acknowledge and respect others in the simplest ways. It's something you feel just walking around the city of Tokyo. You have to experience it to believe it. It has inspired me to do the same.
How has your artistic expression in hairstyling evolved since your time in Japan?
There is not a day that goes by that I don't use the techniques I learned in Japan. It changed how I view hair completely. I take more time to refine my looks and to really visualize how the haircut will affect the client in between appointments. I especially love using a hair-thinning technique I learned from Mizutani. I usually have clients feel their hair before and after using the technique and they are always shocked at the difference.
I'd love for you to share one of those "wow" moments from Japan that still sticks with you.
There were so many. The Mizutani cutting demonstration, meeting Japanese cosmetology students, but one moment really stands out. I remember walking into the Minx Salon shampooing area and going "Wow". The Japanese shampoo experience is completely different than ours in the United States. The chairs lay completely flat, the client's head rests fully and comfortably in the sink, and the stylist provides a relaxing head massage that lasts around 15 minutes. I had to experience this for myself. I had the opportunity to receive this "standard" service from a student at the Milbon headquarters. It was the best shampoo of my life. My goal is to learn this technique to use on my clients one day.
What would you tell someone interested in attending a Hairventure?
Find the time, find the money because this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I wouldn't have been able to experience any of the activities without the help of The Hair Nerds arranging everything for us. Plus, you get to bond with other hairstylists from around the United States and the country you're visiting. It's a win-win. I felt so safe and taken care of. I will be attending future trips.
How has the Japan trip influenced your goals or the new styles you're itching to try out?
For sure, learning the art of Japanese shampooing is at the top of my list.
I knew I was a Hair Nerd when...
I knew I was a Hair Nerd when I finally made the connection that getting our hair done is therapeutic. I have a background in Psychology and was once interested in becoming a therapist. Now I am.
Where can people find out more about you?
I'm on Instagram @mega.haircuts
Also my website meganshairstudio.com
