HAIRBIZ Year 17 Issue 4

AHIA CREATIVE

AUSTRALIAN HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

JUSTIN PACE

CO AND PACE SALONS

CYMATIC QUEENS

By Justin Pace

The word Cymatic references geometric lines, shapes and patterns juxtaposed with global finery, beauty and Queen references that mutates the head shape, proposing crown-like grandeur. Lighting-wise, broken mirror glass was used to create shapes and patterns with shadow to hint at a secondary figure as a silhouette, implying a queen’s subject. When it comes to styling, A respectful colour - black. Textural variety for robe intricacy was used including mesh, velvet, PVC, glow mesh and satin. Silhouette assortment included tapered tips, pointed lapels, shoulder pads, cut lengths, shapes and gloves. And makeupnot overpowering, forfeiting uniqueness and beauty, enhancing how exquisite and noble a queen is.

QUEEN FRACTAL I

QUEEN ENERGY II

CREDITS:

Hairdresser: Justin Pace

Photographer: Andrew O’Toole

Fashion Stylist: Melissa Nixon

Makeup Artist: Emma Chaisty

Hair Team: Co and Pace Salons

QUEEN CRYSTALLINE III

AHIA CREATIVE

AUSTRALIAN HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

CO AND PACE SALONS JUSTIN PACE

QUEEN FIBONACCI IV

“Winning AHIA Creative Australian Hairdresser of the Year 2023 was a box I didn’t really know I would ever tick. To have won this summit of national creative achievements –alongside peers who have helped build the Australian Hair Industry – is a surreal moment in my career. Leading up to the AHIA Creative Gala Awards’ Night, there was a lot of analysing going on regarding what I did and what my peers did. When the competition is so tough though, you cannot help but engage in this back-and-forth. As someone who’s participated in industry competitions their whole hairdressing career, I have learnt there are highs and lows in the awards’ world. At the announcement juncture, you just have to be happy with what you produced professionally, plus be proud of how hard you pushed beyond personal boundaries. Being fortunate to twice win Hair Expo Awards’ Australian Colour Technician of the Year, I thought it would help my nerves being one of six finalists for AHIA Creative Australian Hairdresser of the Year 2023. Unfortunately, not this Gala Awards’ Night . . . my nerves were greater than ever. Ultimately... Having won this title will push me harder personally by continuing to challenge, plus professionally by being in an amplified position to help the next generation of hairdressers through industry and business channels. If you can dream it, imagine the process and convert to action, you can make anything happen.”

Justin Pace, AHIA CREATIVE 2023 Australian Hairdresser of the Year

QUEEN GLYPH VI

QUEEN FREQUENCY V

PUBLISHER

Linda Woodhead

linda@mochagroup.com.au

GENERAL MANAGER

Jarred Stedman jarred@mochagroup.com.au

EDITOR

Louise May louise@mochagroup.com.au

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Nina Barbara nina@mochagroup.com.au

ART DIRECTOR

Kellie Woodhead kellie@mochagroup.com.au

ADMINISTRATION

Jess Richmond jess@mochagroup.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS

Louise May

Lyndal Salmon

Rex A.C. Silver

Anthony Gray

Kristie Kesic

Kristina Russel

62 The Role of the AHC

63 Raw Reflection

Tina Winchester

Angeli Marie Shaw

Gary Latham

Paul Frasca

Brodie Lee Tskinaris

Clive Allwright

Sheridan Rose Shaw

Belinda Haigh

Hayley Mears

Nicole Healy

Sarah Garner

Kate Henderson

Phil Smith

Alicia Ball

Kym Krey

Kerrie Di Mattia\

OFFICE

PO BOX 252

Helensvale Plaza

Qld 4212

P: 07 5580 5155 mail@mochagroup.com.au www.mochagroup.com.au

DISTRIBUTION

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PRINTING Printcraft

PUBLISHED BY mocha group

PUBLISHERS OF HAIRBIZ, BEAUTYBIZ & BARBERSHOP

HAIRBIZ is published six times a year by mocha publishing ABN 65 091 846 189

No Part of the publication may be reproduced in any manner or

editors letter.

Welcome to the fourth issue of Hair Biz for 2023! We hope you’re as excited as we are about the incredible content, we have in store for you. It’s been an eventful period since our last issue, and we can’t wait to share all the highlights with you.

First and foremost, let’s talk about the Kings Birthday iconic hair weekend that took place in June in Sydney. It was an exhilarating few days filled with events that celebrated the artistry and innovation within our industry. We kicked off the weekend with the AHC Industry Day on Friday, followed by the AHC Leadership Summit and Schmoozefest on Saturday.

The highlights of these events are covered extensively in this issue. On Sunday, we gathered at the stunning Carriageworks building for Hair Festival owned by BHA Media, which also hosted the 2023 AHIA Creative Finalists Gallery, showcasing the collection images with voting taking place for the People’s Choice Award.

The festivities continued on Sunday evening at the Wonderland event held at the Establishment Hotel in Sydney, where we had an absolute blast. Monday marked the second day of Hair Festival, and we wrapped up the incredible weekend with the AHIA Creative Gala event, proudly owned by us, mocha group, at The Star in Sydney. With over 700+ attendees, this glamorous evening celebrated the winners of the AHIA Creative Awards, and their achievements are showcased in this very issue!

In this issue, we also have an array of captivating features. Our front cover showcases the remarkable work of Justin Pace, the newly awarded AHIA CREATIVE Australian Hairdresser of the Year. We also pay tribute to the exceptional talent of Danny Pato, who is now a proud member of our Hall of Fame. We introduce you to the 2023 Hot Shots Winners, a rising star from the UK, Emma Simmons, and the creative geniuses behind Giggles Hair Studio and Boda Hair Boutique. Furthermore, we delve into the world of the renowned session stylist, Wendy Iles, and explore the excellence of Alarah Hair Studio.

But that’s not all—this bumper issue is packed with valuable insights and advice from our esteemed business writers, bloggers, and experts in social media, marketing, branding, and wellness. From tips and tricks to help you succeed in your salon business to nurturing your well-being, we’ve got you covered.

We are truly excited to present this jam-packed issue to you. It’s been a labour of love to compile all the incredible stories, profiles, and advice that fill these pages. We hope you find inspiration, knowledge, and joy within these articles.

Thank you for your continued support and readership. We couldn’t do it without you. Enjoy this extraordinary issue of Hair Biz!

Love and hugs,

Louise May, HAIRBIZ EDITOR louise@mochagroup.com.au

New blends of ash and violet tones for very light blond and platinum blond hair

1/ TONES AND CORRECTS colour-treated or lightened hair

2/ IMPROVES THE CONDITION of porous or chemically-treated hair

3/ IT DOESN’T MODIFY the hair’s natural base colour

small town girl...

BIG AMBITIONS

You may not have heard of Emma Simmons… Yet! But watch out, this girl from the small town of Thirsk in North Yorkshire in the UK has her sights set on global recognition

It was early May 2023 when Emma Simmons found out she’d been shortlisted for International Hairdresser of the Year at the Australian Hairdressing Industry Awards (AHIA). Up against powerhouses of the hair world such as Mark Leeson and Martin Crean, no one was more shocked than Emma to see her name on the lineup.

Although Emma has previously been crowned the AIPP Grand Winner in 2022 and secured the title of Best International Women’s Commercial Collection at the IHAs in 2021, she still struggles to believe the success story she has become. “I’m a little country girl – a pure Yorkshire lass,” Emma laughs. “Being nominated for these global awards and then even going on to win them? Well, it just feels like a dream.”

Hailing from Thirsk, North Yorkshire in the UK, Emma describes the place she grew up in as “a small, rural market town with cobbled streets, way out in the country.” With a population of around 5,000, many of them from the farming community, it’s no surprise that Emma had to venture further afield to pursue the career that would later take her to such dizzying heights.

Emma had decided at the age of seven-years old that she wanted to be a hairdresser. Learning to plait her own hair and then practising styles on her ‘Girl’s World’, she was undeterred when her mum warned her; “There’s no money in hairdressing.” A sparky Emma’s response was “OK, I’ll be the boss then.”

Emma completed her training at an academy in the nearby city of York, while working at a city centre salon and recalls vividly the tutor who trained her. Bernadette, a lady in her 70s, told the class that she didn’t know any of the ‘new-fangled’ techniques, so instead the class was reared on a curriculum of barrel curls, Marcel waves and many of the fundamental (but seemingly old-fashioned) skills that Emma credits for the talents she

now draws on in later life. “I still refer back to my early training for wedding hair, editorial and much of my creative work,” Emma says.

Emma married at 19 years old and moved back to Thirsk with her husband. She worked initially at a small, local salon but admits that it wasn’t an easy transition. “After working in a city centre salon, Thirsk was a shock.” So, proving to her mum that she would indeed be the boss, shortly afterwards, at the age of 21, Emma opened a place of her own, Salon 54. “I thought if I couldn’t go back to the city, I’d open my own salon and run it with big city thinking,” Emma recalls.

Starting out on her own, Emma hired someone part time to help with answering the phones and shampooing. Six months later, she’d employed two more stylists and set her sights on bigger premises. Once she’d moved, the reputation of Salon 54 grew alongside Emma’s ambitions. Today, 23 years on? Well, we now know the success that this salon from the tiny town of Thirsk has become.

Not surprisingly, the salon is seen a ‘luxury destination’ in the local area but it’s not just because of the syrup lattes and herbal teas they serve up, or the top-level products they stock on the shelves. Emma’s attitude is that regardless of its location, her clients should have access to the same high-quality service and trends they’d get in any capital city. Emma encourages inclusivity and diversity – a space where a anyone, whatever their background or age can come and feel special.

Emma’s ‘age neutral’ approach applies to her team too. “I’ve employed people of all ages,” Emma explains, “right from college leavers to people reaching retirement. Age is just a number – there’s no shelf life in hairdressing and you should never stop learning. I don’t think anyone should feel out of place or like they don’t fit in.” Emma’s philosophy is that she always employs staff based on their personality, not their skill. We can teach

skills,” she says.

As well as training a multitude of recruits inhouse over her time, one of Emma’s greatest protégés is her husband, Chris who gave up his job as a butcher to be retrained (by Emma) in hairdressing. She now describes him as her rock; “he makes it all possible,” she says. Within the team there’s a strong spirit of collaboration, a tight-knit group who all get along. It’s fortunate that Emma’s clients back her ambitions too. Understanding that it’s the creativity that keeps Emma’s spark alive, they book in advance and relish Emma’s tales of London photoshoots, fancy events, and big brand partnerships.

With her career in full swing, Emma shows no signs of slowing down. She’s a brand ambassador for Matakki scissors – a union that allows her to unleash her first love of precision cutting that stems back to her training in classic hairdressing. Naturally, she cites Vidal Sassoon as her ultimate icon, “For me, it’s all about the way he could build shapes that were so simple, so beautiful and so suited to the individual.” Her more recent heroes are Akin Konizi – a master of blending simplicity with modernity, and Errol Douglas, whose work she remembers admiring years ago, never believing she would one day be rubbing shoulders with these greats.

Next on Emma’s agenda is an emerging talent project with the Fellowship for British Hairdressing – unfailingly active and enthusiastic about supporting the association, she was named their Member of the Year last year. As we speak, Emma has also just finished shooting a photographic collection with Andrew O’Toole. She describes the shots as “out of this world. Andrew understood my concept completely but also pushed

me beyond my comfort zone.”

It’s clear that Emma Simmons is a name not to be underestimated. But where does that immense drive and determination come from? “It 100 per cent comes from my mum,” Emma says. “My mum worked her way up from the bottom and made huge sacrifices to end up being manager at the care home where she’d started as a cleaner. I never saw my mum have a day off sick or complain about hard work. No doubt it’s her work ethic that I’ve inherited.”

While Emma’s mum was around to witness her phenomenal rise to success, she sadly passed away last year. “I’m so glad she got to see that you can make it big in hairdressing though,” reflects the girl who not only became the boss but built a career that has taken her all the way to the very top.

IMAGE CREDITS:

Onyx collection (Afro):

HAIR : Emma Simmons at Salon 54

@emmasimmonshair

PHOTOGRAPHY: Dan Thomas @danthomasphotography

MAKE-UP: Abbi Beautement @abbibooboo

STYLING: Jamie Russell @stylistjjr

ASSISTANTS: Darrel Starkey | Tammy Reynolds | Kay Binnersley

Andromeda collection:

HAIR : Emma Simmons at Salon 54

@emmasimmonshair

PHOTOGRAPHY: Dan Thomas

@danthomasphotography

MAKE-UP: Abbi Beautement @abbibooboo

STYLING: Jamie Russell @stylistjjr

ASSISTANTS: Darrel Starkey | Tammy Reynolds | Kay Binnersley

ten minutes with

WENDY ISLES

By Louise May

Wendy Iles is the internationally acclaimed celebrity hairstylist responsible for creating iconic looks as seen on the world’s most prestigious magazine covers, A-list celebrities and global campaigns for luxury fashion and beauty houses such as Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermès.

Over the course of her 4 decades in the industry, Wendy’s philosophy has always been firmly rooted in hair health. This passion for healthy hair, combined with her tireless quest to find formulas to boost hair recovery, led her to create Iles Formula.

Wendy spent a decade scouring the globe to find powerful ingredient blends and complexes that would provide instant results for her high-profile clientele. What began as an onset hair secret is now available to you all, thanks to the insistence of her celebrity clients.

Wendy continues to juggle an A-list celebrity clientele together with the demands of being the visionary and driving force behind Iles Formula.

HairBiz Editor Louise May chats with Wendy Iles about her career in session styling and her haircare brand, Iles Formula.

Could you share some highlights or memorable moments from your career that have contributed to your success and reputation in the industry?

I’ve been fortunate to have several standout moments in my career. Most certainly, winning the Hollywood Beauty Award for Outstanding Achievement in Hairstyling was a landmark moment. The trophy sits on my desk and I’m forever grateful to Hollywood for the award. And of course, making the decision to officially launch Iles Formula as a haircare brand, at the insistence of my celebrity clients, has been a career highlight too.

How do you approach each session and ensure that your work aligns with the vision of the creative team or the brand you’re working with?

The hairdresser’s seat on an editorial or campaign shoot is a fabulous one. Typically, on an editorial shoot, the whole creative team gathers together to first view the fashion, after which the stylist and photographer will first ask the hairstylist their vision, followed by makeup thereafter. It’s rarely the other way around unless it’s a beauty shoot in which make up may take the lead. Hair can dictate a mood, a feeling, or an era and so it plays a powerful role on set. On an advertising job, there is usually a story board or mood board to follow that is most often shared ahead of time so it’s more about ensuring you are prepared to execute all they ask or need on the day.

Can you tell us about a time when you encountered a particularly demanding or unexpected situation during a session, and how you managed to overcome it?

Yes! Back in the day, I was working on a hair campaign for a major brand when the celebrity turned up 5 hours late. To make matters worse, she insisted she only had 4 hours on set ahead of her flight. So somehow, I managed to accomplish 9 hours work in 4! I’m known for working fast, but that day I was a Mighty Mouse!

How do you stay inspired and constantly push boundaries in your work, while also maintaining your own unique style and signature? Once the creative juices start to flow, they

flow in abundance. Experience helps and of course I love hair so am always, even subconsciously, observing. I love watching young people in cities like London, Tokyo, and Berlin where the hair on the streets is very inspiring. I also pull inspiration from history, museums, galleries and of course, the internet.

What do you believe are the essential qualities and skills required to effectively collaborate and create a cohesive final result?

To work well as a team, it’s all about comradeship amongst the crew - respecting and listening to each team member’s voice and opinion, even down to the most junior assistant. And most importantly, the person in my chair is my priority; to keep them calm, confident, and feeling majestic.

Can you share any insider tips or tricks that you’ve learned throughout your career, which aspiring session stylists can benefit from?

My most avid tip, is to never use traditional styling products such as hairspray. Hairspray is specifically designed to ‘hold’ the hair by blocking its memory and freezing it in place. Once that memory is blocked, a residue is left behind even when the hairspray is brushed out, preventing the hair movement from being as spontaneous as it was before spraying. The only styling product I use are my serums. I have 2 serums, the Finishing Serum with a silk base and the Curl Revive which is similar but with a cashmere texture. When heat activated, both will transform damaged, dry, dull hair back from the dead on the first use to lustrous sumptuous, repaired hair.

Can you share with us the inspiration behind creating the Iles Formula product range and how it differs from other haircare products in the market?

I was travelling the globe doing many of the biggest hair campaigns when one of my main clients, a multinational company who own many of the household name brands decided to introduce a new policy banning hair extensions in all their advertising. It was around this same time that hair models were being replaced by celebrities. Celebrities are chosen for their fame, not the quality of their

hair which most often is tortured and filled with extensions. So having to remove these extensions was a catastrophic moment for me as the stylist entrusted to deliver these multi-million-dollar hair campaigns. However, it turned into a blessing as I spent 3 years and my life savings formulating a revolutionary 3 step system that instantly repairs ALL hair textures from the very first use without depositing residue of any kind. These formulas are unique in their performance and deliver spectacular, soft, nurtured, and repaired hair, which has now become known as the Iles Formula signature finish.

What specific ingredients or blends did you incorporate into the formulas that make them so effective in boosting hair recovery and delivering instant results?

My key ingredients are from the forest floor of the Amazon. Our ingredients are sourced sustainably; natural harvests of pracaxia, and tucuma butter, which are 2 of my favourites, which are then blended with science at the highest level.

How did your celebrity clients insistence on making the formulas available to the public, influence your decision to launch the Iles Formula collection?

Without the insistence of my celebrity clients, I’m not sure Iles Formula would be available to the public today! It was never my plan to be the Founder of a haircare brand. I have enjoyed a very successful career working with some of the biggest stars (who I still work with to this day), and some of the biggest luxury brands too. It was only at my clients’ insistence, that I had started to produce limited edition annual supplies of my signature formulas; the Shampoo, Conditioner and Finishing Serum, intended for their use only. But from there, word soon spread, and it was the call from the Beauty Buyer at Bergdorf Goodman in NYC that changed everything.

How did you source and select the powerful ingredient blends and complexes that form the foundation of Iles Formula?

I grew up in Tasmania, Australia on an opium poppy farm. From a young age, I understood the power of plants. People nowadays

spend their time on Netflix, whereas I google ingredients. I started creating my first formula during my editorial years around 25 years ago. All the images in my Archive II book were created using my number 3, what’s now known as the Finishing Serum. To this day, the formula is very similar however, with the help of a chemist, we’ve elevated the formula even more to offer protection against heat + UV + colour fade + humidity. We managed to do all of that without changing the performance. Let’s also take the Conditioner for example, it’s complicated and complex and very time consuming to produce. To this day, I still test every batch that is produced – wherever I am in the world, I must sign off before it is bottled for retail. It’s the level of quality control that I insist upon.

How does Iles Formula stand out and offer a unique experience for consumers?

Minimalism meets maximum performance. I have never been interested in launching endless new products for the sake of boosting numbers; it’s unnecessary, causes confusion and is wasteful. Formulate less and do it extremely well. Iles Formula is a customer experience with a strong emotional tie. Once you use it, you will never stop because the performance is unbeatable. In fact, the more damaged or distressed the hair, the more spectacular the performance.

How has your extensive experience shaped the development of the Iles Formula product range?

My experience in the industry, working under intense pressure with some of the biggest names and brands in the world has been invaluable in shaping Iles Formula. With experience comes a knowing when touching the hair. I also know the results that many clients expect, and also the challenges that many stylists face. That’s why Iles Formula has had such great successes with many of the leading salons around the world who also recognise the power of these formulas.

www.wendyiles.com

Iles Formula is available in Australia through Rogue Beauty. For stockist information please visit www.roguebeauty.com.au

the

CONFIDENT STYLIST

The world of hair knows the name SHARON BLAIN. She is the QUEEN of styling. An ICON. A global sensation who has stood the test of time. Winning over 500 international awards and changing the world of hairstyling forever.

She’s put all of this knowledge, skill, sheer grit, determination, and passion into one complete awe-inspiring styling bible.

Those who have it in their possession will want to carry it with them wherever and whenever they style hair.

Whether they wish to be the styling star of their salon, have a burning passion for bridal, a real love for red carpet, or they seek the thrill of editorial and avant-garde work.

THE CONFIDENT STYLIST delivers all the gems from Sharon’s 50-plus years of incredible experience and skill, distilled into one comprehensive 228-page book.

Filled with both instructional pictures and breath-taking imagery, this is no ordinary guide.

Sharon covers every fundamental topic, from unpacking the styling foundations, to demystifying the impact of face, body and hair characteristics, the best-in-class tools and products, the science and theory behind exceptional curls, blow-dries, waves and thermal setting, how fashion and history influences hair today, PLUS how she goes about creating her award-winning photographic collections!

Always one to share her knowledge and leave a lasting legacy, Sharon reveals her top secrets, most asked magic hacks, and stepby-step techniques - it’s the ultimate path to creative inspiration to refer to forever.

“It’s been a crazy spectacular ride, and after more than 55 years in the industry, I’m finally ready to share a book so social, it’s been 5 decades in the making!

My hairstyling journey has taken me down many roads. Roads and travels of twists and turns, great moments, challenging moments, incredibly inspiring moments - but most of all I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge I’m so humbled to share with you. The next phase of my journey is ensuring my legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of future stylists. I hope it’s a book you’ll keep and cherish forever, referring back to it time and time again as you grow your skills into THE CONFIDENT STYLIST, I wish you to be”.

Sharon Blain

“Sharon is an icon. She truly is the undisputed queen of styling, and her tips, tricks, and techniques will help anyone levelup their styling game and find the inspiration they need.”

Tabatha Coffey – Hairstylist, Coach, Author & TV Personality

“Sharon has an encyclopaedic knowledge of her craft, a wealth of experience to draw upon, and a peerless level of expertise, technique, and execution. She is without parallel, and this guide will be an indispensable resource. Keep it close by.”

Mark Hayes –International Creative Director, Sassoon

“Sharon dominates the world of hair. Her passion and enthusiasm is second to none and she is respected worldwide. The most amazing figureheads in Hairdressing love her!”

Errol Douglas MBE – Award-winning British Hair Icon

“To the most successful hairdressers globally, Sharon is an extraordinary source of inspiration. I have always known her to strive to raise the standard of education for beginners and experts alike. I hope you enjoy her styling expertise, wisdom, and instruction as much as I have.”

Traci Sakosits – Global Educator and Creative Director

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LumiShine® LUMI10™

This year is a big year for Pierrot’s Hair & Brow Studio. The brand and owner Julie Mahony (Jeffery) has been in business for 40 years, an important milestone that provided the perfect reason for a celebration. With only a couple of months of planning, the Pierrot’s team achieved a successful runway show. The exclusive event was held at the salon’s location in the inner-city suburb of Mouth Lawley, at the premise’s underground parking lot to suit their selected runway show theme, future/ grunge. It was a night to remember for invited past and current employees, VIP guests, family and friends who were treated to a showcase of creative and fantastic hair styling executed by the highly experienced Pierrot’s senior staff members and make-up by their in-house make-up artist. It’s no secret that a night such as this wouldn’t have been made possible without all the help from the community businesses that participated, and the Pierrot’s house models who made this anniversary celebration a reality.

“It was an amazing evening with my team surprising me with video tributes from many of my peers from around Australia. An absolute honour to be recognised by industry people I absolutely admire. I am so proud of our dedicated and loyal team for producing a truly professional event and cannot believe it has been 40 years, but when I see pictures of our journey, I realise it has been a long time. Sometimes a roller coaster ride, hitting incredible highs and lows but that makes us continue to grow,” said owner Julie.

A massive congratulations to Pierrot’s Hair & Brow Studio on so many amazing years of successful business and for executing a striking night enjoyed by those in attendance.

FRESH FACE FOR HUCKLE, THE BARBER

Fresha, the world’s leading marketplace and booking software for the beauty and wellness industry, is excited to announce its recent partnership with London’s premier barbershop, Huckle The Barber. This collaboration will streamline appointment bookings, payment processing, and overall customer experience, allowing Huckle The Barber to continue to set trends and cater to an expanding audience of tastemakers across multiple industries.

With locations in Shoreditch and Holborn, Huckle The Barber is synonymous with unparalleled quality, expert barbers, and impeccable hospitality. The barbershop’s commitment to the perfect blend of tradition and innovation has earned them a stellar reputation within the creative communities of London. With a clear vision of creating a welcoming cultural hub for people to enjoy, Huckle The Barber transcends grooming services to provide a home to live music, creative collaborations, and art exhibitions.

To further elevate the customer experience, Huckle The Barber’s integration of Fresha will provide an all-in-one platform for seamless online appointment booking and management, secure card payment processing, and customer relationship management. The easy-to-use interface and integrated marketing, staffing, inventory, and accounting automation will help ensure Huckle The Barber remains at the forefront of the industry.

Fresha, has transformed the beauty and wellness industry by offering subscription-free, all-in-one business software to over 80,000 partner venues across 120 countries. The platform has quickly become the go-to solution for businesses seeking to streamline operations and enhance the customer experience.

“Working Fresha into our business is going to make my life, and my barbers’ lives, so much easier,” says owner Chris Ward. ”The peace of mind I get knowing Fresha is supporting my business is invaluable, and it allows me to focus on curating the best experience for my clients.”

www.fresha.com

EPRES™ ARRIVES DOWN UNDER!

On the heels of successful launches across the US, UK and in Europe, next generation bond-building haircare brand, epres™, finally arrives down under; accompanied by founder, Dr. Eric Pressly.

Held in the prestigious RAW Anthony Nader salon in Surry Hills, Dr. Pressly and esteemed Australian hair artist Anthony Nader hosted an exclusive launch event, welcoming epres™to the Australian market and showcasing a live demonstration and product education for this incredible new brand .epres™ Founder, Dr. Eric Pressly, first discovered his talent for innovation while pursuing his Ph.D. in materials science, working on everything from developing life-saving

PIERROTS CELEBRATES 40 YEAR MILESTONE WITH RUNWAY SHOW

pharmaceuticals to inventing the bond-building category in haircare.

Now he has created epres™, the future of high-performance haircare. Powered by Pressly’s cutting-edge chemistry, epres™ is dedicated to creating scientifically advanced haircare solutions in patented, professional-grade formulas that are easy to use, easier on the environment—and truly perform. Australia is the first of many stops on Dr. Pressly’s South-East Asia epres™ launch tour. Anthony Nader discussed in length the new epres™ in-salon treatment now available at RAW, which is acid-free and mixes directly into any chemical service, including colouring, bleaching, straightening, and perming without affecting the pH or development time. Nader was particularly impassioned about how the treatment can repair hair in one, simple step without taking valuable time away from hairdressers, maximising salons time management and upsell capabilities, while still providing the premium care clients are to expect.

Bond repair made faster, easier, and better. epres™ is the future of salon and at home hair repair Credible Science, Incredible Results.

For more stockist information contact Dateline Imports P/Lon (02) 9666 361. or visit datelineimports.com.au

SALON LANE CELEBRATES OPENING OF ITS FIRST BRISBANE LOCATION

and oversized windows and skylights that fill the space with an abundance of natural light.

Salon Lane has taken the coworking model so popular in the technology and start-up world and applied it to the hair and beauty industries, providing hairdressers and beauty therapists the freedom and flexibility to be their own bosses. With the opening of its West End location, this new way of working is now available to Brisbane based salon professionals like hairstylist and balayage goddess,

Alandra Flatley, who after spending 17 years working in a salon says “I joined Salon Lane because I was ready to make the change to working for myself. The process of joining has been incredibly easy, super supportive and the new West Village location is stunning.” www.salonlane.com.au

RICHARD KAVANAGH ANNOUNCES BRAND EXPANSION INTO CANADA

Salon Lane’s third site has just opened and marks their first foray outside of Sydney.

Following the success of its Surry Hills and Lower North Shore shared workspace locations, Salon Lane celebrated the grand opening of its first Brisbane location last week in the heart of Brisbane’s West End. Salon Lane West End provides independent hair, beauty, and wellness entrepreneurs with the opportunity to establish or expand their business and better serve their clients within a luxurious and creative environment.

Salon Lane West End is located on the first floor of the Factory 2 building in the thriving West Village retail precinct created by one of Japan’s largest property developers, Sekisui House. From 1928–1996, the Boundary Street spot was home to the Peters Ice Cream Factory, which churned out dairy desserts for seven decades. Salon Lane joins the likes of Harris Farm, Anita’s Gelato, Goodlife Health Club and Soak Bathhouse among many others.

Purpose built to accommodate over 50 hair and beauty professionals all under one roof, the 850 square metre site consists of concierge (front of house), a high-end retail shop, 24 private studios, 13 open workstations, nail lounge, colour bar, client lounge, coffee bar, member lounge, laundry and world-class training and event facilities.

With the feel of a luxury sanctuary, the beautifully restored heritage building features exposed brick walls, polished concrete and timber laminate floors, steel beams, warm wooden accents, an incredible circular open workspace area

Modern Beauty, Canada’s largest professional haircare distributor, has just signed a fiveyear partnership deal with Australian hair tech start-up The Hair. App integrating the tech into Modern Beauty’s backend systems. This expansion and partnership with Modern Beauty into Canada places The Hair App in the hands of 200,000 independent operators and 35,000 salons. Modern Beauty currently boasts over 100 cash and carry wholesale locations and three high-tech warehouses. Canadian hairstylists can now integrate retail sales into their behind-the-chair services, paired with eCommerce using distribution from Modern Beauty. Clients have the option to pick up the recommended products directly from the salon or choose home delivery allowing Modern Beauty to manage fulfillment from their warehouse directly to the client’s address.

The Hair App CEO, Richard Kavanagh, said, ‘‘This expansion into the Canadian market will support salons and independent stylists that want to retail to their clients without the need to hold stock.’’

The Hair App has been supporting Australian salons and stylists since launching into the market in Feb 2023. The overwhelming response from Australian salon businesses has seen exponential growth with more than 1000 Australian subscribers.

www.thehair.app

SHOWPONY ANNOUNCES NEW GLOBAL BRAND AMBASSADORS

Renowned stylist Bel Mills and International award-winning stylist Peter Thomsen have partnered with Showpony Hair Extensions as the brand’s official Global Ambassadors for 2023/24.

Bel Mills is a renowned colourist, stylist, educator, influencer, salon owner and content creator, with a career spanning over 25 years. She knows how to make a statement in the salon and creating mesmerising colours is without a doubt her forte. Owning and operating a set of two Adelaide-based salons named Pipsqueek in Saigon, Bel welcomes individuality, inclusivity, creativity, and wellness to create a new age way for the hair industry. Bel’s colour work and styling sets an industry benchmark, backed by editorial success and working on Australian and New York Fashion Weeks and with models and influencers around the world.

Renowned for his expertise in crafting exquisite blondes and stunning balayage textures, Peter’s signature look elevates effortless beauty to a new level. His exceptional talent has been showcased in various magazines and professional publications, earning him global recognition and acknowledgment for his work. For over 25 years, Peter has successfully led Chelsea Hairdressing, a cutting-edge salon situated in Shell Harbour, New South Wales, while sharing his expertise through hair education programs conducted nationwide and worldwide.

As a Global Brand Ambassador for Showpony, Bel will be working in collaboration with Showpony to bring a creative edge to the brand’s leading hair extension education offerings and Peter will be delivering expert hair extension education, creating beautiful looks on the stage and in the salon to showcase the transformative power of hair extensions.

“I’m excited to partner with Showpony and be aligned with an eco-conscious brand that supplies premium ethically sourced products,” Bel said. “The quality of the hair is always exceptional and a pleasure to work with in the salon.”

“For me, Showpony is more than just hair extensions,” Peter said. “It’s the quality of the hair, it’s the education, and it’s all about building your business within the salon,”

“I‘ve been using Showpony hair in my salon for many years and have found the quality of the hair to be unmatched when it comes to embracing and enhancing beautiful, natural, textured hair.”

Showpony Founder and Global President Stephanie Mason said, “I’m pleased to welcome Bel and Peter to our Global Creative Team and continue to support them in sharing their creative, educational and transformative visions with the industry globally.”

www.showponyaus.com.au

A NEW ERA FOR ALTERNATIVE HAIR BEGINS

Last year was the 40th anniversary of the Alternative Hair Show, marking an incredible achievement in both fund- raising for Leukaemia and Blood Cancer charities and the promotion of artistic hairdressing and global hairdressing teams.

The question Alternative Hair founder, Tony Rizzo, has often asked himself is: “What next?”

How do you move forwards and find the ingredient to appeal to

both the ever-loyal Alternative Hair supporters and today’s new audience? Not an easy decision.

This year, Tony is taking space at Excel, allowing a closer link with Salon International, making it easier for both UK and international visitors to attend the shows. And yes, there will be more than one show: an early show at 4pm on Sunday October 15th and a later one at 7pm.

There is always a theme to the Alternative Hair show, providing inspiration to the artistic teams and setting the ambience. This year’s show goes under the banner: Tapestry, signifying a journey through time, a blending of creative ideas and artistry, demonstrated by the individual presentations coming together as one event.

Tickets for the Alternative Hair Show are available now from: www.alternativehair.org/tickets

FOIL ME AND THE AHC COLLABORATE WITH THE JUJUP COLLECTION.

Inspired by a longstanding appreciation of our Indigenous culture and assisting children’s literacy, Foil Me is honoured and delighted to announce the release of their highly anticipated collection, The Jujup, created in partnership with the Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC), and highly esteemed contemporary Australian Indigenous artist, Sarrita King.

Launched on Monday 26th June, a week before NAIDOC Week (July 2-July 9), this striking collection celebrates the art of Indigenous storytelling through a tale of growth, learning and community.

Blending traditional Indigenous symbolism with a bright, modern colour scheme, The Jujup tells a story of learning through unity and human connection. Captivating and thought-provoking, this collection is sure to encourage conversation in the salon, and beyond.

Featuring a vibrant colour palette of orange, turquoise and pink, The Jujup is a beautiful storytelling masterpiece that promises to entrance and inspire. Available in The Original (12.5cm x 27cm) and The Wide (15cm x 27cm), this breathtaking collection combines Foil Me’s signature embossing and exclusive foil composition for effortless application and high-quality results. Closely translating to ‘beginning’ in Gurindji, The Jujup embodies the notion that sharing traditional and common stories amongst each other is the beginning of literacy no matter what language it is in.

CEO of the AHC, Sandy Chong says, “Working with both Foil Me and Sarrita has been a rewarding experience as Foil Me’s vision and Sarrita’s artistic skills combined with our reach and influence in the hair industry, reveal how powerful collaborations can be in achieving good in the world and providing the opportunity to be involved in giving back to the community.”

For Foil Me’s Co-Owner and Creative Director, Emily Ciardiello, this collection

Foil Me’s Emily Ciardiello with The Jujup

was intended to garner a greater appreciation and understanding of the need for culturally appropriate stories for Indigenous children. For this reason, Foil Me has pledged to donate $1 from every box of The Jujup sold, to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) to make education more accessible across Australia.

The ILF is a national charity working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander remote Communities across Australia. They are Community-led, responding to requests from remote Communities for culturally relevant books, including early learning board books, resources, and programs to support Communicates to create and publish their stories in languages of their choice.

Says Sarrita, “The Jujup artwork is all about learning. When I created this image, I put the child right at the centre with smaller people within to represent family. I’ve also included mentors and elders who really foster that spirit of education and the ability to expand and grow. I’m really proud of this collaboration and I can’t wait to see those funds being given to such an amazing cause.” www.foilme.com.au

FUTURE FX

BaBylissPRO Australia 2023 Education Team kicked off their nation-wide educational program tour with an explosive 2-day event on the south coast of NSW.

Hosted by Hairco and located at Belinda’s Hair Creations salon, esteemed members of the BaBylissPRO team, including Fraser Forsey, Lino D’Adderio, Jimmi Nguyen and Kayne Thomas, hosted FutureFX, a dynamic and educational two-day event filled with techniques, tips, tools, trade secrets and invaluable

learning and practical skills for all attendees.

Divided up into to two vital learning events across two days, day one of the seminar served as a showcase and educational discussion forum, where attendees were treated to watching the BaBylissPRO team perform some of their signature looks and cuts, giving thorough demonstrations while talking through their honed techniques, the BaBylissPRO tools they can’t work without and their personal experiences in their industry and on social media. It was an invaluable night of learning, especially for newcomers to the industry, apprentices, and trainees, being able to watch and understand what it takes to make a truly elite barber in Australia, and internationally; as well as how to thrive in the industry and the importance of developing and maintaining your professional social media. This event was also followed by an intensive Q&A portion, where attendees could ask all members of the BaBylissPRO team their most burning questions.

Day two built off all the incredible information from the previous night, transferring all the attendees’ newfound skills and knowledge, and putting it to work in a hands-on workshop, where education team members worked alongside attendees, providing vital practical lessons, and assisting wherever needed in order to fine tune their work. This seminar provided attendees with real-world skills that can be applying directly to their business, as well as giving them a greater understanding for the BaBylissPRO wide range of tools, introducing them to the most recent innovations by BaBylissPRO, This marks just the beginning of a whirlwind tour around Australia for the BaBylissPRO Education Team.

For additional FutureFX event information, contact Dateline Imports P/L on (02) 9666 3611. For more information on BaBylissPRO, visit datelineimports. com.au, and babylisspro.com.au.

GOLDWELL INTRODUCES TOPCHIC ZERO

Goldwell, a global leader in hair color innovation, is excited to introduce Topchic Zero, the latest addition to the renowned Topchic line of permanent in-salon color. This new, responsibly developed and ammonia- free formula allows stylists and consumers to embrace exceptional color results while feeling confident about their choices.

With an increasing number of consumers seeking sustainable options and lifestyles, Topchic Zero empowers professionals to address the evolving priorities of their clients without compromising on effectiveness or performance.

Goldwell National Ambassador, Alannah Read, agrees with the future color stating, “Looking ahead to the future, being aligned with a brand that is passionate about their environmental footprint, whilst having a strong focus on delivering ammonia-free hair color with incomparable results. Goldwell Topchic Zero is what I choose each and every time.”

Leveraging Goldwell’s nearly 50 years of expertise in hair color innovation and artistry, the Topchic Zero portfolio remains true to its high-performance heritage while offering a wider range of color services. Stylists can confidently embrace this environmentally conscious solution, knowing that it meets the demands of discerning clients who prioritise sustainability without compromising on the exceptional quality that Goldwell is known for.

Developed by color experts for color experts, Topchic Zero delivers:

- Natural, reliable grey coverage – up to 100%

- Natural-looking, even color results with Topchic’s trusted durability

- Smooth and glossy hair with up to 2x more shine2

- A vegan3 formula that contains up to 94% naturally-derived ingredients4

- 27 versatile shade options that allow maximum creativity while maintaining hair’s healthy look and feel www.goldwell.com

Sarrita King with The Jujup foil by Foil Me

BaBylissPRO FutureFX

BaBylissPRO Education Team

ghd have been supporting breast cancer charities globally for 20 years with their annual pink campaign, which has raised more than $23M (USD). The campaign highlights the importance of being breast-aware and self-checking. Locally, they have been supporting the National Breast Cancer Foundation for 19 years, donating over $4.5M AUD to the cause. Committed to raising more funds for their breast cancer charity partners, with every purchase of the new ghd pink limited edition collection, ghd will donate $20 to the charity. For the past three years, ghd have been on a mission to empower young women across the world to start regularly checking their breasts, with our Take Control Now Campaign. This year to raise awareness of the importance of self- check for early diagnosis, ghd have told the real life story of Becksy Silverwood, a professional dancer who was diagnosed with breast cancer at 29 years old. “ghd has been a valuable partner of the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) for 19 years and, in that time, have raised literally millions of dollars for game-changing breast cancer research. Their “take control now” pink product range available this year will continue to raise awareness for breast cancer in young women whilst raising vital funds for breast cancer research. As NBCF is entirely community funded, we rely on the generosity of corporate partners like ghd to fund world-class breast cancer research towards our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.” ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR CLEOLA ANDERIESZ, NBCF CEO

GHD PINK LIMITED EDITION COLLECTION Features a soft pink peach shade, the new limited edition products and soft touch zip bags are embossed with the campaign messaging ‘TAKE CONTROL NOW’, to remind users to self-check their breasts on a regular basis.

$20 WILL BE DONATED FROM EVERY PINK PRODUCT PURCHASED www.ghdhair.com/au/

KEEP YOUR CLIENTS COMING BACK

themselves onto your wait list if you’re fully booked (which you will be once you start using Timely!)

With Timely, you’ve still got full control over how your customers book online. And with clever settings like ‘Minimise gaps’ you can ensure clients will only be able to book slots that will fill up your calendar without any awkward and costly gaps - giving you better time management and making you more money.

Our payments solution, TimelyPay, works together with Timely to make taking payments and managing your cashflow so much easier. Everything from collecting deposits and cancellation fees online, to taking payments in-salon, works better with TimelyPay. And because TimelyPay works hand-in-hand with Timely, there’s no room for error. End-of-day cash ups are a breeze and payments can be in your bank account as fast as the next working day.

TimelyPay terminals are the latest addition to the Timely family and help you deliver a slick and professional checkout experience for your clients.

As your salon grows, so can your to-*-do list. Timely helps you handle all those tasks like appointment reminders, consultation forms, follow ups and rebooking - freeing you up to focus on your business instead of being caught in the detail of the everyday.

We’ll help you deliver an amazing client experience from start to finish. Our powerful marketing tools make it easy to build your brand. And with Timely reports, you’ll have a clear overview of what’s going on in your business, helping you to make confident, informed decisions.

Find out more at gettimely.com and try Timely for free for 14 days.

STEVE LA BELLA, ESTEEMED FOUNDER OF BLOW! IT’S A HAIR THING IN ADELAIDE, REMEMBERED AS A PASSIONATE INDUSTRY MENTOR

In a tragic loss for the hair industry, we mourn the passing of Steve La Bella, the visionary founder of Blow! It’s A Hair Thing in Adelaide. The news of his departure has left the community deeply saddened, as we reflect on the profound impact he made throughout his career.

Steve La Bella’s unwavering dedication and passion for the industry served as an inspiration to many. He not only excelled in his craft but also actively nurtured and mentored countless individuals, sharing his valuable knowledge and expertise. His willingness to support and guide the next generation of hairstylists became his trademark, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Steve La Bella was known for his kind-hearted nature and beautiful soul. His legacy will continue to shine brightly through the lives of those he touched and influenced. The void left by his absence will be keenly felt by the many lives he touched, as his warmth and wisdom provided a guiding light.

Take

beautiful system that works alongside you to help with your bookings, admin, payments, stock, and business reports.

Make your life easier and empower your clients to book online from your website and even through your Facebook and Instagram pages. This enables them to choose the time they want, the therapist they prefer and even to pop

During this difficult time, our heartfelt condolences go out to Dion La Bella, Steve’s entire family, and all those who were fortunate enough to love and be loved by him. The loss of Steve La Bella serves as a poignant reminder that life can be too short, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, we celebrate his lasting contributions to the hair industry and the profound impact he had on the lives of countless individuals. Vale, Steve La Bella—your legacy will endure.

the hard work out of managing your salon with one simple,

Infused with powerful antioxidants and cutting-edge bondbuilding technology, R+Color delivers stunning results with long lasting colour that’s true-to-tone. The clean, vegan formulas nourish hair from within and protect the scalp.

Free from Parabens, Resorcinol, Gluten, Silicone, PPD, Fragrance, Mineral Oil*, Ammonia** Choose R+Color and discover a world of limitless possibilities for your clients. Available exclusively at Rogue Beauty.

Hair Icons Celebrate Best of the Best at the Annual

Monday 12th June saw Australia’s leading creatives joining together at The Star, Sydney for the annual Australian Hair Industry Award’s Creative 2023 gala awards evening. With 22 industry awards presented, Brisbane’s Justin Pace, of acclaimed salon Co and Pace, took out the big one as AHIA Australian Hairdresser of the Year 2023. Launched in 2012 by esteemed trade visionaries Mocha Group, the AHIA’s are celebrating their 12th year as the trusted national award platform which provides a benchmark of excellence across both specialist and individual Educational and Business categories and the third year that the Creative categories have been given their own awards program.

Held on the last night of the Iconic Kings birthday weekend where the hair industry is celebrated, the extravagant gala evening saw Australia’s most talented hairdressers and their salon teams honoured as the awards were announced. There was also a very special inductee to the AHIA Dennis Langford Hall of Fame with New Zealand hairdressing icon Danny Pato recognised for his impact on the industry.

The evening was MC’d by resident Mocha Group host, Will Fennell, with an explosive and immersive performance piece inspired by Revlon Professional’s Bloom Collection of colours, shining a spotlight on heavenly hues, while merging digital, nature and a whole new rebellious spirit. Coupled with Amazing Hair extensions, ‘Bloom & BOOM’ toasted the extraordinary colours of fascinating flora and fauna while highlighting the rocking, brand new energy that fresh and creative colour palettes provide. A custom contemporary, digitalised rock soundtrack with live musicians added an additional layer of vibrancy and impact to the runway.

Owner/Publisher Linda Woodhead was thrilled for all of the winners;

“The Creative AHIA’s continue to go from strength to strength, solidifying them as the premium hair industry awards platform highlighting the quality of the industry’s editorial and trend focused skills. The photographic collections that were presented this year have demonstrated to each of the winner’s clients and communities just how incredibly talented they are. Yet again when in front of some of the biggest icons on the global stage, Australian hairdressers have proven just how competitive they truly are.”

AHIA’s Creative partnered with the best names and brands in the industry to bring the evening together including brand partners Revlon Professional, O&M, Silver Bullet, Wahl Professional, Amazing Hair and Parlux. Entries this year were judged by 37 International Hair Icons, 14 International Hair Media and 6 Australian Media and Industry Experts including Sally Brooks, Akin Konizi, Angelo Seminara, Sam McKnight, Hooker and Young, Errol Douglas and Vivienne MacKinder, as well as Trade and Consumer Media including Charlotte Grant West, Editor of HJI, Sergi Bancells, Editor of Esthetica and Christina Butcher of Hair Romance.

The evening also saw the announcement of the much-anticipated HOTSHOTS team for 2023, putting a spotlight on the industry’s most exciting next-gen talent and providing the chance for these 31 and under superstars to take their career to a whole new level. This crew were judged by familiar faces including Dee Parker-Attwood, Jayne Wild, Benni Tognini, Stevie English, Sharon Blain and Brad Ngata.

2023 AHIA CREATIVE

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

Stella Wrigley, Jack Horton Hair

MASTER CUTTER OF THE YEAR

Shae Tsiknaris, Tsiknaris Hair

INDEPENDENT STYLIST OF THE YEAR

Domi Pinalli, Domi Pinalli Hair

AVANT GARDE HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Jude McEwen, Toni and Guy Perth Central

NEW CREATIVE TALENT OF THE YEAR

Anne Russell, Sloans of Lane Cove

CREATIVE TEAM OF THE YEAR

Sloans Creative Team

COLOUR EXPERT OF THE YEAR

Stevie Corthine, Stevie English Hair

MEN’S HAIR SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR

Naser, Naser Haircuts

PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION OF THE YEAR

Bill Tsiknaris, Tsiknaris Hair

BTS DREAM TEAM OF THE YEAR

For Nathan Yazbek

Photography: Andrew O’Toole. Make-up: Chereine Waddell. Styling: Catherine V.

NSW/ACT HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Nathan Yazbek, Salon Yazbek

VIC HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Bernadette Beswick, Beswick Education Services

WA/NT HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Naser, Naser Haircuts

QLD HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Fabian Fuentes, Jack Horton Hair

SA/TAS HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Luke Munn, Havachat Barbershop

INTERNATIONAL HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Mark Leeson

HOT SHOTS TEAM

Anne Russell, Sloans of Lane Cove

Meghan King, Sloans of North Sydney

Mikelah Jayde Riley, Mikelah Jayde Studio

Paige Cameron, Cobelle Creative

NEW ZEALAND HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Danny Pato, D&M Hair Design

AUSTRALIAN HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Justin Pace, Co and Pace Salons

2023 AHIA DENNIS LANGFORD HALL OF FAME

Danny Pato, D&M Hair Design

IMPORTANT DATES.

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED 21 ST AUGUST 2023

GALA NIGHT 24 TH SEPTEMBER 2023

INCLUDES 3 COURSE A LA CARTE DINNER

& 4 HOUR DRINK PACKAGE!

1-5 TICKETS $275 EACH

6-9 TICKETS $350 EACH

10+ TICKETS $325 EACH

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

As a former full-time ballet dancer Stella has always expressed herself creatively through movement and the process of creating a ‘character’ through physical appearance before the creative world of hairdressing beckoned. Since joining Jack Horton Hair in November 2021, Stella has been an integral part of the exceptional culture of this salon and team. In late 2022, she was officially asked to be a member of the acclaimed JHH Artistic Team who were awarded 2023 Top 3 for Best International Artistic Team Of The Year for the International Hairdressing Awards. She was also unanimously voted as the team member who most upheld the JHH core values: happy, humble, holistic and honest.

MASTER CUTTER OF THE YEAR Shae

Director Stylist Shae has been in the industry for over 20 years and is known for her expertise with both cutting and straightening, with precision unlike any other stylist! Working out of Tsiknaris Hair, this is a family affair with Shae working alongside her acclaimed hairdressing Brother in Law, Bill Tsiknaris. Together they are a Brisbane based hairdressing powerhouse, creating trend focused looks and styles for New Farm’s who’s who.

INDEPENDENT STYLIST OF THE YEAR Domi

Domi is a multi award-winning Cairns stylist working out of an exquisite space in the heart of the city. A Master Colourist with Alfaparf Milano she educates nationally along with being on the Artistic Team for Colortrak Australia and also a Master Extensionist with Amazing Hair. Having been in the industry for nearly 20 years she’s honed her skills by working alongside the industry’s greatest artists, managing salons and completing numerous amounts of continued education. Also the Affinage Colour Competition 2022 WINNER, her approach and understanding of hair and client journey is like no other.

Stella Wrigley, Jack Horton Hair

Pinalli, Domi Pinalli Hair

Tsiknaris, Tsiknaris Hair

We take a look at all of the 2023 AHIA Creative Winners with a special insight into what makes them tick!

OF THE YEAR

From pursuing a career in hairdressing at the age of 15, Jude has come an incredibly long way. Having educated herself through the esteemed TONI&GUY Oxford Street Academy in London, and now with over 20 years experience she has worked her way up through the education structure of Toni&Guy International to come an award-winning trifecta of Salon Owner, Artistic Director and National Educator as well as Label.M Product Ambassador. As the leading number one salon in the TONI&GUY Australia franchise. TONI&GUY Perth Central is located down trendy Wolf Lane, situated close to the fashionable enclave of King Street in the very heart of Perth and is known for creating some of the best colour work in WA.

NEW CREATIVE TALENT OF THE YEAR

Anne joined the Sloans team back in 2019 as Junior Stylist, fresh from a move from her hometown of Wagga Wagga. Mentored by Sloans Owner and Director Scott Sloan, also a Wagga Wagga hometown local, she has thrived. Now a Senior Stylist she is a key part of the Sloans Creative Team and consistently assists on editorial shoots and campaigns as well as working with her loyal North Shore clientele. Most recently she was proud to represent Australia in the WorldSkills competition, competing in the regional competition and winning gold, before taking out silver in the national competition in 2021.

CREATIVE TEAM OF THE YEAR Sloans Creative Team

The Sloans group consists of Lane Cove, as well as a second salon, Sloans of North Sydney, with a total of 27 dedicated professionals across the north shore. The vibrant and eclectic team channel a fashion forward vibe onto the salon floor yet remain approachable and relatable for the diverse local clientele. Renowned throughout the industry for their impressive work, Sloans have been awarded countless accolades including AHFA NSW/ACT Hairdresser of the Year 2021 Winner, AHFA Creative Team of the Year 2021 Winner, AHIA State Business of the Year NSW/ACT 2021 Finalist and AHIA Australian Salon of the Year 2019 Winner.

COLOUR EXPERT OF THE YEAR Stevie Corthine, Stevie English Hair

Stevie needs little introduction to those who appreciate the power of a great cut, colour and style and has been manning his Glebe salon, Stevie English Hair, since 2007 alongside his talented team. Dedicated to driving green innovation, they were the first salon in the world to use the acclaimed evo hue.verse colour. Now the Global Colour Creative Director for evo, he inspires those both in the salon as well as the global community as an exciting and engaging national and international educator. He is not stranger to awards having taken out this gong three years in a row, on top of a veritable trophy cabinet of accolades.

Anne Russell, Sloans of Lane Cove

AVANT GARDE HAIRDRESSER

Jude McEwen, Toni and Guy Perth Central

MEN’S HAIR SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR & WA/NT HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Naser, Naser Haircuts

Nasar is a highly motivated and creative individual who is passionate about hair designs and men’s grooming. He has gained a vast amount of knowledge from his working experience in Jordan, America and Australia and is now a successful owner of two barber shops. He first opened his Jandakot outpost Naser Haircuts in 2013 followed by South Lakes in 2017. His creativity and insight into innovative haircuts and styling, including kids cuts, is unparalleled and he is a true hair design artist with an exceptional eye for detail.

BTS DREAM TEAM OF THE YEAR For Nathan Yazbek’s NSW/ACT hairdresser of the Year Collection. Photography: Andrew O’Toole. Make-up: Chereine Waddell. Styling: Catherine V.

This year for the first time in the history of Australian Creative awards, we celebrated, recognised and honoured the Behind the Scenes Team that help put all of the amazing collections together. The role of the Photographer, Make Up artist and Stylist is integral to bringing a vision to life, and entrants were invited to nominate their BTS Dream team from a 2023 AHIA collection. Judges were asked to rank based on these 3 key elements only, all of which have a sole purpose to compliment the vision and the hair in the collection.

NSW/ACT

Nathan created the stunning Salon Yazbek salon in Neutral Bay over 10 years ago and not only does he create beautiful hair, provide excellent customer service and a fantastic experience, he also leads the industry in the benefits of an ecoluxe approach to business. With an estimated 6 out of 10 Australians now looking for environmentally preferable products the need for this is only increasing, particularly among North Shore clientele. Working alongside Aveda as a brand Ambassador he is inspiring other salons to make the switch whilst providing clients with professional results whilst helping the environment and having a positive impact on sustainability. Winners of the 2012 Australian Small Business Champion Awards – Most Outstanding New Business, they also have several industry accolades under their belts.

HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Nathan Yazbek, Salon Yazbek

VIC

OF THE YEAR

Based in Mt Martha, Bernadette is a truly unique hairdresser given her 35 years experience and dual roles as Salon Owner and Stylist at Bezaboo Hairdressing as well as leading industry educator through Beswick Education. Bezaboo Hairdressing is a boutique salon which focuses on delivering her skills as a cutting expert, color specialist and styling maestro all while putting her education principles to work. Her renowned education offering Beswick Education is an esteemed organization which offers a mix of online and face to face training courses as well as free resources aimed at keeping this industry thriving in good times and bad, teaching everyone from apprentices to experienced hairdressers. Her skills have most likely transformed your last great trip to the hairdresser, such is her phenomenal reach!

QLD

OF THE YEAR

In the industry for 20 years, Fabian is the co-owner and Artistic Director of Jack Horton Hair. Recently he has led the team to some huge successes including winning AHIA Creative Team of the Year 2022, AHIA Business Salon Team of the Year 2022 and three Finalists for International Artistic Team of the Year for the International Hairdressing Awards. He has also been making his mark with the Wella Artistic Team facilitating classes around Queensland, Western Australia and online as well as the brand Educator for Colortrak Australia.

OF THE YEAR

Luke has worked with multiple brands as an educator allowing him to spend a large chunk of time traveling all over Australia to teach and mentor. He is passionate about helping others believe in their abilities so that they can create amazing collections of work and be the best version of themselves, ultimately giving back to their clients. Being a salon owner operator, his two chair studio environment and culture is super important to him with clients being the number 1 most priority. He is already planning a new education platform to bring to the industry and his creative ability in his winning collection showed powerful styling, fusing multiple aspects of hair to create bold shapes and movement.

INTERNATIONAL HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Mark

Mark Leeson is one of the most prolific hairdressers in the world with a career spanning over 35 years. His exceptional talent has led to him also scooping the acclaimed British Hairdresser of the Year Award in 2014 amongst many other awards for him and his team. Today he trains and showcases his work all around the world. Guests can experience the Mark Leeson magic in one of two luxurious salons at Mansfield and Chesterfield in the UK for the ultimate in top-to-toe treatments and incredible hair

SA/TAS HAIRDRESSER

Luke Munn, Havachat Barbershop

HAIRDRESSER

Fabian Fuentes, Jack Horton Hair

Leeson

HAIRDRESSER

Bernadette Beswick, Beswick Education Services

Collected by Brad Raper-GM Revlon Professional

PEOPLE’S CHOICE PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION OF THE YEAR

This category allows attendees to Hair Festival to vote on their favourite category by QR code from collections displayed at the AHIA Gallery. Drawn from futuristic and high-tech themes, inspired by science fiction and advancements in technology, this collection was created in a time that is so relevant. It explores the fusion of human and machine, incorporating elements of robotics, cybernetics, and bionics into the hair styling, makeup, and fashion. The goal, says Bill, was to push the boundaries of traditional hairdressing and explore new and innovative techniques and designs, while also creating a strong visual impact that evokes the futuristic and high-tech themes.

A key highlight at the AHIA Creative was the announcement of the much-anticipated HOTSHOTS team for 2023, putting a spotlight on the industry’s most exciting next-gen talent and providing the chance for these 31 and under superstars to take their career to a whole new level. Judges look for hairdressers who excel in the areas of cutting, styling, editorial and colour work, have a unique style, unparalleled passion and a clear vision of the future. This crew were judged by familiar faces including Dee Parker-Attwood, Jayne Wild, Benni Tognini, Stevie English, Kobi Bokshish, Sharon Blain and Brad Ngata.

NEW ZEALAND HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Danny Pato, D&M Hair Design

Co-Founder and Creative Director of D&M Hair Design, Danny Pato grew up in Greece with five sisters, the very women who sparked his passion for hairdressing. That passion has taken him all over the world and seen him recognised as one of the most awarded hairdressers in the industry. Indeed, the D&M team are proud to have been consistently recognised as the top salon team in the country since first opening more than 15 years ago. The combination of unique cultures, specialty skill sets and creative passions is what defines them, alongside their comprehensive in-house training program focused on international trends and techniques. Today, Danny works full-time on the salon floor, and juggles training his team, doing fashion editorials, writing industry commentary and adding to his trophies for Hair Expo NZ Hairdresser of the Year 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, AIPP International Trophy 2020 and top-three finalist for International Hairdresser of the Year 2020.

AUSTRALIAN HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Justin is a master colourist, cutter and stylist with three decades’ experience working on his craft. He combines a consummate command of technical dexterity with artistic finesse and his work has appeared in an abundance of media platforms internationally and nationally including Estetica Magazine, Salon Magazine, Focus on Hair, Colour World, Friseur, Fashion Weekly Magazine, Instyle Magazine and Style Magazines. He brings to the fore not only his flair for the innovative side of hairdressing, but close to two decades’ experience running three companies: Co and Pace Salons, Heroes and Villains Barbers, and Papas and Pace Advanced Hairdressing. In life, Justin attributes the single-mindedness he possesses to being diagnosed with cancer as a child the four-year battle he faced. As a consequence of treatment, he attained skills he otherwise wouldn’t have had to develop and this shaped the person Justin is today.

HOT SHOTS TEAM Anne Russell, Sloans of Lane Cove - Meghan King, Sloans of North Sydney - Mikelah Jayde Riley, Mikelah Jayde Studio - Paige Cameron, Cobelle Creative

Justin Pace, Co and Pace Salons

Bill Tsiknaris – Avant Garde Collection

GENERAL ENTRY DEADLINE 21st Aug ‘23

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED 18th Sept ‘23

GALA AWARDS NIGHT 5th November ‘23 The Plaza Ballroom, Melbourne

AMBA 2023 CATEGORIES.

PHOTOGRAPHIC AND BUSINESS CATEGORIES

Australian Modern Barber of the Year

Australian Modern Barber Business of the Year

PHOTOGRAPHIC CATEGORIES

Best Barber Collection Junior

Best Barber Collection Classic

Best Barber Collection Freestyle

Best Barber Team Collection

BUSINESS CATEGORIES

Best Director/Owner of the Year

Best Customer Care

Best Men’s Educator of the Year (Individual)

Best Men’s Educator of the Year (Organisation)

Best Barbershop Design of the Year

SPECIAL CATEGORY

International Modern Barber of the Year

NOMINATED CATEGORIES Special Recognition & Hall of Fame

PLUS

Gala Awards Night 5th November 2023. The Plaza Ballroom, Melbourne

ENTRY INFO AND TICKETS www.mochagroup.com.au

HOT SHOTS TEAM Meet the 2023

MEGHAN KING - SLOANS OF NORTH SYDNEY, NSW

ANNE RUSSELL - SLOANS OF LANE COVE, NSW

A key highlight at the AHIA CREATIVE was the announcement of the much-anticipated HOTSHOTS team for 2023, putting a spotlight on the industry’s most exciting next-gen talent and providing the chance for these young superstars to take their career to a whole new level.

With a prize pool worth in excess of $25,000, the 2023 team was announced by sponsors

Anne Russell - Sloans of Lane Cove, NSW

Meghan King - Sloans of North Sydney, NSW Mikelah Jayde Riley - Mikelah Jayde Studio, WA

Paige Cameron - Cobelle Creative, QLD

Prizes include a full styling kit by Joico, scissor kit by Excellent Edges, Extension Kit by Amazing Hair, Clipper set by Wahl Professional and a surprise gift from Timely, not to mention a 3 day stay in the Hot Shots house and a photo shoot with Andrew O’Toole!

Anne Russell joined the Sloans team back in 2019 as Junior Stylist, fresh from a move from her hometown of Wagga Wagga. Mentored by Sloans Owner and Director Scott Sloan, she has thrived. Now a Senior Stylist she is a key part of the Sloans Creative Team and consistently assists on editorial shoots and campaigns as well as working with her loyal North Shore clientele. Most recently she was proud to represent Australia in the WorldSkills competition, competing in the regional competition and winning gold, before taking out silver in the national competition in 2021. Meghan King is a Senior Stylist at Sloans of North Sydney and is obsessed with the science of colour. She is driven by a goal to mentor others, yet still years to learn. She already has quite a few accolades on her belt and continues to explore all aspects of the industry. She is always keen to work with challenging concepts and play with movement and colour. As part of the Sloans Creative Team she has worked on amazing shoots including the winning AHIA Creative Team of the Year 2023 collection.

Mikelah Jayde Riley is a salon owner who literally takes on every opportunity for growth that she can. AS a colour educator with Joico, she loves the science, counteracting colours, pigments and always trying something new. She has a passion and enthusiasm that makes her stand out in a crowd, interpreting and re-imagining trends, is a savvy business woman, innovative and fun! Inspired by the likes of Vivienne Westwood, McQueen and Peaches and Pixie Geldoff she also leads her team with the mantra of, think about the solution and not the problem.

Australian apprentice of the year 2021 and finalist for new creative talent and hotshots 2022 Paige Cameron found the motivation to perfect her craft which has allowed her to be published worldwide including Turkey, Germany, Poland, Asia and South Africa. She is a lover of Avant Garde work where she can apply innovative approaches to hair. She is part of the well-known team at Cobelle Creative mentored by owner Kristie Kesic who promotes a culture of collaboration which inspires Paige to one day be someone else’s idol and inspire future hairdressers just like her idols inspire her.

MIKELAH JAYDE RILEY - MIKELAH JAYDE STUDIO, WA

PAIGE CAMERON - COBELLE CREATIVE, QLD

AHIA 2023 Dennis

Langford Hall of Fame

Inductee & NZ Hairdresser of the Year

DANNY PATO

Announced at the recent AHIA Creative Gala by Sara, Jackson and Thomas Langford and inducted into the AHIA Dennis Langford Hall of Fame was this year’s recipient, Danny Pato.

And in a double whammy, he also took out for the 3rd consecutive year the AHIA NZ Hairdresser of the Year award.

Danny was born in Greece and grew up around the Mediterranean and Middle East. His childhood was filled with strong women, whose regular visits to glamorous salons in Beirut, Athens and Baghdad ignited his lifelong love affair with hair.

When he moved to New Zealand in the 90s, he started his career doing what he loves and hasn’t looked back since. In 2006, he and best friend Michael joined forced to create D&M Hair Design, a celebration of culture, excellence and vibrancy in Auckland’s Ponsonby.

On the salon floor, where he continues to work full time, he is known for his precise, tailored looks, famous for chic bobs, effortless tousles, and seamless colours.

He is a Davines International Artist and has been New Zealand Ambassador for Davines Sustainable Beauty for more than a decade and his work as a platform artist has seen him on stage in Europe, Asia and Australia.

He is dedicated to raising the profile of our industry and has launched many philanthropic endeavours including raising $27,000 for KidsCan by auctioning prints of his work.

Danny is one of the most highly regarded hairdressers of our time, having won New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year consecutively for six years, and numerous international accolades including two AIPPs and two International Hairdresser of the Year awards.

He is a Two-time winner of International Hairdresser of the Year Contessa Canadian Hairdressing Awards 2021, and Figaro Spanish Hairdressing Awards 2021. A Two-time AIPP Winner and winner of the 2022 International Hair Shot of the Year for the Fellowship for British Hairdressers.

Danny Pato as a true visionary and image maker; a storyteller, creating strong characters in strange worlds that are truly original…. And we now on top of his many award accolades, quite rightly he has also been honoured as the 2023 AHIA Dennis Langford Hall of Fame recipient.

You could help save a life.

Learn to spot a suspicious spot.

90% of melanomas can be successfully treated if caught early. As a hairdresser, you’re in a unique position to spot a suspicious spot in hard-to-see places. That’s why TAFE NSW has partnered with experts at the Australian Melanoma Research Foundation, Hair and Beauty Australia, Keune and Airyday to deliver an online 45-minute Microskill to help you recognise suspicious skin spots that could help save a life. Enrol now in the 'Spot a Spot' Microskill course. tafensw.edu.au/spot-a-spot

Proud Partners:

BLOOM BOOM

2023 AHIA CREATIVE opening showcase

At the 2023 AHIA Creative Gala, Revlon Professional’s Bloom Collection of colours was showcased in an opening show which shined a spotlight on heavenly hues, while merging digital, nature and a whole new rebellious spirit. Coupled with Amazing Hair extensions, ‘Bloom & BOOM’ toasted the extraordinary colours of fascinating flora and fauna while highlighting the rocking, brand new energy that fresh and creative colour palettes provide.

Photographer, Amber Toms, took to back stage to create a stunning collection pre show to capture the beauty of the hair and fashion combined.

HAIR BY REVLON PROFESSIONAL

Hair Director: Geoffrey Herberg

Lead Hair Stylists: Uros Mikic, Sanja Scher, Stephanie Bacelic and Paula Hibbard

Hair Team: Revlon Professional Education and Artistic Team

Photography by Amber Toms

Hair Extensions by Amazing Hair

Styling by Cosmopolitan Shoes

Show Direction by Adam Williams 2023 AHIA Creative Show © mocha group

Hair Festival 2023 Takes Over Sydney In Second Instalment!

Hair Festival 2023 welcomed thousands of hairdressers through the doors of Carriageworks in Sydney. The second annual outing over the June long weekend elevated last year’s launch, with a large, engaged crowd of attendees ready to shop, learn, compete and connect.

“It was an unreal event, from every angle,” said Craig Hawtin-Butcher, managing director of BHA Media and publisher of INSTYLE and styleicons.com.au, organisers of Hair Festival. “Over 4700 leading lights from the industry joined us across two action-packed days and one huge evening. The venue was heaving, stands were incredibly busy, and it was great to see the vast majority of the industry represented on the show floor, in the education sessions, our business forum and the Wonderland party. In just our second year, it couldn’t have been bigger or better. I’d just like to thank everyone who came, spoke, educated, judged or partied – you make Hair Festival what it is, we do our best to make it happen for you and we’re honoured that you came.”

The MarketPlace was the sprawling oasis that greeted the lines outside over the two full days of shopping opportunities. From the Business Hub to the Barber Hub and beyond, attendees wound around the maze of stands to gain the latest in everything from products in every specific category to tools, hair extensions, business and technology updates, charity initiatives, men’s hair expertise, salon furniture and so much more. Food trucks and coffee carts lined the space, as attendees networked at the hubs or found their latest purchase. Hair demos, model looks and even a book signing from Sharon Blain added to the excitement.

A favourite this year, once again, was the AHIA Creative Gallery, showcasing the 2023 finalist collections and ability to vote for the people’s choice photographic collection of the year. Owned by the mocha group, publishers of HAIRBIZ, the AHIA Creative is now in its 3rd year with both intermedia and mocha proudly supporting each other over this iconic hair weekend.

The REALtalk Business Forum kicked off the proceedings on Sunday morning with a pivotal overarching theme of self-care, as keynote speakers, headlined by global futurist Anders Sörman-Nilsson, and panel discussions traversed conversations that truly matter, around topics of technology, sustainability and mental health. Vital personal takeaways showcased the inner connectivity in business, ensuring salon owners went back to their teams with relevant teachings, a forwardthinking approach and significant reminders to build better habits both in and out of the salon.

Education filled three spaces all weekend long, giving attendees the opportunity to learn about colour, cut, style and so much more from leading brands and educators, as well a choice of as hands-on workshops, business discussions, barbering sessions and beyond. Sold out crowds filled the rooms, asking questions, snapping content and showcasing how education and growth continues to be the backbone of the hairdressing community.

“It’s been amazing this year, I couldn’t believe the hype and the buzz, there were so many people here with such good energy,” said industry leader Richard Kavanagh. “I was blown away by how many people were here and how keen they were for education, information and new knowledge and just really being a part of it. I think the energy from all of the exhibitors has been cool, it’s been really nice to see everything that everybody’s up to but, more than that, I’m so impressed with the energy of the hairdressers coming in, experiencing the MarketPlace and going to the education sessions. People are just pumped.”

The Wonderland party took over Sydney’s Establishment Bar with a fittingly titular theme. Giant mushrooms, flowers and glitter walls took over the room as glowing Gaga dancers, dancing human disco balls and neon performers put on a show and mingled with

the crowd. An open bar, live band and DJ, 360 degree photobooth and delicious food options – the bao station remains a highlight – ensured a night to celebrate, dance and party as the industry deserves.

The competitions saw a packed room of attendees ready to watch live hair creations and runway presentations across extended categories of men’s hair, women’s street and editorial hair, colour, bob styling and colour. Putting true hair art across the stage, the competitions awarded the inimitable Hair Festival Trophy to a bevy of talented competitors and kept the flame of live hair competitions burning bright to close out the event.

Sustainability was an essential component of Hair Festival, as the event partnered with Sustainable Salons in its event practices and delivered education on this essential salon component at REALtalk and the Sustainable Salons stand.

“It’s really great to see Hair Festival’s support of sustainability across its whole network, that’s really important to building a sustainable salon future,” said Paul Frasca of Sustainable Salons. “Without these events here, when do you ever get that face time now with a person where you can actually explain what you do? Face to face is still very important, and it’s nice every year to have this opportunity. We’ve had our biggest ever year of leads come through for more people wanting to sign up to sustainability, so we can’t thank Hair Festival enough for not only helping us be part of their experience but also implementing it within their environment.”

Hair Festival will return for another unmissable instalment in 2024.

For more information visit www.hairfestival.com.au

2 Days of Education, Leadership, and Networking with The AHC

By Anthony Gray & Louise May

The chilly Hair Festival long weekend in Sydney, Australia, became the backdrop for a remarkable showcase of collaboration, education, and networking in the hairdressing industry. The Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC) orchestrated two highly anticipated events, starting with the Industry Day on Friday, followed by the Leadership Summit and Schmoozefest on Saturday. These back-to-back events brought together industry professionals from all corners of Australia and beyond, offering a wealth of knowledge and opportunities for growth.

Industry Day, held at the prestigious Hyatt in Sydney, marked a significant milestone as it celebrated its ninth year of existence. Unparalleled in its reach and influence, Industry Day is the sole industry event that unites educators from across the hairdressing landscape. With representatives from various sectors, including salon owners, in-salon educators, company and supplier educators, independent industry educators, and RTO management and teachers from TAFE and private providers, the event created a vibrant atmosphere of collaboration and shared expertise.

Sponsored by esteemed organizations such as Sustainable Salons, Colour Me Safe, Pivot Point, Foil Me, Showpony, Timely, and Elite Hair Education, Industry Day revolved around the theme of “A Global Perspective and The Future of Education.” The hair industry is facing an urgent need for talented individuals, prompting a call to attract, develop, and retain new hairdressers and barbers. To achieve this, participants explored global best practices while considering national initiatives.

The day featured an impressive line-up of speakers who delivered captivating presentations and thought-provoking insights. Lee Xavier from Australian Apprenticeship Support provided an overview of the apprenticeship landscape, highlighting its current state and future prospects. Keynote speaker Antony Whitaker, renowned for his expertise in growing salon businesses, offered a global perspective on the state of hair education worldwide. He challenged attendees to embrace the opportunities and navigate the future of education in the digital age.

Amidst the anticipation of significant changes in Australia’s skills management landscape, Paul Zahra from the Australian Retailers Association joined Sandy Chong and other panelists for a discussion on the SkillsEQuipped initiative. This initiative aims to address the emerging skills needs and workforce challenges in related industries, including retail, personal services, hospitality, tourism, and the arts. Collaboration among industry stakeholders, governments, and unions was highlighted as crucial for successful vocational training outcomes.

Engaging panels featuring leading hair industry figures examined training adaptation to industry needs and the future of salon education. Notable panelists included Gary Strachan, Deadly Hair Dude NT; Kylie Dwyer, Elite Hair Education; Cathy King, Toni&Guy Australia; Megan Evans, In Awe Education; Brodie-Lee Tsiknaris, Rokstar; and Pete Koziell, Analog Hair. These discussions fostered lively exchanges and facilitated the exploration of innovative approaches to training and education.

Throughout the day, participants attended interactive workshops that consolidated the key messages shared by the speakers and panel guests. These sessions sparked conversations and provided an opportunity for attendees to strategize and plan for real change in their respective education and training businesses. The insights and learnings from Industry Day will inform the AHC’s advocacy work in education and training reform, helping shape the future of hair education in Australia.

In a touching moment, Sandy Chong, CEO of AHC, paid tribute to industry icon Sharon Blain, recognizing her exceptional

contributions to the art of hairdressing over five decades. Sharon Blain’s legacy will continue to inspire generations, leaving an indelible mark on the hairdressing world.

The final speaker of the day, Matt Kuc, tackled the topic of insurance, litigation, and risk management—an often overlooked yet crucial aspect of the industry. Matt’s engaging presentation skilfully captivated the audience, providing valuable insights on mitigating risks and protecting businesses.

Clint Piper, AHC board chair, brought the inspiring day to a close, summarizing the key messages and reaffirming the AHC’s commitments. These include fostering better communication and understanding among salons, RTOs, companies, and independent educators, advocating for greater flexibility in training products and resources, and building a strong community for knowledge sharing and access to top-notch education tools and practices.

The following day, the AHC continued its momentum with the Leadership Summit and Schmoozefest at the Hyatt Regency Sydney. This event attracted industry professionals from near and far, providing a platform for

inspiration, education, and networking. The Leadership Summit commenced with three distinguished keynote speakers, each sharing their expertise on different aspects of leadership and business.

Antony Whitaker returned to the stage, offering insights into the global salon industry’s evolving landscape. Tim Duggan, co-founder of Junkee Media and author of Cult Status and Killer Thinking, delved into creative leadership and effective problemsolving techniques. Jo Maitland, with her expertise in digital marketing and consumer behaviour, highlighted the importance of adapting to changing client expectations and leveraging the latest consumer marketing trends.

A crowd favourite was also a special video tribute given to long standing board member Faye Murray who has tirelessly and voluntarily given her time, mentorship and expertise to both the board and its members over the years and who is stepping down after contributing in such a big way since the inception of the AHC.

Following the enlightening Leadership Summit, attendees transitioned to the Schmoozefest, an opportunity for everyone to

network, connect, and celebrate their shared passion for the industry. Amidst delicious food, wine, and a vibrant atmosphere, industry peers engaged in conversations, exchanged insights, and solidified relationships.

The AHC have expressed gratitude to all attendees, speakers, and sponsors for their support in making the Leadership Summit & Schmoozefest a resounding success. With tickets selling out quickly, the industry demonstrated its recognition of the event’s value. The anticipation for next year’s Summit is already building, as professionals eagerly look forward to gaining knowledge, forging connections, and celebrating the advancements in the hairdressing industry.

These events served as a testament to the AHC’s commitment to promoting excellence, collaboration, and innovation in the hairdressing community. By facilitating education, leadership development, and networking opportunities, the AHC continues to shape the training landscape and empower industry professionals to thrive in an everevolving industry.

Images by Jarred Stedman, mocha group

AAFW

Welcome to the captivating world of Afterpay Australian Fashion Week (AAFW) 2023! Our very own Mocha GM Jarred Stedman had the privilege of covering 12 remarkable shows from Fashion Week, providing you with an insider’s perspective on the latest trends and inspirations that graced the runways.

Fashion Week 2023

Among the highlights of our coverage were the interviews with renowned guest artists, including Richard Kavanagh, Jacky Chan from Oscar and Oscar and Justin Pace (23 AHIA Creative Australian Hairdresser of the year) from Co and Pace representing Redken, John Pulitano from Headcase Hair, Travis Bandiera and Mary Alamine from Royals representing O&M and Mary also representing ghd, , Jason Fassbender from Willomina representing Goldwell, Uros Mikic from Kinky Curly Straight representing Revlon, Nicole Kae from Evo, Julie Hagney from TAFE, and Nicole Thompson, also known as Pinki, from Makeup Forever. Through these exclusive video interviews appearing on the @mochahair Instagram we delved into the inspiration behind their stunning looks, the hero products they used, and their invaluable pro tips for achieving runway-ready perfection.

As the official Afterpay Australian Fashion Week sponsors, Redken played a pivotal role in the event, adding their creative touch to an impressive line-up of 42 shows throughout the week. With 12 shows taking place offsite and the rest held at the iconic Carriage Works, Sydney Fashion Week 2023 brought together the crème de la crème of the fashion industry. At Mocha Group, our primary goal was to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring that every hairdo and makeup look flawlessly enhances the designers’ visions. Join us as we celebrate the talent and artistry that make Sydney Fashion Week an unforgettable experience.

“This week is special because it brings the industry together in a totally different way. Most people have volunteered their time, paid for their own flights and accommodation to be here. It’s a real investment. Fashion Week is an industry gathering of creative humans who get to rub shoulders with people from other salons, other brands, other product companies. A time to connect, to drink lots of coffee (because some of the call times were hours before the sun decided to wake up), laugh, innovated, learn and play. The days are long, the pressure is high, the teamwork is key but being there is truly something special.” Jarred Stedman, Mocha Group General Manager.

Photo Credit: mochagroup.

LEADING FROM THE HEART

By Louise May

In the ever-evolving world of the hair industry, where creativity, skill, and entrepreneurship intersect, Martha Kourtidou has carved an inspiring path from being an ambitious intern to becoming the visionary salon owner of BODA and an entrepreneur.

With an unwavering passion for her craft and an innate drive for success, Martha has risen through the ranks, overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities along the way.

In this exclusive interview with Hair Biz Editor Louise May, Martha takes us on a journey through her remarkable career, sharing the pivotal moments, strategies, and philosophies that have propelled her to the forefront of the industry.

Can you share with us your journey from being an intern at a hair salon to becoming a successful salon owner and entrepreneur?

I definitely think I have always had the characteristics of an entrepreneur. Growing up, the majority of my family were business owners so seeing how to problem solve and make processes better was my everyday normal. I sadly didn’t last very long as an intern as I kept trying to excel and grow faster than my boss was willing to let me. I went to a salon and told her I was ready to be a manager even though I had just qualified as a hairdresser. I was confident in my ability to connect with a team and inspire them. Two years later she made me a business partner and whilst our partnership only lasted 3 years, I knew I was only at the beginning of my career. Fast forward a few years, I bought my first BODA salon and quickly built an amazing army of strong leaders. The next problem we faced was that too many strong leaders under one roof wasn’t going to work for much longer, so I moved a key person into our second salon. The expansion of the BODA brand and the salons has since seen many years of success.

Can you share some insights into the strategies or approaches you have used to expand your business and establish multiple salons across Victoria?

It’s been a dream watching them grow in multiple areas around Victoria. I think my main approach has always been culture and people of profit. If you look after the people in your team, they will look after your salon. My strategy around people has always been to lead from the heart, understanding what motivates them and most importantly how can I assist them in their goals and growth.

What challenges have you faced along the way, and how have you overcome

them to achieve your goals?

There are two challenges that come to mind, the effect COVID-19 had on our salons and now, more recently, the potential recession we are heading towards. When COVID-19 hit in March 2020 I automatically went into survival mode. I jumped straight onto Alibaba and bought 3000 tint brushes and bowls for a very low price. I knew this wasn’t a flu that was going to go away in a month and knew I needed to pivot. We sold thousands of home colouring kits and made a great margin on each unit. I had so many messages from other hairdressers saying they couldn’t buy bowls or brushes at a low price to make the kits affordable. I was able to act quickly and create a product that was marketable and profitable. And of course, with every pandemic a recession follows so this is the challenge we are facing now. With price increases, we are seeing more clients worried about spending, so we are having many more gaps in our appointment books. After analysing the data, I realised we need to focus on bringing up our average dollar by removing some of the small, ticketed items as well as some of the more expensive services. The middle point is where the profits lie so I have just launched affordable

Photographer Dylan James

Photographer Dylan James

colour packages that will see us servicing the same amount of people at a better average dollar spend. I’m super excited to be able to introduce new clients to our space as they will struggle to keep up with hair maintenance if salons keep raising their prices.

What are your future plans for further expansion?

I want to focus on education and a place where we grow the best talent in Australia. Secondly, I’d like to build a business mentoring website, right now I’m running Zoom mentoring sessions and I love having the opportunity to share knowledge. I would also like to see more BODA salons open up nationally and internationally, with our first International salon in Bali (BODA Bali has a nice ring to it). And lastly, I’d like to create affiliated businesses that branch off from the BODA umbrella, for example, a salon media agency, product development and business mentoring for all businesses (not just salons).

How do you see the online aspect of your business evolving in the future, and what steps are you taking to stay ahead in the digital space?

We live in a digital world and it’s only going to get more prominent. Setting up an online store was a direct reflection of COVID-19 however I would like to learn more about

AI and how to use that software in our online experience. Digitally I want to focus more on social media and creating a content agency. I enjoyed building the online store however I see more profit coming from products we one day produce ourselves and that will override the online store we have currently.

What led you to launch Kourtside Coaching, and how do you aim to inspire and lead people to live their best possible lives?

Salon owners are the leaders in their business, and I believe leadership is 90% self-development and 10% management. I personally embarked on a self-development journey over 10 years ago and have gained a lot of insight and skills. I hope to be able to pass on these skills, so we see our industry be led by a group of positive, self-aware, and motivating owners. On a micro level, I aim to help salon owners build themselves. into inspiring leaders. On a macro level, I want to inspire all my followers to live their best lives possible and hope to set a change in themselves and the people around them.

Do you have any plans to diversify your business ventures or explore new opportunities within the beauty or self-care industry?

I have invested in property and that’s worked well for me. I have been building my understanding of finance and business over the last decade and have many plans to diversify into other areas. There is a saying that says, “stick to what you know” and whilst I believe this to be true and also easy, I am an entrepreneur so if an opportunity presents itself, I will run with it.

What role does continuous learning and self-development play in achieving long-term success as an entrepreneur?

It’s the most pivotal part of success. ‘Knowledge is power’ I’ve read many times however knowledge without selfdevelopment and action is just information stored in your brain. I think is extremely important to continuously push yourself out of your comfort zone and set goals for yourself. I run self-development classes with

everyone in my company on a regular basis (from apprentices to managers). I enrol myself in courses at least every quarter to ensure I’m learning something new. Only last month I pushed my body to climb a volcano in Bali and at the peak, I meditated and had this insight to create packages during a recession. I think pushing your body and mind outside your comfort zone honestly brings creative insight that would otherwise be dormant. My business and all future businesses will always have selfdevelopment programs running, especially for our leadership team. Next month I have planned a full day for all our managers to learn some new skills from me in hopes they inspire their team. I have done this for many years, and it truly makes me proud to see how so many people in our company have grown.

Photographer Dylan James

A REALM OF BEAUTY

By Louise May

Step into the captivating world of Alarah Hair Studio, a remarkable creation brought to life by the visionary founder and owner, Carla Tedesco, in 2013. What started as a humble garage salon in Carla’s early years evolved into a charming shop front nestled in the vibrant heart of Parkdale, Victoria. Today, Alarah stands as a testament to Carla’s unwavering work ethic, relentless dedication, and profound passion for the art of hairdressing.

Situated in the heart of Mentone, Victoria, Alarah Studio’s new flagship salon encompasses nearly 500 square meters of sheer escapism. Originally comprised of three distinct storefronts, these spaces have been seamlessly combined to create a centralised realm of beauty. The result is a headquarters that not only boasts an intuitive functionality but also optimises its diverse offerings while embodying a cohesive aesthetic that reflects the salon’s unique identity and brand.

Drawing inspiration from around the world, with a heartfelt nod to its European heritage, Alarah Studio exudes an ambiance that transcends borders. With 30 thoughtfully designed stations, 10 indulgent wash basins, a dedicated barber station, a charming retail and waiting area, and a delightful coffee and drinks station, the salon offers an unmatched sensory experience. Moreover, it houses two tranquil beauty therapy rooms, a welcoming reception area, offices, and staff rooms, all seamlessly integrated across three elevated levels.

As Alarah Studio continues to redefine the standards of hairdressing excellence, its exquisite space beckons all who seek a truly transformative and awe-inspiring beauty haven.

Hair Biz Editor Louise May chats with Carla about her journey, and the stunning new Alarah Hair Studio space.

Can you tell us about your journey in the hair industry, from starting as a garage salon to establishing Alarah hair studio?

My incredible mother Joyce was a hairdresser, and growing up like any young girl, it was always a dream of mine to own my own salon, just like her. When people ask me, ‘Carla, what is your dream?’, I can strongly say, exactly this.

The last 10 years of my journey has been about

finding what makes me tick in this industry, refining it, and just going for it.

I guess I believe my role on this earth is to teach, educate and continuously motivate and inspire the next level of hairdressers or creatives, and to ensure they believe that it is absolutely possible. Like the late creative genius Walt Disney once said, ‘If you have a dream, you can do it.’

What inspired you to pursue a career in hairdressing, and how has your passion for the craft contributed to the success of Alarah?

I just love hair! I love how hair is not just an outside appearance, but how it can absolutely make you feel from the inside out. I’ve always felt like it was my job to help people with their hair and make them feel beautiful on the outside, as well as within. We as hairdressers have a huge role to play on this earth and my message is, if you have the passion, dedication, and ambition, you are already halfway there.

I refer to Alarah as my first-born child. I’ve put my absolute heart and soul into every aspect of this beauty. There is nothing more on earth that I want, except for Alarah to continue to succeed and excel in the future of the hairdressing industry.

Could you elaborate on how your salon environment and services contribute to fostering this sense of self-love in your clients?

It’s never been a one size fits all, and so it shouldn’t. Everyone is different and special in their own, and that’s the part we need to focus on, not the part where we tell clients who they can and cannot be. Our clients are strong and powerful, while also being soft and sensuous, and it’s our job as stylists or colourist to enhance this beauty that’s already within them. People don’t come to Alarah to become beautiful, they come to Alarah because they already know they’re beautiful, we just help them believe it.

Can you tell us about how have you incorporated European influences into the design and aesthetics of Alarah Hair Studio?

We wanted to take the parts of the Mediterranean that you fall in love with and bring that sense of awe back home here in Australia. Australia has its own unique beauty, but when re-opening Alarah at our new location, we were mesmerised by the white stone clifftops and softness of the pebble beaches you find along the Mediterranean coast. People from around the world travel to see these amazing places, and we felt that we could emulate that with Alarah in a new and contemporary way, without taking away from the homeliness of the village lifestyle. Also, I personally along with many of staff, have travelled around the world to places such as New York, South Africa, China and Europe to name a few, participating in runway shows and other various outlets of the Hair, beauty and fashion world, educating and training with various industry leaders around the world, pushing Alarah to open our horizon of the various aspects other parts of the world have to offer in the Hair industry.

Could you tell us more about the unique qualities that set Alarah apart from other hair studios in Melbourne?

I guess the first thing is the respect and love we have for each other. We’re family, first and foremost. And like family, everyone has a part to play. Whether it be that crazy-fun auntie you have, or that estranged cousin who’s quiet but shows up when you least expect

it, well, that’s just us. This one big crazy family, unique in our own way, but when we come together, we complement each other to create a whole. This team means the absolute world to me.

What are some of the key values and principles that guide your team in delivering exceptional service and hairdressing expertise?

Stemming from my years as an apprentice, the work ethic that was instilled in me by my mentors is something I hope to bring to Alarah too. It’s the passion that we have for what we do that drives us to be the best versions of ourselves. We continue to tell our staff to be themselves because that’s what makes them a great hairdresser. The individuality that one person can bring to the table is key to having a successful team. And of course, growth. Be willing to grow and keep on growing. Be a better you than who you were yesterday, and just by doing that you will inspire others.

How do you prioritise continuous learning and growth within your team?

We value education as priority in our salon. We believe that you don’t stop learning, even once you are qualified or have been in the industry for over 10 years. Mondays are usually spent as training days, where we have special guests teaching us different techniques or turning old and outdated ways into something new and fresh. Even on our working days, we prioritise our juniors stepping in when they can and working through those jitters in a safe environment and cultivating their individual qualities.

How do you balance the creative aspects of hairdressing with the responsibilities of running a successful salon business?

I’ve always been creative, but I’ve also always been business savvy. Even before I was a qualified hairdresser, I already knew I wanted to create a space where clients can come and feel at home while they treated themselves to a blow wave or finally found the courage to chop it all off and dye their hair a bright colour. But not just that,

I wanted to create a safe place for my staff as well, and I guess being a mother now, I see all my staff as family, taking them under my wing and teaching the next generation of hairdressers everything I know. Also, having my husband jump on board, I can focus on my team and education whilst the management of business and accounts can be handled at a higher degree, it also helps having someone who can look at the hair industry as an outsider who can bring extensive ideas to contribute to the growth of our brand. We also have a strong management team, staff who have been a part of the Alarah growth, who also treat our brand as their own. Trust and respect from these strong leaders help Alarah as a brand and contribute immensely to our future.

What advice would you give to aspiring hairdressers who are looking to build their own brand and establish themselves in the industry?

It’s probably one of the oldest sayings, but hard work really does pay off. When I was a young apprentice, I put myself out there. Yes, I was scared and yes, I was nervous about what people might think of my work, but at the end of the day, I realised that if I didn’t get out of my comfort zone, life would pass me by, and I would have just been the quiet girl in the back. You need to want more of yourself, to demand more of yourself even when you feel as if you’ve given everything you’ve got. Because ultimately, the reality is there is more juice to squeeze, and if you’re not the one helping yourself, then who is?

What do you aspire to achieve daily and what does the future hold for Alarah?

As always, we want our clients to look good and feel great about themselves and if we can incentivise this sort of self-love and self-awareness, then our job as hairdressers is complete. When a client walks through our door, they can expect to feel welcomed and seen for who they are, because that’s ultimately what Alarah is all about. The best part about this journey is that we are 10 years in, but we are only just getting started. I know Alarah’s potential and there is nothing more that excites me than the future. Until then, we will keep you waiting as it is absolutely worth the wait, stay tuned.

Giggle! IT’S A

Welcome to the world of Giggles, where hairstyling artistry intertwines with a heartfelt commitment to making a difference. With two thriving locations, Giggles Hair Booval and Giggles HQ at Brassall Ipswich, Queensland, Giggles are more than just your ordinary hair salon. As a family-run business, their journey has spanned over 15 years, and throughout this time, their dedication to providing an unmatched customer experience remains unwavering.

At Giggles, they are passionate about crafting stunning Blondes, expertly executing Colour corrections, and creating picture-perfect Wedding and Formal Hair & Makeup. But their story doesn’t end there. They believe in giving back to their community, using their skills and platform to bring smiles to faces far beyond the salon mirrors.

In their pursuit of making a positive impact, they have actively participated in the World’s Greatest Shave, standing in solidarity with those battling cancer. Beyond that, they have hosted in-salon VIP nights, raising awareness for Diabetes, Breast Cancer, and Mental Health, showing that hair care can go hand-in-hand with heartfelt advocacy.

Their dedication extends globally as well. They have volunteered their craft, sharing their expertise with young women in Myramar, a war-stricken country in Asia, hoping to inspire and uplift amidst challenging circumstances. At Giggles, it’s not just about looking fabulous, but also about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those around them.

Hair Biz Editor Louise May chats with Giggles owner Kristy Midgley.

Can you tell us about your experience and background in the hair salon industry, and what led you to open Giggles Hair Studio in Ipswich?

I have been hairdressing 27 years. I wanted to be a journalist or an accountant at

school. The salon that was beside where my mum worked was looking for someone to help out on a Saturday because I loved money I applied for the job. After 3 months of working as many hours as I could in the salon the owner asked if I wanted an apprenticeship. I loved the social side and watching women walk out of the salon feeling amazing, so I said yes, and the rest is history. I won Indigenous And Torres Strait Islander Apprentice of the year in 1999. I worked with my first employer for 10 years. I had become a mum and after the birth of second son I decided I wanted to have the flexibility to not miss out of mum stuff so that’s how opening Giggles became a reality in 2007.

How has Giggles Hair Studio grown and evolved over the past 16 years, and what do you attribute its strong growth to?

I started with a 4-seater salon in an industrial part of Ipswich and after being there for 4 years I had grown my clientele where one Christmas I had people sitting on the floor! So, I moved into the complex where I had completed my apprenticeship. It felt a little weird going back to where I started but was also a good feeling. I fitted out a 12-seater salon there then after 5 years has now grown into a 24-seater salon. then 6 years later have now opened a 2nd salon on the other side of town. I feel like the growth has come from my passion wanting to help young girls love this industry just as much as I do! I love training and sharing my knowledge and ALL the mistakes I have made over the years. I am also known for my contagious laugh hence the name Giggles.

What inspired the decision to join the Revlon Professional family, and how do you believe this partnership will benefit Giggles Hair Studio and its clientele?

Revlon appealed to me in the right time of my growth. I am a big believer of things happening for a reason. I wanted to be a part of a colour company that I could see myself growing with. Revlon has given so many opportunities I would have only dreamed of within a short amount of time together and that shows me that they believe in my visions and goals as a salon owner. I also am a big believer of surrounding yourself with amazing people and I have absolutely nailed that with my Revlon Family.

Could you share the vision and goals behind this expansion, as well as how it will enhance your education and salon services?

Opening up our 2nd salon in Brassell has definitely been the scariest decisions I have ever made. I have the best husband and boys ever they are absolutely my biggest fans and keep me growing! I want to employ as many apprentices as I can to grow our Industry so my vision with Giggles HQ was to have more space to conduct private education for any apprentice or hairstylist out there.

As the owner of Giggles Hair Studio, how do you foster a positive and collaborative work environment for your staff?

As I mentioned I am a big believer of surrounding yourself with amazing people and I seem to have attracted over the years staff that has either inspired me or

helped me grow to be a better manager and business owner. We conduct yearly Giggles Summits which is for goal setting personally and professionally and I visit that with them over the course of the year. I also organise quarterly Giggles Bonding days or nights. I feel it’s important to get the team together for fun times out of the salon walls as it helps build trust and supportive bond for each other.

With the addition of more staff members in the future, how do you ensure a seamless integration and maintain the salon’s culture and quality standards?

I am very passionate about my salon culture I’m not sure if being a mum to boys has given me this protective side, but I make sure to anyone who joins my team must be in alignment with our Giggles values and one of them is to be a part of our salon family. So, I make sure all my staff embrace the newbie with open arms as I remind them, they were there once.

What sets Giggles Hair Studio apart from other salons in the area? Giggles specializes in Blondes. We also set a very friendly, warm vibe in the salon free from judgement as that’s one of the most talked about in our reviews that clients felt safe and not judged.

What future goals and aspirations do you have for yourself and the salon?

I would love to be known to be the most trusted Blonde salon in Ipswich and known for my attention to detail to training future hairstylists and apprentices in Ipswich.

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Full Circle! Hannah Brumley’s Journey from Apprentice to Educator.

By Anthony Gray, MIG Training

Growing up in her mother’s salon environment, Hannah envisioned herself pursuing a different career path. Her dream was to become a flight attendant. However, fate had other plans, and she found herself embarking on a hairdressing apprenticeship, considering it a temporary endeavour while she waited to fulfil her dream of working as a flight attendant. Little did Hannah know that this seemingly interim solution would turn into her true passion. As she immersed herself in the world of hairdressing during her apprenticeship, Hannah discovered a deep love for the craft and the culture. The camaraderie among passionate individuals and the joy of creating stunning hairstyles captivated her. It was through these experiences that she realized hairdressing was not just a job but her calling.

Hannah’s journey in the hairdressing industry began with a school-based apprenticeship in a small suburban salon in Morningside, Brisbane. Starting as a shy and inexperienced apprentice, she navigated the challenges of learning the trade, including comical mishaps like mopping the floor with cold water for an entire month. Driven by her eagerness to complete the apprenticeship, Hannah diligently juggled work and college. Along the way, she encountered difficulties understanding colour theory, leading her to change colleges to work with MIG Training to receive the support she needed. Hannah’s dedication and talent did not go unnoticed, as she became a finalist for the QLD Training Awards twice during her apprenticeship.

Reflecting on her apprenticeship, Hannah admits that one of the biggest challenges she faced was realizing that mastery in hairdressing takes years of learning and growth. Even after completing her

apprenticeship, she discovered that the journey of learning never ends, even for senior stylists. The ever-evolving industry offers new trends and techniques to master, fuelling her excitement and passion for her career. Working alongside exceptionally talented hairdressers throughout her journey, Hannah has witnessed first-hand the ongoing development and growth that keeps the profession exhilarating.

Hannah’s career trajectory has been an adventure, with various roles and experiences shaping her into the professional she is today. Her first job at the age of 14 in a hotel laid the foundation for her work ethic and love for diverse tasks. Balancing three jobs, attending school, and pursuing a certification in Events Management at TAFE during her final year of high school, Hannah’s days were always filled with excitement and new challenges. At 18, while exploring opportunities in the aviation industry, she stumbled upon a prestigious salon in Brisbane CBD. Kate and Oscar from Elysium Hair welcomed her, allowing her to work part-time as a hairdresser while pursuing her dream of becoming a flight attendant. It was in this role that Hannah realized the vast potential her career held. The salon nurtured her growth as a colourist, investing in her completion of the “Loreal Colour Degree” program, which had a significant impact on her confidence and skill development.

Hannah’s progress led to an education role within the salon, managing the team and expanding her responsibilities. She achieved recognition as a finalist for the AHIA Salon Stylist of the Year, a defining moment in her journey. Subsequently, she embraced a management role in a beautiful salon in Fortitude Valley, an incredible opportunity that furthered her personal and professional growth. Hannah’s passion for education and

If you had asked Hannah Brumley in her younger years what she saw herself doing in the future, becoming a hairdresser would not have been her immediate answer.

growth motivated her to pursue a career as an educator. Her own thirst for knowledge and the support she received from mentors propelled her in this direction. By the time she finished high school, Hannah had already completed multiple certified courses, including those at TAFE, and had just one more year to go with her apprenticeship. As she worked closely with educators from Loreal and Kerastase, attending their classes, she felt inspired by the impact they had on the industry. The dream of becoming an educator for Loreal Professional ignited within her, fuelled by her own love for growth and education.

Throughout her career, Hannah acknowledges the crucial role of mentors, friendships, and connections in shaping her success. Kate and Oscar and the supportive team at Elysium Hair Brisbane, played a significant role in her development. Their belief in her abilities, along with the guidance of her manager-turned-friend Whitney Kelly, instilled the confidence she needed to push her limits and pursue her dreams.

Today, Hannah is living her dream as an educator for Loreal Professional. Her role encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities, ensuring each day is a new and exciting challenge. She looks after salons from Byron Bay to Cairns, allowing her to develop strong connections within the Queensland hairdressing community. Hannah finds joy in creating business plans for salons, conducting in-salon training sessions, teaching fundamental classes, and supporting incredibly talented Loreal Professional Artists in their inspiring classes at the Loreal Academy. Additionally, she actively participates in launches and networking events to foster relationships and build a vibrant network within the industry.

Recently, Hannah had the unique opportunity to go full circle as an educator, returning to the college where she received her training. Welcoming MIG Training to the world of Loreal Pro, she experienced a mix of excitement and nervousness. The talented trainers who once taught her were now her peers. Spending two days with the team at her former hair college was an incredibly rewarding experience.

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What Does Employment Look Like To You?

By Kristie Kesic, Cobelle Creative

Within our industry there is so many types of employment options. Are you an owner, do you work among a big team or a small team, are you an independent stylist, have you been a long-term employee, or do you like to change from salon to salon?

Our industry has changed so much, just in the time I have been around, and I feel it’s a never-ending discussion when it comes to types of employment. Do I have my beliefs and opinions about each, ABSOLUTELY…. BUT I honestly feel no option is wrong because there’s an option for each induvial and there’s a reason everyone has chosen their said option.

I genuinely want to understand a little more about people’s choices, and what they look for, so I thought I’d do some research myself, ask questions and hear the perspectives from owners, independent stylists, employees’ long term and new. Hopefully this gives a little insight into just some employment options within our industry.

Firstly, I asked some of the seriously successful business owners I know, what they look for in a new employee and what makes a great team member.

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR WHEN EMPLOYING A NEW TEAM MEMBER?

Sheridan: I look for a hunger, integrity, open mindedness, willingness to grow, humility and a gut feel

Mikey: I’m mostly looking for personality. I’ve always been a massive believer in you can teach skills, you can’t teach personality. An interview with me looks more like a casual chat. We meet at the salon, chat about our day, what their week has been like etc. This really gives me some time to check out what they are like and if I think they will fit in with the team. They should also come dressed to impress. We work in fashion

Kate: Openness, Drive, and Dedication: Seek individuals who are open to new ideas and want to do their best work. Continuous Growth: We look for team members who thirst for knowledge and constantly strive to improve their skills.

Alignment with Salon Values: We work hard to speak to the hearts and minds of candidates who align with our values of freedom, respect, integrity, connection, and kindness.

Each of these salons I would say are very different, yet all so very successful. The common factor that equates to their success is very clear and it’s the fact they employee staff that suit their culture and fit in with their team. I personally live by the belief; I would rather be a staff member down and control our bookings rather than employ the wrong person.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD TEAM MEMBER?

Sheridan: Someone who can read the room, is in touch with their emotions, wants to play in a team, humble, not better than or less than.

Mikey: A good team member can look so different. Depending on the salon, role etc. It’s a hard one to put into words. You want someone who supports the salons brand, goal, feel and is great on the floor and on paper.

I then reached out to the long-term employees. Some of us have worked extremely hard to nurture and maintain long term employees, so I wanted to seek employee’s perspective as to what keeps them at their salon for the long haul.

My Instagram poll recorded

75% said salon environment

12% said it is the clients

7% said career opportunities

6% said money.

To get a real perspective on longevity, I reached out to Evie Golding , who is a beautifully respected and loyal team member and has been with her current salon Rokstar for 4.5 years.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD BOSS?

Evie: A good boss is someone you respect and has similar values and morals that you align with. That means a boss who is

Sheridan Shaw - Mamma West 10 employees, owner for 2.5 previous sole operator.

Mikey Forster – The Disco 9 employees, owner for 11 years.

Kate Henderson - Elysium Hair Brisbane, 15 employees, owner for 15 years.

there to support you and help you gain the confidence in your personal and work goals. A boss that keeps your job fun and exciting with education/ training. Setting you up for success and allowing you to be the best version of yourself and helping you reach those goals.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD TEAM?

Evie: A good team is a group of people that you value and align with in your overall goal

If you feel that a team isn’t meeting you at your goals then be the change and lead by example, be the one to help guide your team to success. That is what a good team does, works with each other strengths and weaknesses, and together have a common goal and purpose.

I feel a workplace that you love and enjoy being at is so powerful. It likes a relationship, you gotta put in as much as the other side puts in. Respect and hard work go both ways.

At the moment with my Boss Brodie, she is such a powerhouse of a women, and I am in awe of her and learn so much from her every day.

I also come for a long line of very loyal hard workers, so I think that helps in a way as my parents always supported me but also didn’t let me quit when the going got tough. I think that is an important thing, being able to not let things get your down or cloud your judgement about a workplace if everyone else is on the negative.

Next, I asked the question to the new employees. What made you leave a previous salon, and the overwhelming response was lack of training, (and we wonder why we have a skill shortage) and then followed closely by team environment.

Next was, what do you look for when applying for a new salon?

83% said salon environment

9% said awards and industry contributions

8% said money

Again, it clearly comes down to the environment. Supplying great education within that environment, provide a space in which your team feel safe, appreciated, respected, and can grow. Find whatever that looks like for your salon and each individual staff member and your already on your way to staff longevity and success.

The independent stylist, salon suite stylists are ones that intrigue me the most. For me the thought of working by myself in a smaller space stress me out more than owning a salon of 10 staff, yet for others it sounds like heaven. So of course, I reached out to 2 men who have made the transition from BIG salon teams to independent stylist very successfully.

WHAT WAS THE MOST APPEALING THING FOR YOU TO BRANCH OUT FROM A TEAM AND BECOMING AN INDEPENDENT STYLIST IN YOUR OWN SPACE?

Stuart: The most appealing thing for me about branching out on my own was having control of the environment and client experience. In larger salons you rely on many others to make the clients visit enjoyable. With colour trends now being as much about toning skills as the lightening, I wanted the ability to work one client at a time so I could meet clients’ expectations. I work within a co-working space, so I feel like I am still very much a part of a team and have many other very talented hairdressers to bounce ideas off which is important to me.

Nathan: The main reason I moved into becoming an independent stylist was freedom and flexibility. However, this was not my first choice. I have always preferred to be an employee because to me employment meant security. When the salon I was working for closed their doors I took the leap and went out on my own.

It wasn’t my plan, but it just worked out best for me at the time! If it hadn’t of closed, I still may be employed? However, flexibility in time was key for me as I also run other businesses that required me to be available at and nimble with my schedule so for me that’s the number one reason, I have stuck to being an independent!

Would I be an independent stylist without my other side gigs...probably not!

The thing I enjoyed most was being able to manage all the elements of the client journey and test out things I have wanted to do for ages, also being able to fully present the brand I wanted to present

IS THERE ANYTHING YOU MISS ABOUT WORKING ALONGSIDE A TEAM EVERY DAY?

Stuart: I struggle being responsible for everything in my business, I miss having someone to manage my schedule or communication/admin!

I also think it’s important to grow and perfect your craft within a team environment, working freelance requires a lot of self-motivation to stay educated and up to date, don’t run before you can walk.!

Nathan: I don’t miss anything about working alongside a team, however I am constantly in other people’s salons educating or working as a fill in stylist, so I get my fix!

IS THERE ANYTHING YOU DON’T MISS ABOUT WORKING ALONGSIDE A BIG TEAM?

Stuart: I absolutely don’t miss having your equipment going missing within a team environment… I’ve had the same clips for the past 2.5 years - a first in my 23 years of hairdressing

Nathan: What I learnt about myself is that I didn’t realise how sensitive I was to noise and other people’s energy! Once I was on my own, I finished my days so much less exhausted and rattled in the brain! The salon I was working at was huge team, concrete floors, blaring music and at times 10 blowdryers it’s no wonder I was shagged. I grew to enjoy silence, downtime between clients and be able to snare myself in between clients instead of having to rinse someone else’s colour or get caught in mindless chatter!

All these employment types may vary but it’s obvious that the number 1 contributing factor to how each option works successfully for each is simply because of the ENVIROMENT. The salon environment looks totally different to all these employment options, and each is unique. The clients and staff that like the big busy salons aren’t the same people that are going to like the salon suite spaces and vice versa. Just like anything there’s always going to be pros and cons to every option and the thought of trying to pick apart and work out what exactly is the best employment option for our industry moving forward into the future is a question that’s beyond me, but I certainly know I loved gaining a bit of perspective from researching this piece and I hope you guys do to.

Nathan Yip – Pretty Vacant 1.5 years

Stuart Blane – Stuart Bane Colour, Salon Lane Sydney 2.5 years, 20 years prior working within a salon team as an employee.

An Inclusive Salon Is Good For The World, And Good For Your Business.

By Kristina Russell

Hi! My name is Kristina & my pronouns are she/her/hers. My clients can see this when booking in my salon software, which can be welcoming/assuring for our LGBTQIA+ community and clients seeking a gender-affirming salon & safer space.

I am proudly a member, Ambassador and the nominated Australian Change Maker for The Dresscode Project. The DCP is a global alliance of salons and barbershops committed to providing positive, genderaffirming services for LGBTQ+ clients. We envision a world where every hair salon and barbershop is a gender-affirming, safer space for LGBTQI+ clients.

My salon service menu is based on creating safer spaces with transparency around gender-free pricing and terminology within consultations and services. I commit to embracing diversity and eliminating discrimination in the hairdressing and beauty industry. My prices are based on colour services and hair length. www.kristinarussell. com.au Instagram @colourkristina

Hair and beauty industries have been considered safe spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community but we still have a long way to go with education, acceptance, and

understanding of how we can continue forward momentum.

In recent years, the concept of gender identity and expression has gained significant recognition and acceptance. As society becomes more inclusive, it is crucial for various industries to adapt and provide services that cater to the needs of all individuals. Hair salons, as spaces that promote self-expression and personal style, play a vital role in supporting gender diversity and ensuring that everyone feels welcome and affirmed.

This blog explores the importance of genderaffirming services in hair salons, highlighting their significance in fostering inclusivity and empowering individuals to embrace their authentic selves.

Creating Safe(r) Spaces:

1. Hair salons are more than just places where people get their hair styled. They

serve as community hubs where individuals can find acceptance, support, and a sense of belonging. For transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, who may face unique challenges in society, hair salons can provide safe spaces where they can express their true selves without fear of judgment or discrimination. Offering gender-affirming services, such as gender-neutral pricing, inclusive language, and knowledgeable stylists, ensures that everyone feels respected and comfortable in their salon experience. It’s important to note the definition of “safe space” and the reason why I’m using the phrase “safer space”. The dictionaries definition of a “safer space” is a place (as on a college campus) intended to be free of bias, conflict, criticism, or potentially threatening actions, ideas, or conversations.

This is the definition of “safe space” from the Merriam-Webster dictionary. The Dresscode Project Alliance use the term “safer space” because we can never guarantee that a place is completely 100% safe.

Addressing Unique Hair Care Needs:

2. Hair care needs can vary widely based on hair type, texture, and individual preferences. Gender-affirming services in hair salons acknowledge that these needs extend beyond the binary understanding of male and female. Transgender individuals, for instance, may have different hair care requirements due to hormonal changes from hormone therapy. By providing expertise in diverse hair types and offering specialised services, such as haircuts that cater to different gender expressions or wig styling for individuals undergoing transition, salons can ensure that each client receives personalized care and support. Removing the words male, female, masculine and feminine or anything gender biased from your consultation and haircut and styling descriptions is an integral part of creating an affirming hair service.

Enhancing Self-Confidence and Mental Well-being:

3. Hair plays a significant role in how individuals perceive themselves and how they are perceived by others. For many transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, the ability to style their hair in a way that aligns with their gender identity can be empowering and contribute to their overall well-being. Gender-affirming services in hair salons provide a platform for selfexpression, enabling individuals to feel confident, authentic, and at peace with their appearance. The positive impact on mental health and self-esteem cannot be overstated, as it allows individuals to navigate the world with a greater sense of self-assurance. In contrast, being misgendered during a hair appointment can be damaging to a client’s emotional and mental wellbeing and experienced as a micro-aggression. If you accidentally misgender someone it’s highly recommended to apologise, acknowledge and move on to avoid escalating the situation and causing more upset.

Education and Awareness:

4. Hair salon professionals have a unique opportunity to act as allies and advocates for the LGBTQIA+ community. By investing in ongoing education and training, salons can ensure that their stylists are knowledgeable about diverse gender identities, appropriate language usage, and inclusive practices. This not only benefits transgender and gender non-conforming clients but also contributes to a more inclusive society at large. When hair salons take the initiative to foster awareness and understanding, they become catalysts for positive change, helping to reduce prejudice and discrimination. I have recorded and published several podcast episodes about easy vocabulary changes for inclusivity and how to offer gender-affirming hair services. Available to listen and subscribe for free on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or your fave podcast app.

Easy language changes for Inclusivity:

5. Instead of using the term “boyfriend” or “girlfriend”, try using the word “partner” or even “lover”. This can help others around you to feel comfortable if they do not fit into the categories of “boyfriend” or “girlfriend”. The word “partner” is all-inclusive and can apply to anyone

Change certain language such as “guys” or “ladies” while talking about groups of people. Consider using the terms “folks” or “friends” or even “everyone” to be more inclusive of all genders and those who do not adhere to genders

Add your pronouns to your life. Even if you are cisgender, try adding your pronouns to your social media pages, email signatures, and business cards to help normalize using pronouns and asking for pronouns, no matter if the person is transgender, or cisgender, or nonbinary. The more pronoun usage, the more understanding and acceptance of others’ pronouns there are.

I’ve been asked this A LOT in my DM’s recently...

Q: How can I change to be a gender-free hair salon?

A: In episodes 6, 94, 127, 128, 129, and 100 of the Colour Kristina Talks Podcast, we’re talking about why inclusivity matters, and gender-free pricing and consultation strategies to help you and your salon to know how to offer gender-affirming hair services. If you’re not into podcasts, that’s OK! You can read the blogs at www. kristinarussell.com.au

There are 5 easy ways to make all folk feel welcome in your salon, including;

1. Use an inclusive price menu

2. Have your pronouns visible

3. Join The Dresscode Project alliance at www.dresscodeproject.com

4. Use inclusive language

5. Never assume a person’s name or pronouns

Hair salons are not just about hairstyling; they are places where people seek selfexpression, acceptance, and community. By providing gender-affirming services, these salons play a crucial role in creating safe spaces, addressing unique hair care needs, enhancing self-confidence, and promoting education and awareness. Embracing diversity and inclusivity in the salon industry is not only the right thing to do but also a business imperative in an ever-evolving society. When individuals are seen, heard, and affirmed for who they are, it fosters a sense of belonging and empowers them to live authentically. Let us work together to ensure that hair salons are spaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and celebrated.

With education, acceptance, and understanding of gender-affirming hair services, we can as an Industry forward the momentum towards inclusivity. Why? Because it’s good for business and good for the world.

Would you love to learn more about the Dresscode Project?

Our mission is to educate and empower hair stylists and barbers to give people haircuts that help them look the way they feel. We envision a world where every hair salon and barbershop is a gender-affirming, saferspace for LGBTQ2S+ clients.

We want to provide support, education, resources, and events that help, not only our member salons, but any hairdresser or barber interested in seeking additional knowledge to create safer spaces in their area.

For many queer folks, the professional beauty industry has always been considered a safer space but we still have a long way to go with education, acceptance and understanding and it’s our mission to make sure we continue forward momentum.

Head to www.dresscodeproject.com

The Role of the AHC. Advocacy, Connection, Education, and Support

In the ever-evolving world of the hairdressing industry, the Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC) plays a vital role in representing, connecting, educating, and supporting professionals across the country. With its four pillars, the AHC has become a trusted voice and a driving force behind positive change within the industry.

Advocacy is at the core of the AHC’s mission. As the representative of the industry to the government, the council actively engages in advocacy and lobbying efforts to ensure that the concerns and interests of hairdressing professionals are heard and considered. Through their presence in meetings and committees, the AHC influences decisionmaking processes that impact the industry and businesses. Additionally, the council acts as a voice for the industry in the media, providing insights and perspectives through various channels, including print, television, and radio.

The AHC also plays a crucial role in connecting industry professionals. Through multiple social media channels and events such as the AHC Industry Day on Education and Training, the AHC Leadership Summit and Schmoozefest, the AHC creates avenues for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. By bringing together salon owners, educators, apprentices, students, and industry leaders, the AHC fosters an environment of collective growth and development.

Education and training are paramount to the AHC’s vision. The council collaborates with leaders in education, registered training organisations (RTOs), educators, teachers, and company trainers, to ensure that industry standards are upheld and improved. By listening and communicating with various stakeholders, the AHC stays up to date with the needs and challenges faced by professionals in the field. Through accreditation recognition, the council uplifts the industry’s reputation by promoting ethical business practices, sustainable approaches, and the recognition of hairdressing qualifications.

Furthermore, the AHC provides unwavering support to its members. With unlimited HR advice and a vast library of resources covering business, mental health, and education, the council equips professionals with the tools they need to thrive.

Informative and educational podcasts and webcasts further contribute to the dissemination of knowledge, reaching a broad audience within the industry.

In response to the skills shortage within the industry, the AHC has introduced HeadHunter Recruitment, an initiative designed to assist salons in finding qualified staff. By addressing this critical issue, the council actively works

towards bridging the gap between demand and supply in the hairdressing workforce.

Who are the AHC’s members?

AHC members across the hairdressing and barber industries around Australia are accredited salons, sole operators, product companies, RTOs and associated industry suppliers and businesses that share a united vision to promote and protect the industry. We’re YOUR voice, representing our industry’s presence to government and consumers and together we elevate industry standards, reputation and image to create a better future.

Where does my membership money go?

The AHC is a not-for-profit organisation that works solely for the betterment of its members and the industry. We’ve got your back in good times and challenging times, and we can help take your business to new heights, supporting you along the way. Our programs, resources and HR advice team help business owners who are too busy working in their business to source the information they need to access to successfully run their salons.

The difference with the Australian Hairdressing Council compared to other associations is that an industry person will respond to your query. Our AHC team are all hairdressers, have been business owners, educators, and understand what it’s like to stand in your shoes.

The hairdressing industry landscape has changed over the last 10 years. The AHC as an Association adapts to this changing landscape by understanding the needs for existing and new business models. The AHC acts as a connection to all industry businesses to encourage inclusivity so that no business or individual feels isolated but supported.

What’s in it for me?

There are so many benefits of being part of the AHC community and we provide excellent value for money with our memberships, all of which are 100% tax deductible.

The AHC understands that all business owners need to be informed and supported

with industry changes or employee advice. Salon owners join the AHC as ‘Salon Select’ members and gain access to the following, plus so much more:

• Specialised Workplace Advisory Team advising on all employment and Award queries, available via phone and email 7.30am-8.30pm AEST Monday to Friday except national public holidays – included in your membership.

• More than 400 resources covering crucial operational information including pay tables and IR changes.

• Employee management ideas and templates.

• Policies and Procedures covering your salon operations and culture.

• Valuable support, opportunity, insight and inspiration in many areas as you forge ahead in your business.

• A support network of industry peers at your fingertips via a 24/7 online forum.

• Consumer recognition that your salon is amongst the very best in Australia.

• Accreditation as a GOLD or SILVER Salon Select salon.

• Access to seminars, speakers, business insight and creative education opportunities at discounted AHC membership prices.

• Peace of mind that you are part of a community of likeminded business owners that will support and help you throughout your business journey.

Overall, the Australian Hairdressing Council plays a pivotal role in shaping the hairdressing industry. Through its advocacy efforts, connection-building initiatives, commitment to education and training, and unwavering support for its members, the AHC is a driving force behind the industry’s growth, development, and success.

Whether you’re a sole trader or salon owner, we’d love to welcome you to the AHC community. Check out our memberships here: www.theahc.org.au/ memberships

Or if you’d like one of our team to contact you to discuss how we can support you, simply follow this link: https://bit.ly/ AHCMQ23

Raw Reflection. “Keep smiling as I do every day and think how great life is.”

Raw Hair by Anthony Nader, one of Sydney’s most iconic hair salons, continues to thrive under the leadership of its founder, Anthony Nader. Nader’s inspiring journey and the establishment of Raw Salon are a testament to his resilience, determination, and unwavering passion for the craft of hairstyling.

The inception of Raw Salon stemmed from a series of challenging experiences that Nader faced early in his career. After venturing to London for work, Nader returned to Sydney only to face a heart-breaking reality. His first two employers, tragically lost to HIV, resulted in the unfortunate closure of their salons. Reflecting on those trying times, Nader shared, “Honestly... it’s a sad answer, but fast forward to today, and thankfully my doors are still open and going strong.” Nader, together with his partner David, made the courageous decision to open their own salon.

When asked about the inspiration behind the name “Raw Salon,” Nader explained, “There are two reasons behind the name really.” Firstly, in the early days of the salon’s existence, Nader and David had limited financial resources. Nader recalls, “We literally had to do it all on a shoestring.” Their makeshift salon setup reflected their resourcefulness and determination. Nader embraced the temporary nature of their initial space, and as their business grew, they proudly referred to it as “RAW.”

Secondly, the name “Raw” represents Nader’s hair philosophy and the salon’s approach to hairstyling. Nader emphasised, “I work with the hair’s texture, encouraging what you have and refining it to be the best version.” The salon strives to create cuts that appear effortlessly lived-in, drawing inspiration from the timeless French girl hair aesthetic that Nader deeply admires.

Throughout the journey of building Raw Salon, Nader encountered several challenges. He shared, “Product companies believing in us and gaining their trust over time was a significant challenge.” Additionally, finding team members who align with the Raw Salon brand and its vision proved to be essential for success. Nader added, “We had to open 7 days a week for many years. We didn’t have a choice as rent on Oxford Street, even back then, was crazy expensive. But we did it and just had to open 24/7 basically.”

When it comes to building a talented team of stylists and professionals who align with the Raw Salon vision, Nader emphasised the importance of time, patience, and investment. He remarked, “It takes time, patience, and money, full stop!” Nader believes in carefully selecting team members who share

the salon’s passion for hairstyling and its commitment to providing exceptional service. Raw Salon sets itself apart from other salons through its commitment to creating a beautiful and welcoming space without intimidation. Nader explained, “Reception is the first point in any salon, and they need to reflect the owners always. Then, of course, is your team. Your team is your extension of branding.” The salon focuses on creating personal connections with clients and providing a warm and friendly environment.

To stay relevant in the ever-changing hair and beauty industry, Raw Salon places great importance on continuous training and education. Nader highlighted, “Training, training, and more training. If you don’t do this, you won’t have a strong team.” The salon also prioritises team bonding activities and incentives to foster a positive and motivated work environment.

Reflecting on his journey, Nader offered advice to his younger self and aspiring salon owners, saying, “First and foremost, take the time and employ your team members carefully... Keep smiling as I do every day and think how great life is.”

HAIR BODY & EDUCATION

soul

By Louise May

Melbourne hair and beauty institution Hair Body & Soul launched their HBS Education division in 2022. Founded by best friends and business partners, Michelle McCubbin- Gannon and Pina Khalaf, HBS Education offers Salon Business Coaching, Apprentice Education, Masterclasses, and In-Salon Training.

With a desire to share their combined 70 years of salon business expertise with both new Salon start-ups and those needing to reinvigorate, Michelle and Pina believe that lifelong learning is the key to the ever-changing and quickly evolving salon industry. To support, grow and elevate capability within the hairdressing industry, and tackle the nationwide salon staff decline of recent years – all delivered with passion, understanding and fun!

This dynamic duo offer the perfect balance of creativity and commercial acumen, and between them they’re “confident we’ve seen and heard it all”. Dry cutting and curl expert, Pina Khalaf is the in-house Educator. With 40 years’ experience in the hair game, 20 of those co-owning Hair Body & Soul, her passion lies in empowering and educating Salon Owners and their teams. The perfect complement to Pina’s passion for Education is fellow Hair Body & Soul co-owner Michelle McCubbin-Gannon, an award-winning entrepreneur who has helped thousands of small business owners increase their revenue and personal earnings by offering profitable business solutions. Michelle’s secret power is her ability to combine hair and business seamlessly.

While Pina and Michelle bring different skills, talents, and passions to the business, they are firmly aligned in their core values and dedication to sharing their knowledge with the industry. “The biggest mistake any business can make is thinking they know it all. We’ve worked on our self-development in our craft, in the creative space and in the business space and we’re ready to share our knowledge, experience and learnings” explain Pina & Michelle.

Delivering insightful and authentic advice to Salon businesses, the HBS Consultancy Division helps Salons identify their unique pathways to success, focussing on the full breadth of their business from staff training

and hair services through to recruitment and retention.

For Salon Teams, the HBS Education Division offers something for all levels of experience, from Apprentice through to Senior Stylists. Their Apprentice Program is designed to educate and empower First Year Apprentices before they even set foot in the Salon, while the renowned Dry Cutting Masterclasses offered by Pina are designed to expand the expertise of Salon Stylists, removing the fear factor, and demonstrating go-to techniques and signature styles. In-Salon training comprises half a day of education at Hair Body & Soul or within individual Salon environments.

We recently caught up with Michelle and Pina to chat about the HBS Education Platform.

Please share what drove you to launch HBS Education and what we can expect from the services?

First and foremost, we truly believe in what we do. So, you can expect a lot of passion when working with us.

With 70 years combined experience and knowledge between us, we’re pretty sure we’ve seen and heard it all. We’ve worked through many varied business challenges in our time, and we’ve thrived. We want to share that!

Not long ago it dawned on us that we needed

to look at our business through a different lens. It’s really easy to become fatigued and stale when your focus remains the same. So, we started to change! We worked on our self-development in our craft, in the creative space and in the business space. We’re ready to share this wealth of knowledge, experience and learnings with other salon owners and stylists.

We’re blessed that we both bring different things to our business. Together we’re the perfect balance of creativity and commercial sense. So, we’ve harnessed our strengths, skills, and experience to develop a strong and dynamic education platform that will inspire salons and stylists across both of these facets of their salon business. Our dry-cutting concepts and unique way of approaching hair have proven to be our point of difference. Our mission is to support growth and elevate capabilities within the hairdressing industry by optimising and engaging salon professionals. By sharing and giving back.

You are passionate about coaching and supporting the Salon industry – from new start-ups to long term salons – what can you bring to salons you work with?

We know there are many ways to succeed. However, understanding what got you there isn’t always enough to keep you there. We

want to help salons identify their gaps, on the floor and in their business. We take this information to clarify their vision, make a plan for success, and develop the systems they’ll need to continue their growth.

What salons would benefit and how does coaching support take place? We truly believe that everyone needs a mentor or coach. The biggest mistake that any business owner can make is thinking they know it all. We still have a mentor, and we always will.

In our consultancy business, we offer a free ‘clarity call’ to precisely and concisely identify the salon owner’s business requirements, from staff training, hair services and everything in between. We also offer expertise and guidance for young stylists right through to senior stylists. We run masterclasses at our salon in Camberwell, Melbourne. Or we can come to you. Our Apprentice Elevation program is an online self-paced introduction for each year of the apprenticeship journey. It’s designed to take the pressure off busy salon owners and give apprentices a kick start to build their skills and confidence.

Please share a few challenges you are seeing salons needing support with. And without giving away all your knowledge some ways how you might work through these challenges.

The first thing salons need to do is a health check on their business. Break it down across all areas, from business practices, education,

staff, and productivity. The biggest problem we see is that salon owners can feel like a prisoner in their own business. Staff shortages combined with economic uncertainty can make it easy for despair and fatigue to kick in, and that’s got danger written all over it. But there is a way forward! Every business owner should have a clear vision, and a clear plan to move forward. It’s essential to understand exactly what type of business they’re in and to remember never to think they know it all.

The Salon Industry is ever changing, and the last few years has seen a decline of staff in the industry. How do HBS retain their team? Honestly, it’s what goes on at the top that matters. Let us put it to you like this, why should anyone want to work with you, and would you work for yourself? That will give you your answer. At HBS we always make an effort to understand the diversity and the challenges that we and our team are faced with, and we approach situations in a way that promised a positive outcome for all involved. We stand strongly by our culture and team, we really do. If they don’t fit, well they don’t fit.

How will HBS education up-skill apprentices?

We need to focus on our apprentices and give them the time they deserve. They need to feel part of the team and they need to be heard. At HBS we make it a priority to bring the best out of our apprentices, understanding that everyone has weaknesses and strengths.

Knowing how to position education so apprentices feel supported by the salon, school and personal life is essential. We have an apprentice program available that is designed to take the pressure off busy salon owners. This is an online, self-paced program that reinforces exactly what they should expect at every stage of the apprenticeship journey. It helps give apprentices a kick start and build their confidence.

Feedback from salons who have taken part in HBS Education? We’re often told that our education is like nothing they’ve seen before, simply because it is real and can be implemented straight away. It’s practical and also very commercial.

What does success look like for you both?

Knowing that we can open our doors every day and be really proud of our achievements. The 100s of people we’ve mentored, educated, and developed from young adults into amazing stylists, managers, and business owners. That’s the true sign of success.

What makes this dynamic duo work?

What’s the secret?

We’re so different, but we just get each other. We each bring different things to the business, but the most important thing is that we share the same passion and vision. And we certainly have a lot of champagne and fun along the way.

To find out more visit www.hairbodysoul.com.au/hbs-education

I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” …. But What Are The Consequences?

By Tina Winchester

It was the rocker Warren Zevon that coined the phrase “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” but what he didn’t mention was there is a hefty price tag.

Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial to our physical and mental wellbeing. Studies show that sleep plays a vital role in maintaining good mental health, and a lack of sleep can lead to a range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.

Sleep and mental health are closely linked, and one can impact the other in a variety of ways. Sleep helps to regulate mood and emotions, and a lack of sleep can lead to irritability, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, people with mental health issues often have difficulty sleeping, which can exacerbate their symptoms.

The relationship between sleep and mental health is complex and multifaceted. Research suggests that sleep disturbances may be both a cause and a symptom of mental health issues. For example, a lack of sleep can lead to an increase in symptoms of anxiety and depression, but these same symptoms can also interfere with sleep, leading to a vicious cycle.

One of the most common mental health issues associated with poor sleep is anxiety. People with anxiety often experience racing thoughts and difficulty quieting their mind at night, leading to difficulty falling or staying asleep. Additionally, a lack of sleep can make people more prone to anxiety and increase their overall levels of stress. Depression is another mental health issue that is closely linked to sleep. People with depression often experience fatigue and a lack of energy, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness and difficulty falling asleep at night. Research suggests that sleep deprivation may play a role in the development of depression, as a lack of sleep can lead to changes in brain chemistry that increase the risk of developing depression.

Overall, the relationship between sleep and mental health is clear, and getting enough quality sleep is essential for maintaining good mental health. There are several strategies that people can use to improve their sleep and promote good mental health:

• Establish a regular sleep routine: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can help to regulate the body’s sleepwake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep at night.

• Create a sleep-friendly environment:

Making sure that the bedroom is quiet, cool, and dark can help to promote better sleep.

• Avoid stimulants: Consuming caffeine or alcohol before bedtime can interfere with sleep quality, so it is best to avoid these substances in the hours leading up to bedtime.

(It isn’t true when you tell yourself you sleep better after a drink, the sleep you get is impoverished with less deep sleep and REM (Rapid Eye Movement) so you may be out for the count but without much benefit)

• Practice relaxation techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help to quiet the mind and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep.

• Seek treatment for mental health issues: If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. Treating these conditions can help to improve sleep quality and overall mental health.

Poor sleep over time can not only lead to mental health conditions it can contribute to chronic physical health conditions too, Warren was clearly not giving good advice!

Tina Winchester Mental Health Director - Mentally Well Workplaces Principal Master MHFA Instructor www.mentallywellworkplaces.com.au

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Becoming An Emotionally Intelligent Leader

By Angeli Marie Shaw

Running a business, especially a hair salon, requires more than just technical skills and business smarts. It demands the ability to connect with your clients, lead a team, and navigate the everchanging demands of the industry.

In the fast-paced and competitive world of salon ownership, effective leadership plays a pivotal role in the success of any salon, but it’s emotional intelligence that has begun to emerge as the true differentiator amongst our industry leaders. Even on a personal level, emotional intelligence can help you connect with your feelings, act on your intentions and make informed decisions regarding your own personal goals, so let’s take the time to explore the significance of emotional intelligence for hair salon owners and discuss how this, along with a positive mindset can enhance your client relationships, foster a harmonious work environment for your team, drive business and personal growth, and ensure long-term success in a competitive industry.

When it comes to building up your salon business, salon owners who possess high emotional intelligence are better at understanding and empathising with their client’s needs, preferences, and emotions. They actively listen to clients, provide personalised experiences, and create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. This awareness also enables you to train your team to connect on an emotional level so you can build trust and loyalty, resulting in repeat business, positive word-of-mouth referrals, and a strong client base.

If you’re a successful salon owner, you understand that your team is your greatest asset and with EI skills you can communicate with empathy, motivate, and inspire your staff, and provide constructive feedback when appropriate. You will understand the strengths and weaknesses of team members and assign tasks, accordingly, fostering a sense of purpose as well as nurturing job satisfaction. Cultivating a positive salon environment through emotional intelligence, salon owners can create a cohesive team that is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and achieving shared goals together.

We all know how dynamic our industry is, with trends, techniques, and client expectations constantly changing and evolving and as an emotionally intelligent salon owner, you can effectively manage stress and pressure, enabling you to make informed decisions, find creative solutions, and stay ahead of the competition. By fostering a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation, salon owners can position their businesses for long-term success.

Emotionally intelligent salon owners prioritise work-life balance, encourage self-care, and invest in their employees personal and

professional development. By cultivating a positive work culture, salon owners can nurture a team of motivated, passionate, and loyal individuals, leading to higher employee retention.

Emotional intelligence and a positive mindset are vital for driving business growth and adaptation in the hair salon industry. Salon owners with high emotional intelligence can anticipate and respond to market trends, customer demands, and emerging technologies. They embrace innovation, seek out new opportunities, and are not afraid to take calculated risks. These salon owners prioritize customer feedback, adapt their services and offerings accordingly, and continuously seek ways to improve the client experience. By staying attuned to the industry and maintaining a growth-oriented mindset, salon owners can ensure their businesses thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

So now that we’ve learnt more about emotional intelligence and its importance, how do we work on it?

Here are some of my tips to enhance it:

1. Self-reflection - Take the time to understand your own emotions, triggers, and patterns of behaviour. Reflect on how your own emotions affect your interactions with others and the outcomes of situations.

2. Active listening - Practice active listening to be able to genuinely understand other peoples’ perspectives and emotions and pay attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues, such as body language and someone’s tone of voice.

3. Empathy - Put yourself in others’ shoes and try to understand their emotions and experiences. Show genuine care and concern for their well-being. This helps you build stronger relationships and fosters understanding.

4. Emotional regulation - Learn to manage and regulate your own emotions effectively. Develop strategies to handle stress, frustration, and anger constructively. This enables you to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.

5. Social awareness - Pay attention to the emotions and dynamics of the people around you. Observe their non-verbal cues. Cultivate sensitivity to social situations and adapt your behaviour accordingly.

6. Effective communication - Develop your communication skills to express yourself clearly and assertively while considering others’ emotions. Use “I” statements to

express your feelings and avoid blaming others for why you do or say certain things. Seek feedback and use this to actively work on improving your communication style.

7. Conflict resolution - Learn techniques for resolving conflicts peacefully and constructively. Practice active listening, empathy, and finding common ground. Focus on problem-solving rather than personal attacks and blame.

8. Continuous learning - Emotionally intelligent individuals understand that emotional intelligence is a lifelong journey.! Seek opportunities for growth, such as attending workshops, reading books on emotional intelligence, and seeking feedback from trusted mentors, coaches, or colleagues.

Remember, developing these skills take time and effort. By improving your self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication, you can enhance your emotional intelligence and positively impact your life on a personal and professional level.

To sum it all up, emotional intelligence and mindset are invaluable traits for any salon owner or industry leader and by cultivating and working on it, we can build strong relationships, lead, and inspire teams, navigate challenges, create a positive work culture, and drive business growth. When combined with a positive mindset, we can adapt to industry changes, embrace innovation, and position business for longterm success. Prioritise emotional intelligence and mindset and see that you can indeed create a thriving business that exceeds expectations and stands out in a competitive market, you just need to be willing to do the work!

You can do it; I believe in you!

“What really matters for success, character, happiness and life-long achievements is a definite set of emotional skills – your EQ –not just purely cognitive abilities that are measured by conventional IQ tests”

– Daniel Goleman

Love & Bliss, Angeli xxoo

Angeli is a Holistic Empowerment Coach, Mindset Mentor & founder of The Bliss Coach. To work with me in 2023, get in touch by visiting www.theblisscoach.com.au or follow us on our socials @theblisscoach

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FINDING THE FIRE!

By Rex A.C. Silver

BEN KANE, like many creatives, was a little lost in his early years. The world looked a little different to him, he didn’t feel like he belonged… we all know the words to this song. He did have support and encouragement from family, enough to allow him to explore his interests and move in the right direction that led him to us, the hair people.

Ben learnt from a very early age the power, and the positive selfbelief one gets through liking what you see in the mirror, and it stuck with him. He didn’t know it at the time, but that attention to detail and that small dive into the phycology of what we do as hairdressers and barbers as a young boy, will go on to help shape the mind of the Ben Kane we know today.

A well-rounded man, confident in himself and his skill set. A smart operator that pays eagle-eye attention to the salon experience his guests receive. A generous captain who gives back to his crew and, to the greater hair community. A man who knows humility and cares for those less fortunate.

A man who found exactly where he belongs… with the rest of us hairy wierdos!!

THIS IS BEN KANE:

I grew up in a small country town called Maryborough in Victoria. Young Ben really struggled through school years, as I felt like I never really found my tribe, always looking for a group to fit in with. As someone that was bullied quite a lot about my appearance and weight this made me very self-conscious about how I looked. Also having my mum and dad both as teachers at my school didn’t really help my cause. Trying almost every sport there is, I soon found out that I wasn’t much of an athlete either…. then I found fire... as a child I was obsessed with lighting fires to the point that I was taken to the local fire station for one-on-one fire safety training. I then fell in love with skateboarding spending all my spare time at the local skate park, a little safer for everyone!

Despite all this I’m extremely grateful to have such amazing parents that have supported me through all my ups and downs as best they could and without them, I’d be a very lost soul.

How and when did you discover hair, and know that this was your calling?

I discovered hair at an early age I’d say young 12/13, I don’t know why, but I used doing my hair, as a way of feeling better about how I looked. I’d sit in the chair and point at the picture of Brad Pitt on the wall and wonder why I never walked out looking the same. Mum will often say I was the only one that got to go to the “good” hairdresser in town and I’d get my blonde tips done.

I never really thought about hairdressing or barbering until around 14/15 my dad who worked in careers counselling suggested about a short course coming to the school, so I though perfect way to get out of class. I was also heavily involved in art drawing/painting from a young age to then graffitiing or anything that involved some sort of creative outlook. I always felt like I saw things a little different to most.

“The fact that Wahl has been in the game for over 100 years and are the number one clipper brand worldwide should say enough, for me it’s also the quality of the product, Wahl’s diverse range of tools give you a clipper for every hair type, and that speaks volumes to me.” Ben Kane

I enjoyed the course I did at school and got offered an apprenticeship at the Stag Ballarat. This is where I fell in love with hair.

I am still grateful to this day to have been taught by the owner at the time Alan Roberts, a traditional barber.

Alan not only taught me the ins and outs of traditional barbering but also the importance of communication and building client relations.

Alongside this, David Kammerer, the now owner was also a key mentor in the beginning of my barbering career.

The Stag was an hour away from the town I lived in, so I found myself moving out into my own place at 15 meaning I had to grow up fast. This came with all sorts of interesting life lessons.

From here at age 20 I moved to the western suburbs of Melbourne where I learn the ins and outs of all thing’s hairdressing by owner Pino Burrone, Salon Vogue. This is where I really fell in love with cutting hair and the industry itself.

My next journey was onto help build/start/grow Rokkman Barbers, an offshoot of Rokk Ebony.

This is where I was taught all things modern barbering, fades, tapers, beard work, line ups from Jordon McKenny (@barbersdream) who I believe is one of the best in this industry.

I went onto owning my first Rokkman barbers in Toorak. Through this time, I was fortunate to have won the 2017 American crew all Star challenge which sent me over to Brussels competing internationally.

Having to deal with some personal issues I made my departure from Rokkman Barbers a little lost and not sure once again where I really fit into this world.

From here my road was challenging but what I will say is I never gave up, I never stayed down for too long and I never stopped trying to be the best version of myself possible.

Growing up my mum would always tell me anything is possible, follow your dreams and don’t ever give up. Having this outlook in life is most likely the reason I’ve never been a goal setting person as I’ve always believed that I can achieve more and learn more. I’ve never put a limit on what’s possible, I do believe in myself and my love for cutting hair but more so the clients that sit in my chair.

LET’S TALK SHOP....

In 2021 I met my partner Sherridan Kyle who had built “Bonnie and Clyde’s” in Gippsland. I found myself soon moving “back to the country” and helping build and grow Bonnie and Clyde’s.

We have an extremely talented team of barbers and hairdressers whom I’m extremely grateful for.

We pride ourselves in delivering some of the best work in Gippsland.

We believe that “the experience” is the most important part of coming into our shop.

We also promote a safe space/gender neutral environment, so everyone feels welcome when they sit in our chair.

TOOL TALK

Shears: For scissors I proudly only use excellent edges, I became and ambassador in 2018 and I have a huge amount of respect for owner Pete Walstab and Blade Smith Jaime Schultz and believe that their scissors go above and beyond but also their theory behind how to use different types of scissors is something you can’t go without.

I use a 6.5-inch Fuji for my point cutting a 7-inch Robin for my scissor over comb. I also like to experiment with the Gator and the Raptor for creating texture and directional movement.

Machines: For all things clippers my tool kit is aligned with WAHL WAHL WAHL!!

My first pair of clippers at 15 where the OG Wahl Super Taper. The fact that Wahl has been in the game for over 100 years and are the number one clipper brand worldwide should say enough, for me it’s the quality of the product, Wahl’s diverse range of tools give you a clipper for every hair type, and that speaks volumes to me.

I’m fortunate enough to hold every clipper within the range and have a love for each one as they all hold a purpose in my tool kit.

My favourite at the moment, is the Wahl Cordless Legend for its extended lever range, the Cordless Senior for the extra power and the Cordless Detailer LI for my sharp lines and close cutting.

What Haircare and Styling products do you choose to use?

Firstly, Uppercut Deluxe; I feel like Uppercut is one of the leading product brands in the barbering world. They’ve set a high industry Standard for visually appealing, easy to use products.

My favourite here would be the Styling Powder and the Salt spray for matte texture and movement.

I love the philosophy behind the brand, and I have a lot of time for owner Steve Purcell and his vision of the future of barbering. DeLorenzo Haircare, I love DeLorenzo not only for how kind their products are for the scalp but also for their doctrine around all thing’s hair.

I love that they are Australian made, vegan friendly and the company itself is still family owned, that really shows though when dealing with anything DeLorenzo. My favourite here would have to be the Elements Range.

When did you first get to educate and what does it mean to you to share your passion and knowledge with others?

I first jumped into education at age 23 when I completed my training and assessment qualification.

I started my first role at the Gordon Tafe in Geelong where Anna Penn, education coordinator taught me the ins and outs of teaching, delivery and assessment planning and creating my own training plans. This is where I really fell in love with education.

I believe that with completing this qualification, teaching within a Tafe really built a strong foundation to educate others. The reward of giving back to the younger generation of barbers and hairdressers is a blessing.

Through this space I started holding my own non accredited barbering short courses which became extremely popular.

In 2017 I was approached by Wahl to join their first Australian Education Team.

This was a dream come true for me and from here I’ve been fortunate enough to do big stage shows, events and hold workshops all over Australia.

In 2022 I was chosen to represent Wahl Australia in LA as a “future maker” a new global team formed of 10 country leaders bringing together a collection of haircuts to be delivered all around the world. Earlier this year I had the opportunity to spend the week in Brisbane at the Barber Temple sharing the collection to our talented Australian team.

I am also a guest artist for De Lorenzo and have been educating with them for 5 years now, this has seen me travel all over Australia holding advanced barbering workshops for all levels of hairdressers and barbers.

I hold a lot of time and respect for this company and the way they treat the artists they work with.

BEN ON COMMUNITY

I feel very blessed to have found a craft I love at an early age, the best part, I feel, about this industry… is that for the majority we are one big community of individuals, and I think that’s a beautiful thing.

What this industry has given me especially for someone once so desperate to fit in, is that it’s ok to be different, it’s ok to be an individual which has therefore given me a sense of belonging and has taught me a level self-love and care.

I’ve been lucky enough to of trained several apprentices and qualified barbers in this industry who have gone onto to become extremely successful individuals.

Giving back to this industry that’s given so much to me has been a big focus for me through my career.

I’ve been humbled to have spent time alongside my brother Nasir Sobhani (@thesreetsbarber) and Roseanne Rofaeel (@ christmasonthestreets) both of whom I can’t speak highly enough for continuing to constantly give back to others. It’s here, in their space, that I have really learnt a level of gratitude for the life I get to live. Please check out these amazing humans and what they do.

And what’s in the future?

I have a number of workshops coming up through Wahl and De Lorenzo which you can find a link to via my Instagram.

I have a creative shoot planned with uppercut for later this year, plus several big things I can’t mention coming soon.

IGORA COOLS:

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The IGORA Cools range is designed for clients who desire a flawless neutral to cool hair colour. No matter what your natural base may be, this range offers the perfect level of neutralisation to achieve your desired look. Whether you’re dreaming of beautiful cendrés, enticing ashes, or captivating jades, IGORA Cools has got you covered with its eight new shades.

What sets the IGORA Cools range apart is its meticulously developed pigment combinations. Each shade is carefully formulated to provide optimal neutralisation for every underlying tone. This means that you can trust in the accuracy and precision of these shades to deliver the desired cool result without any unwanted warmth.

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four cool shades in the IGORA ROYAL permanent hair colour range (9-11, 9-19, 7-13, 6-31) and three cool shades in the IGORA VIBRANCE demi-permanent hair colour range (9-12, 6-23, 4-33), you have a versatile toolkit at your disposal.

One of the key advantages of the IGORA range is its compatibility across different product lines. Whether you’re working with IGORA ROYAL, IGORA VIBRANCE, or even the semi-permanent IGORA EXPERT MOUSSE, you can easily utilize dual application techniques to achieve a true color match. The consistent numbering system makes it a breeze to work seamlessly across the different IGORA ranges, ensuring a harmonious and professional finish.

When it comes to hair colour, precision, quality, and innovation are paramount. Schwarzkopf Professional’s IGORA Cools range embodies all these qualities and more. With its expertly crafted pigment combinations and complementary shades, it opens up a world of possibilities for achieving cool, neutral hair colours that are truly exceptional.

So, if you’re ready to take your hair colour to the next level, it’s time to embrace the cool side with the IGORA Cools range from Schwarzkopf Professional. Discover the power of optimal neutralisation and unlock a world of endless creativity and style. Trust in the expertise of this industry-leading brand and experience the difference for yourself. Your hair deserves nothing less than perfection, and IGORA Cools delivers precisely that.

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Introducing the IGORA COOLS portfolio, with specifically-crafted pigment combinations, for optimal neutralisation, even on dark bases.

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NO WORRIES….

“No worries” is one of the most traditional Australian phrases. I have a young receptionist, Annie, who says it like it’s the only English she knows. She says it in the true style of the word though, relaxed, and confident, far from dismissive. Annie makes you feel like there really are no worries. I had a woodwork teacher at school, Mr Laguno, who wasn’t a fan of such laid-back Aussie phrases. He was much more a measure twice, cut once man, rather than a “she’ll be right mate” or “no worries” guy. To him it was careless more than carefree. When used like Annie does “no worries” puts you in a place of calm, nothing is too much trouble, everything is going to be ok. It’s not always the case and we are drawn to the Mr Laguna side of distrust.

By Gary Latham

I once had a nurse giving me a spinal tap, who repeatedly sprouted out “No Worries”, as the treacle like fluid slowly drained from my spine. I don’t know if it was the fact that she was a South African or that I had a needle between two of my lumbar vertebrae, but I found small comfort in her words, “no worries”, I was shitting myself.

I have always tried to have a little bit of “no worries” in my management style, Jayne has always naturally had more. I think staff want to know, everything will be OK, their jobs are secure, the salon is safe. It’s part of Leadership. Jayne has always been able to deliberately ignore bad behaviour, gives it absolutely no air. For staff members who get on the wrong side of Jayne generally they don’t even realise they are now living on the coldest place on earth.

There are many different styles of management and many different managers. When do you need to act and when do you do nothing. I often think management is like a campfire. Put a group of people around one and watch the fun begin. Some can’t stop themselves and have to add more fuel, turn logs etc etc. Others have a knack of letting things go until the very last moment, making a few small moves and have a raging fire in front of them. Some end up standing around a couple of scorched charcoal logs. When is it time to blow up and throw things against the wall to whip your staff into toeing the line, and when do you play it cool knowing full well

it was just an aberration. I heard once from a leading NRL coach that you can only get a way with one half time rant a season, after that they fall on deaf ears.

In my experience everybody wants a manager for everybody else but not for themselves. “No worries”. When Ali first opened SoGo she said to me “I don’t want to have to micromanage staff”. I thought this was a guarded way of telling me that we had micromanaged her more than she would have liked. I remember thinking if she thought she had been micromanaged than she would have been horrified if she knew just how much micromanaging I actually did. It was iceberg like. A year later she said to me “I can’t believe how much micromanaging I have to do with staff”.

Over the past few weeks, we have been inviting people to our 30th birthday party, sorry if we missed you. Amongst all the congratulations, came the questions of disbelief, mainly from ex staff. “I don’t know how you did it, putting up with all those staff. The answer in short is probably “No Worries”. Yes, as my vast reserves of patience are disappearing as fast as the colour from my hair, I must say I am still clinging to the last of my reserves. I take the advice of my mum from here. When asked how she coped with six kids, five boys and a girl, she answered “In the end Gary, I didn’t care what any of you did as long as you didn’t hurt anyone”. So, there you go 30 years bruised and beaten, but not broken. No Worries!

H a i r c o l o u r w i l l n e v e r b e i n b e t t e r h a n d s D i s c o v e r a n e w h o l i s t i c e x p e r i e n c e i n t h e s a l o n t h a n k s t o K I N E S S E N C E C o l o u r a n d i t s n e w v e g a n O E S + v t e c h n o l o g y . K I N E S S E N C E S C o l o u r i s a n a m m o n i a - f r e e h y b r i d c o l o r s y s t e m . I t s v e r s a t i l i t y a l l o w s f o r a n i n f i n i t e r a n g e o f c o l o r s e r v i c e s , t h a n k s t o i t s d u a l f u n c t i o n a s a p e r m a n e n t a n d d e m i p e r m a n e n t c o l o r .

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A new era at Sustainable Salons

By Paul Frasca

While I’m not keen to give away my age right off the bat, I do want to let you in on a little secret. It’s been 13 years since Ewelina and I took the Australia-wide road trip that would lead to the birth of Sustainable Salons.

And while we might not be in need of a makeover ourselves, we nevertheless thought it was time to refresh our image.

Our goal has always been to work in rhythm with our members and their customers - to create a better, more sustainable future together.

This was the guiding principle behind our brand refresh, which we unveiled to our team at our recent Sustainable Salons Annual Conference and to the public on 29 May.

Importantly, we’re dedicated to the idea that sustainability isn’t an add-on; instead, it’s built into how we and our members do business.

A circular economy for a better future

Since our inception, Sustainable Salons has gone from ‘just’ a salon resource recovery program to a for-purpose enterprise focused on getting people, the planet and profit working together.

In fact, we believe so strongly that the materials we recover from salons have value as part of a closed-loop, circular economy that we’re no longer referring to them as waste.

Instead, they are valuable resources. Diverting these resources from landfill is the first step in building a circular economy in which resources are used again and again without losing their value.

We have almost 1500 members who benefit immensely from Sustainable Salons membership. They’re seen as pioneers in sustainability, allowing them to attract new customers through our Sustainable Salons Directory, the number one Salon Directory in Australia, and New Zealand.

We recycle in places the standard recycling network doesn’t reach. We’re also the number one collector of ponytails for charitable wigs - giving confidence to people affected by cancer treatment and alopecia.

Needless to say, it’s been quite the journey, and I won’t hesitate to say that I’m proud of it. Proud of our team, our members, and our contribution to a sustainable future for our planet.

A fresh, new brand built with integrity

Once we’d figured out that this brand refresh was sorely needed, we set about working out how to bring our vision to life.

Core to this experience was understanding what our customers want from us. Our team worked tirelessly to provide unique input into the brand refresh process, focusing on what they’ve learned from our customers and their vision for our organisation.

This allowed us to ensure our vision is driven both by our inherent love for all things sustainability and by the needs and

wants of our members.

We partnered with some genuinely innovative service providers to ensure that our brand refresh was happening in a way that reflected our values.

Take our new typography as an example. We pay royalties to use this new font, and the designer has committed 25 per cent of all font royalties to preserving the rainforests and implementing reforestation programs.

We also integrated UserWay into our website. UserWay makes websites accessible with voice navigation, screen

readers, larger text, higher contrast, dyslexia-friendly software and paused animations. Using UserWay means we can rest assured that our website is accessible to all our members and customers of all abilities.

What’s changed?

So, now you know the why and how you’re probably wondering what exactly has changed. Well, the answer is pretty much everything. We’ve updated our logo, typography, messaging, and colour palette to better reflect what we’re about as an organisation.

Most importantly, we’ve chosen to be more inclusive in our imagery and language.

New avatars reflect the beauty of our network

Our member base has expanded significantly since our humble beginnings, and we felt compelled to reflect the breadth and beauty of our network in our new brand imagery.

Our new avatars represent people of all abilities, backgrounds, gender expressions, sexualities, and heritages. Our mission is, first and foremost, to make sustainability accessible to everyone. It shouldn’t take wealth or time to live a sustainable life.

Putting members first

As always, we strive to provide our members with a unique and invaluable service. We’ve kept and improved all the elements that make Sustainable Salons membership vital to hair salons across Australia and New Zealand.

Whether a salon space has a modern, boho, eclectic or chic vibe, members can market their Sustainable Salons membership with adaptable branding that suits their needs.

We’re continuing to collect hair, plastics, salon foil and more from hair salons and barbers, diverting them from landfill.

A better online user experience

Aesthetics aside, one of the most significant changes our members will appreciate is our

website functionality.

We connect over 70,000 consumers with reputable Sustainable Salons every year through our Salon Directory. We’ve made changes to the directory to make it easier for potential clients to find a Sustainable Salon.

Salon listings will now include:

- Direct booking link to the salon’s website

- Links to social media

- Option to include personalised imagery

- Opening hours

It’s not just the Salon Directory that’s changed. Our website is now more mobile-friendly and has an improved user experience and interface, making navigating the site more accessible for members and customers.

We’ve refreshed our Rewards Store through which members can shop for salon essentials sustainably. It’s all in one place, so whether you’re signing up for the first time or are a long-time Sustainable Salons member, you’ll easily find what you’re after.

We’re still the Sustainable Salons you know and love, but we’re approaching our mission with renewed vigour and energy. We’re more determined than ever to build a world that reflects our vision, and we can’t wait to bring you along on the journey.

Scan the QR code to visit our new website and see these changes in action.

How To Look After Your Self As A Salon Owner

By Brodie Lee Tsiknaris

Being A Salon owner can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges and stressors. I think back to when I first Started in Business almost 16 years ago and OMG so much has changed, Technology has made our lives easier sure but as an owner I believe it’s added to our stresses as well, Google reviews, Text messages, TikTok, Instagram Filters… it’s definitely made our mental load A LOT! Not to mention BAS , IAS, SUPER and Award changes. As we go into the second half of the year, I want to make it known that it is crucial to prioritise your mental wellbeing to ensure the long-term success and happiness of your team but also yourself. Here’s A few strategies to make this easier.

1. Recognise the Importance of Mental Well-being:

As a business owner, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily demands and pressures of keeping the Team and salon ahead, However, neglecting your mental well-being can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and strained relationships. Understand that taking care of yourself is not selfish; it is essential for your overall success and the well-being of your team.

2. Set Clear Boundaries:

Establishing boundaries is crucial to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Clearly define your working hours and communicate them to your team Just like they have a roster give yourself A roster. Encourage open communication, but also make it clear when you are unavailable or need time for yourself. By setting boundaries, you create a structure that allows you to recharge and be more present when you are working and give them the most.

3. Delegate and Empower Your Team:

One of the main stressors for Salon owners is feeling responsible for every aspect of the Business. Learn to delegate tasks and empower your team members to take ownership of their roles. By trusting your team and allowing them to contribute, you not only alleviate some of the workload but also foster a sense of shared responsibility and growth within the Team along with excitement and Career progression.

4. Prioritise Self-care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you relax. This could include exercise, meditation, spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, or

simply taking breaks throughout the day. Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity for maintaining your mental Fitness. What fills your cup up.

5. Seek Coaching or Build a Network: Running a Salon can be isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. Surround yourself with a supportive network of fellow Hair industry lovers, Join the Australian Hairdressing council find mentors go to events and Network with those who understand the challenges you face. Sharing experiences, seeking advice, and venting frustrations can help alleviate stress and provide fresh perspectives.

6. Invest in Personal Growth: While it’s important to focus on the growth and success of your Salon don’t neglect your personal growth. Engage in activities that promote self-reflection, such as reading books, attending workshops, or working with a coach or therapist. By continuously working on yourself, you become better equipped to handle the challenges that come with Business.

Until next time Take care.

Brodie x

By Clive Allwright

I have an exciting announcement, in response to the large number of messages I received on my previous blogs, regarding battling with addiction.

We are thrilled to unveil a new podcast series, “Straight Edge,” hosted by myself (of course) alongside Sheridan Rose Shaw (Mama West Salon - Melbourne), Simon Doyle (Area Studio - Melbourne) and our very own Hair Biz & Beauty editor Louise May. Assisting us on our new podcast journey are some very special guests, all under the guidance of our extremely talented & dedicated producer/ researcher, Amie Morris. Thank you all so much for making this magic series happen.

This ground-breaking podcast series, dives deep into the multifaceted world of addiction, within the context of the hairdressing, barbering and beauty industry. Focusing on areas such as alcohol, drugs, social media, gambling, sex, co-dependency, food, and many more. Alongside some very special guests and industry professionals joining us along the way. Please join us as we shed light on these critical topics and provide valuable insights and support for us professionals, or maybe for some of our own family members or even salon guests.

A brief overview of some upcoming exciting episodes

‘The Hosts’ Personal Battles: Addiction and Recovery In our inaugural two episodes, Clive, Sheridan, Simon, bravely open up about their own personal battles with addiction. They share their own personal journeys of recovery with Louise May. Openly discussing the challenges, they faced and the strategies they employed to overcome addiction. These brutally honest and vulnerable conversations set the stage for the empathetic and supportive environment that “Straight Edge” aims to provide.

We explore the pressures of the industry, family, common triggers. We share our daily strategies, programs we now follow to maintain a clean & sober, healthy work-life balance.

Unpacking “The Mummy Wine Culture”

In this thought-provoking episode of

“Straight Edge,” We invite a very special guest to delve into the grey area drinking culture. We discuss women’s drinking habits and the phenomenon known as the Wine Mummy Society. Join us as we explore the complex relationship between alcohol consumption, societal expectations, and the impact it has on women in our industry. We examine the mummy wine, Aperol spritz & Pimm’s culture and how the alcohol industry has directly targeted women for many years. How society seems to celebrate a culture of mothers and women using alcohol as a coping mechanism and social lubricant. We delve into the factors contributing to its popularity, the potential risks associated with excessive or binge drinking.

Hooked: Substance Abuse

Prescription or illegal drugs are everywhere in the workplace across all industries. Our hosts dive deeper into examining the influence of substance abuse within the hairdressing industry. We discuss how it can seriously impact all our lives, in our homes and businesses. We offer guidance on recognizing signs of addiction and fostering a supportive environment for both us professionals and our families.

Social Media: Obsession & Dangers: We are navigating the Virtual World In this episode. We shed light on the addictive nature of social media and its effects on our mental health. We discuss the challenges us professionals face in maintaining a healthy relationship with social media platforms, finding a balance, and protecting our well-being. We discuss the dangers of our children with such platforms as Tik Tok and Snap Chat etc. This episode is a “must listen” for any parent.

Gambling and Financial Wellness: A Hidden Danger: The hosts of “Straight Edge” are joined by a special guest. We discuss and attempt to tackle the world

of gambling addiction, often overlooked within our industry. They shed light on the potential dangers and discuss practical ways to promote financial wellness.

Food Addiction and Body Image:

Nurturing a Healthy Mindset We explore the complex relationship with, food addiction, and body image, bulimia even chronic related diseases such as type 2 diabetes & heart disease. Our special guest shares strategies for promoting a positive selfimage and developing a healthy mindset that supports overall well-being.

And many more exciting episodes to follow:

“Straight Edge” is more than just a podcast; it’s a platform for open conversation, support, and empowerment within our industry. Join us as we tackle all types of addiction head-on and provide valuable resources, expert insights, and inspirational stories from professionals who have overcome their own challenges.

Stay tuned for our first episode, where our valuable contributions, will kick off this transformative podcast journey together. Remember, you’re not alone, and together we can create a stronger, healthier, and more supportive industry for us all. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to gain knowledge, find support, and make a positive impact on yourself and those around you.

Subscribe to “Straight Edge Podcast” coming very soon and embark on this transformative podcast experience. Let’s break the silence surrounding addiction and build a strong like-minded community that fosters well-being and success within our industry.

If you would like to be a future guest on our podcast, please contact us directly.

IG @Straight Edge

“Straight Edge Podcast”. We’re talking all thing’s addictive, for hairdressers & barbers… Coming very soon!

Breakthroughs

By Sheridan Rose Shaw

This past week I have experienced what feels like my toughest week in business. It has been one hard conversation after another. I fired my first employee. I said goodbye to a long-term employee and on Monday, my 5th hard deep conversation… I fired my now ex designer and asked for a full refund. 6,000 dollars’ worth.

In almost all of these scenarios, I did things I wouldn’t normally do. I said BYE BYE to my chronic people pleaser who SOUNDED strong, SOUNDED confident, SOUNDED like a bad, boss bitch, but deep down, my heart was pounding! My nervous system was shot, and I felt like vomiting in expressing my truth. Then, the GUILT kicks in. I began to feel guilty because I was focussed on other people’s inner world’s and reactions, instead of focussing on the fact that I put my foot down for a damn good reason! I was being honest with myself and most importantly, I was being courageous!

It felt like an out of body experience as I leaned into being the person I’ve always dreamed of being, but the insides of my body felt like they were on the outsides and the feelings were HUGE!!!!! I am someone who has previously run away from pain, discomfort or conflict using people, places, and things. It’s no surprise I ended up in rehab for having a low pain threshold.

Though 10 years later, clean, and sober, it has been BUSINESS [and a bucket load of mentorship] that has fast tracked me to enlightenment because I have been faced HEAD on with my patterns of behaviour. Some hot, some not!

Business really is a series of fronting up. Over and over and over again. Doing the things you don’t want to have to do. Pulling people up on their behaviour, *including myself*. Making hard decisions that not everyone is going to understand, protecting yourself and trusting your instincts!

I’m proud of myself for being the person a lot of people are too afraid to be sometimes. I’ve had a lot of conversations lately with salon owners that are too afraid to put in boundaries due to the current shortage of hairdressers. I believe, by putting in the required action your salon culture will only grow from strength to strength rather than holding on to someone that isn’t a mutual fit. In turn comes great morale, respect for self and respect from others.

Sometimes the hardest, most uncomfortable weeks, can be the best weeks of your life. I call them breakthroughs. I celebrated all these breakthroughs by, buying flowers for myself [pink of course] and received the best gift of all – A deep sense of belief in who i am and where i am going. X

“Hi, I’m Tracey Bazzano-Lauretta. As a former hair stylist and salon owner, I created the EVY Professional range based on years of using hair styling tools and not being completely satisfied.

EVY Professional is the culmination of decades of experience and expertise and passion for hair.

The EVY range is all about giving stylists and consumers the very best and most technologically advanced hair tools that work to hydrate and promote hair health while styling.

I hope you love our EVY products as much as I have loved creating them.”

Tracey Bazzano-LaurettaFounder

5 Simple Steps To Write The Perfect Instagram Caption Every Single Time!

By Belinda Haigh

Captions are an important part of telling your content’s story on social media and a key driver of engagement.

Here are five steps to follow when creating the perfect caption for your content.

1. Know your audience: Determine who your dream client is, what matters to them, and what problems they are having that your salon’s services can solve. Understanding your ideal client will help you know what kind of content they are interested in, and what language and tone of voice will resonate with them best. Incorporating this information in your captions will help create content that speaks and attracts the right audience to your salon.

2. Use a hook: A hook is an attentiongrabbing statement at the top of your caption. Using a hook at the start helps capture your audience’s attention so that

they will continue to read the rest of your caption. Power words like ‘secret’ or ‘must-have’ add an extra punch to your caption headers to grab attention.

3. Give context: The body of your caption comes after your hook. It is used to give context to what your post is about. This is where you can set the scene for the information you are going to provide in the remainder of your caption.

4. Give the value: This is where you deliver the value or information you said you were going to in the hook. This is especially important for educational posts that help deliver valuable information to your dream clients. Two examples of giving value could be what temperature to use your heat tools on, or what order to use your at-home skincare in.

5. Call-To-Action or CTA: This is where

you tell your audience what to do next after they have read your caption. Do you want them to book an appointment with you, follow you for more tips, or drop their favourite look from your this or that post in the comments? Whatever it is, make sure you tell them what to do next and keep it simple!

If the thought of writing captions for your social media posts gives you anxiety, feel free to book a call with me and I can share some bonus tips and tricks with you!

Book a free 15-minute chat with me via the link in my Instagram bio @socialstandardsau

Written by Belinda Haigh, Founder & Director of Social Standards, Marketing for salons.

Writing engaging and relevant captions for your salon’s social media posts can make a significant difference in attracting dream clients to your business.

Content Is Now One Of Your Fundamental Business Necessities.

By Hayley Mears, Six Underground Media

It’s not a phase. Good content is the beating heart of your business. It is where every, potential, new client heads to make a decision on whether you’re a good fit for them, or not.

Looking at your Instagram feed says so much more about you than you realise and there are lots of untapped resources and missed opportunities you can be using to convert bookings, sales, and followers.

So, what are the ABSOLUTE basics when it comes to your gram?

The name for a start? Is it the same as your business name?

Did you know if your business name or handle is already taken you can still use it as a secondary name so you’re easy to find?Take a look at what I mean here.

Make your profile pic easily identifiable to you.

If you’re using your logo, make sure it is sized to the dimensions that fit the circular frame on Instagram.

If you have logo variations, swap them out regularly and remember to change them for various campaigns and holidays. Add a rainbow filter for pride month or add a border for other holidays.

ALWAYS make sure you have your location geotagged in your bio.

You only have the option of adding ONE link in your Instagram BIO so take advantage of tools like:

Linktr.ee or Later.

Linktr.ee will redirect your audience to a separate landing page where you can share all your other links. We recommend including:

Link to Book

Online purchase to gift cards and retail

Website home

Facebook

TikTok Maps

Email address

Your online reviews - anywhere and everywhere that you can create more connections.

Links to your team’s individual

The text in your BIO needs all the important stuff. Your sizzling intro into why your business has a point of difference. Make it fun and give it some colour with emojis.

Now the serious work begins. What content are you going to populate your feed with?

Let’s start with your stories. Create the best content groups and have an eye-catching

cover for them. Don’t let your saved stories go stale. No one wants to watch something you posted to Instagram Stories 182 weeks ago. If it’s old archive it. If it’s irrelevant, delete it.

Remember, stories are shown the view in highlights in the order of oldest to newest. Make your content new and exciting. Anything more than six months old must go.

One of the biggest gripes I hear from stylists and salons is: I’m too busy to take photos. I forget to get the before shot. I only really do blondes, so it all looks the same.

So, here’s the thing, you need to make it work. Use your education time as a content creation opportunity. Schedule an in-salon shoot to build up a BIG portfolio of content. Your audience doesn’t need to know what’s being posted isn’t in real-time. Save it up and pepper it through your feed when you need to break up the content.

The other more common feedback I get is “We don’t do radical work, so we have nothing exciting to share…’’ You’re not thinking about all the opportunities you have outside of what is in your column.

What about saving blonde offcuts to use for example toning swatches?

What about showing your salon sustainability processes?

Have you considered using your coworkers as models for quick up-do tutorials during downtime? EVEN better, show some local love to your other small businesses and do a reel ordering your coffee at the cafe before work.

Share your Spotify playlist! Create a video to show new clients the recommended parking areas close by. Where is your go-to for a mani-pedi in your area? Show that too!

The content is endless as long as you have the commitment to create it.

There’s still plenty more that I want to share with you…

Download our eBook for a comprehensive how-to guide for capturing the BEST in salon content.

This eBook is brand new with the latest features, tech hacks, and a library of ideas and examples of what to create when you’re stuck for content.

www.sixunderground.net.au/products/ salon-photography-instagram-ebook

The Clients Journey To Find You Online.

By Nicole Healy

In today’s digital age, the process of finding a hair salon has transformed from relying on word-of-mouth recommendations to utilising online platforms. Instagram, TikTok, and Google have emerged as powerful tools that give our clients a glimpse into the world of hair salons.

This article explores how these platforms have revolutionised the client experience, enabling users to make informed decisions and discover the perfect salon that aligns with their preferences and needs.

Instagram has become a hub for creative content, making it an ideal platform for hair salons to showcase their work. Clients can search for salons in their area using location tags or hashtags related to hairstyling. By following salon accounts, users gain access to a curated feed of images and videos, providing inspiration for di fferent hairstyles, hair colours, and salon atmospheres.

Instagram Stories allow salons to share realtime updates, behind-the-scenes peeks, and testimonials from satisfied clients. This dynamic engagement fosters a sense of trust

and transparency, giving potential clients a glimpse into the salon’s ambiance, expertise, and customer satisfaction.

TikTok has rapidly gained popularity among hair salons as an e ffective way to showcase their talent and connect with a vast audience. Hair stylists use TikTok to demonstrate their skills through quick tutorials, transformation videos, and before-and-after showcases. This engaging format captivates viewers and allows them to witness the artistic process behind hairstyling.

Clients can search for hair salon-related hashtags on TikTok and discover a multitude of content, from tips on hair care to reviews and recommendations. TikTok’s algorithm recommends personalised content, ensuring that users are exposed to salons that match their interests. Through interactive comments and direct messaging, clients can directly engage with stylists, ask questions, and receive personalised recommendations, enhancing the overall client experience.

When it comes to finding a hair salon online, Google remains a go-to resource for clients. With its search engine capabilities, Google

provides a comprehensive overview of local hair salons, including contact information, reviews, and ratings. Users can refine their search by specifying their location, preferred services, and salon specialties, enabling them to find salons that meet their specific needs.

Instagram, TikTok, and Google have transformed the client experience of finding a hair salon online. Instagram inspires users with visual content, TikTok provides entertaining and informative videos, and Google o ffers comprehensive information and reliable reviews. By harnessing the power of these platforms, clients can make informed decisions, connect with stylists, and find the perfect salon that caters to their unique needs, ensuring a satisfying and personalised experience.

If you would like to learn more about how clients can find you online using social media, let’s connect.

I offer In-salon and Online Education for Hairdressers and Salon Owners www.melbournehairblogger.com.au/ socialsalonschool socialsalonschool@gmail.com

When we are using social media platforms and search engine tools in our salon business to attract new clients to our salons, do we ever think about and put ourselves in the client’s shoes on what they’re looking for when it comes to choosing a salon to visit.

Emerging Technologies Impacting Your Salon’s Branding.

By Sarah Garner, Digital Bloom

Let’s be real. 2023’s seeing major technological advancements rapidly evolving and unfolding before our eyes. There’s emerging technologies shakin’ up every industry imaginable, and our beautiful salon spaces are no different.

Your branding plays a vital role in bringing in (and retaining) your clients, and these cutting-edge technologies are influential to the continued growth of your business.

From immersive experiences powered by augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to personalised recommendations driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and chatbots, the future of salon branding is being shaped by an array of innovative tools.

Instead of staying stagnant with a case of the old ‘fear of the unknown’, let’s explore just a snippet of how some of these emerging technologies out there right now are making a significant impact on your salon’s branding, the future of engaging with your customers, and how to continue to differentiate yourself in a competitive marketplace.

It’s kinda like unfolding the petals on a tightly closed flower bud. Once we open it, magically beautiful colours, textures, and scent awaits.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies are transforming the way customers experience salon services. Through AR and VR applications, your clients can now immerse themselves in a virtual salon environment, enabling them to visualise and try on various hairstyles, makeup looks, and nail designs before committing to a particular service.

The difference between AR and VR?

AR allows for virtual try-on experiences, where customers can see themselves with different hair colours, styles, or even experiment with different cosmetic products.

Whilst VR takes it a step further by creating a completely immersive virtual environment where customers can explore and interact with different salon settings. These technologies not only enhance your overall customer experience, but also empower your clients to make informed and empowered decisions and feel more confident about their choices.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Chatbots.

With AI, your business can provide personalised recommendations tailored to each of your individual client’s preferences, helping them discover the perfect hair, makeup, or nail styles. Virtual consultations powered by AI enable clients to receive expert advice remotely, improving convenience

and accessibility. Similarly, to your virtual Zoom consults, AI allows you to step up your game to become effortless and ultraconnected on autopilot.

AI-powered chatbots streamline your biz operations by handling customer enquiries, appointment scheduling, and even providing real-time updates on promotions or services. Enhancing your client engagement and happiness, but also helping you to keep consistent in your brand’s overall experience.

Haptic Technology.

You can take the sensory experience to the next level by using haptic feedback devices during treatments such as massages or facials. Haptic technology utilises vibrations, forces, or motions to simulate the sense of touch, enabling your clients to feel realistic sensations during their appointment. This technology adds an extra layer of engagement and realism to your service, allowing clients to feel more connected and present during their treatment. By incorporating haptic feedback devices, your brand can elevate the overall sensory experience, providing a unique and memorable service that sets them apart from traditional approaches.

Personalisation and Customisation.

With the rapid advancements in technology, your branding now has an incredible opportunity to shift towards providing personalised and customised experiences for customers. By harnessing the power of data analytics, you can gather information about your client’s preferences, past services, and even personal details to create tailored experiences. From personalised recommendations for hairstyles, colours, and products to customised treatment plans based on individual needs, technology enables your business to deliver highly personalised services that cater to each customer’s unique tastes and requirements. We all know, a high-level customisation as part of your service not only enhances the customer experience but also builds a strong emotional connection between your client and your brand.

360-Degree Video.

360-degree video technology (think Google Maps/Google My Business) is a powerful tool that enables your brand to offer an immersive and interactive experience with past, present, and future clients. By capturing the entire surrounding environment, this technology allows customers to explore a physical space’s ambiance, services, and styling techniques from every angle.

With 360-degree videos, your salon can

provide virtual tours that transport clients into your physical space, giving them a realistic preview of what to expect. Additionally, you can showcase behind-the-scenes footage, offering glimpses into the creative process and the expertise of your team members.

Sustainability and Green Technologies.

SN: Not to be confused with doing things because it’s ‘trendy’. Always ask yourself before making a decision like this, “does this choice align with my brand and personal values?”. Because if it does, then great, and if it doesn’t (no shade), authenticity will always win first and foremost, meaning, your clients and audience (and team members) will know you’re doing something because it’s trendy.

From eco-friendly products and packaging to energy-efficient salon equipment, many businesses are making conscious choices to reduce their ecological footprint. By incorporating sustainable practices into their operations, such as using organic and cruelty-free products or implementing recycling and waste reduction initiatives, salons showcase their commitment to environmental responsibility.

By embracing sustainable practices (as long as they truly align with your brand and personal values), your brand not only contributes to a healthier planet but also strengthens your brand reputation, demonstrating their dedication to social and environmental causes.

Staying ahead of these technological advancements allows you to create compelling brand experiences that resonate with the tech-savvy, digitally oriented clientele of today and tomorrow.

Sarah Garner is the Founder and Creative Director of Digital Bloom, an industryspecific branding boutique dedicated to making your growing hair, beauty, or wellness business turn heads for all the right reasons. Visit Digital Bloom’s website www.digitalbloom.com.au or shake petals with them over on the ‘gram @digital_bloom

EASY FOILS AT A TOUCH OF A PINK BUTTON

an electric foil machine doing the hard work for you

In a Limited Edition Pink colour, The 24*7 Automatic Foil Machine is the easiest and most reliable way to prepare your foils. It’s fully programmable with a choice of 4 foil lengths, 4 fold options, and a custom length feature. Made in the UK, it reduces wasted foil costs and staff costs on preparation.

$100 of every machine sold goes to support a great cause!

For every pink machine sold, Comfortel will donate $100 to the 2023 AHIA Vidal Sassoon Humanitarian of the Year winner. A $10,000 cheque will be presented to the winner’s affiliate charity at the 2023 Australian Hair Industry Awards – Business gala awards night on September 24th, 2023.

2023 WINNER’S AFFILIATE CHARITY

IMPORTS

UNPARALLELED POWER

The most powerful clipper and trimmer ever made. Silver Bullet HeadLiner Clipper and Trimmer are powered by super high torque 11,000 RPM motor for unbeatable performance. Cord/cordless, lightweight and ergonomic.

CLEAN BEAUTY FOR CURLS

More beautiful, healthier looking curls. Enriched with ultra-nourishing marula oil, Aluram Curl Haircare reduces frizz and adds definition. 100% vegan and free from sulphates, parabens, gluten and cruelty.

THE ULTIMATE COMPANION

True salon essentials from the brush authority. The ergonomic Brushworx Botanix Brushes make styling comfortably effortless. Ionic nylon pins and boar bristles deliver silky-smooth shine. Available in 5 sizes for all your blow-drying needs.

GO LOW IN GOLD

BaBylissPRO’s most institutive tools now available in limited edition gold. Ergonomically designed with ultra-low profile, BaBylissPRO LoPROFX Gold Clipper and Trimmer deliver hard-working durability with elegantly intuitive feel.

HYGIENE REVOLUTION BEGINS

A hygiene powerhouse for barbers, the BaBylissPRO UVFoil Shaver. Equipped with UV light technology, it effectively kills 99.9% of bacteria (when used correctly), setting new standards for cleanliness in barbering.

DEDICATED TO MEN

Introducing Screen for Man, the Italian all-male hair and grooming line. Quality ingredients, sophisticated formulations and sublime results. Styling products, shaving products, daily shampoos, conditioner and more.

THE PROFESSIONAL’S CHOICE

The number 1 in professional hair dryers! The Parlux DigitAlyon Hair Dryer delivers a distinctly digital experience. Optimising unparalleled salon efficiency. Now available

NEXT GENERATION BOND REPAIR

This is the bond repair revolution. epres Professional Bond Repair is faster, easier, better and more-effective. Cutting-edge chemistry creates the healthiest looking hair possible – in one simple in-salon, acid-free step.

CLIMATE CONTROLLED CURLS

A best-seller for frizzfree, fuss-free curls. The Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity

Gel locks in moisture and locks out humidity with patented “Anti-Frizz Nano Technology”. Ceramide enriched to define curls with flexible hold.

ABSOLUTE STYLE

More reasons to love Australian-owned 12Reasons. 12Reasons

The Absolute Styling is a collection of amazingly affordable, professional styling products, including dry shampoo,

A REPUTATION FOR RESULTS

Backed by 30 years of performance driven power, Silver Bullet’s Dakota Hair Dryer accelerates styling. Powered by a 105,000 RPM BLDC motor, this compact, self-cleaning dryer boasts selectable performance modes for hotter,

BRIGHTEN YOUR BLONDE

Get ready to revitalise! DesignME Fab. ME Blonde Fortifying Purple Shampoo combines purple micro pigments, nourishing ingredients and hyaluronic acid to fortify, hydrate and plump hair while neutralising yellow tones. Stronger, shinier hair from the inside out!

STATE-OF-THE-ART DRYING AND CURLING

Showcasing cutting-edge drying and Coanda effect curling technology. The Silver Bullet SuperStar MultiStyler utilises a controlled airflow to effortlessly shape hair, delivering gorgeous curls and opulent movement without excessive heat.

STYLE SECURITY

Professionally inspired, the Premium Pin Company 999 Bobby and Ripple Pins offer unwavering upstyle support. Strong grip, smooth coating and non-corrosive finish for all-day hold. Available in multiple sizes and colours for effortless integration.

HAIR SHOP

NEW FRÜ SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER BY JOIKEN

Heaven in a Bottle! Allow your hair to enjoy the pure, natural and plant-based protection.

• FRÜ COCONUT & VANILLA COLOR Shampoo & Conditioner 300ml / 800ml

• FRÜ POMEGRANATE & FIG REPAIR Shampoo & Conditioner 300ml / 800ml

• FRÜ AVACADO & MELON MOISTURE Shampoo & Conditioner 300ml / 800ml

100% VEGAN, 100% CRUELTY FREE, No Parabens, No Gluten, No Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, No Cocamide DEA, No Paraffin oil or Vaseline, No Animal Testing www.joiken.com.au

SERENA SALON CHAIR BY COMFORTEL

Experience style with Comfortel’s new Serena Salon Chair. With a powder-coated matte white finish resistant to hair dye stains combined with textured sand upholstery, Serena exudes sophistication. The unique design showcases contrasting wire and tube elements, standing out as a true champion. Serena’s frame features padded armrests and sand upholstery, offering comfort and style. The open backrest provides a relaxing space for your clients while you unleash your creativity.

Customise your Salon Chair’s look with our new Omega Round White Base.

To get the look, pair with Comfortel’s San Remo Salon Mirror, an archshaped Salon Mirror in Brass that complements any colour scheme, reflecting your clients’ love, and Comfortel’s Club Washlounge, a favourite for its modern design and chunky curved features in sandy beige upholstery, completing the neutral, laid-back look. www.comfortel.com.au

ZERO FOIL SHAVER BY PRO-ONE

PRIMER BY MR SMITH

Lightweight and nourishing, Mr. Smith Primer is a versatile prestyling spray suitable for all hair types. Delivering both heat and UV protection — Primer is designed to smooth the hair, add shine and prolong style. A combination of Quandong Extract and Desert Lime promote a healthy scalp while revitalising and protecting the hair. PETA certified vegan. Sulfate and paraben free.

www.mr-smith.com.au

GRIPPER BOBBY PINS BY JOIKEN

Pro-One launch the new ZERO foil shaver featuring a turbo rotary 10.000rpm motor, integrated trimmer, and dual hypoallergenic foils. New state of the art lithium -ion led battery level display with 120 minutes of run time makes this new foiler a must in any busy salon/ barbershop.

www.muimports.com.au

Easy to use the Gripper Bobby Pins, perfect when creating dramatic, messy or extra sleek elegant up do’s.

These Gripper Bobby Pins maintain a long-lasting spring and are rust resistant so you can reuse them again, and again, but most importantly they offer a firm and secure grip on thick, fine, long or shorter hair types. Built extra strong for professional use. Perfect to use when creating dramatic, messy or extra sleek elegant up do’s. Great for photographic studio, hair salon and home use. Extra strength. Strong grip. Lasting spring. Rust resistant Available in Black, Bronze, or Gold

Available in 40mm or 50mm

www.joiken.com.au

Samuel Johnson is embarking on another epic quest and the mocha angels, a division of mocha group is proud to announce that we have joined forces, once again with Love Your Sister to help provide Precision Medicine for cancer patients everywhere.

JOIN US ON PYJAMA DAY!

Dress up, wear your pj’s to work, have raffles, make cupcakes, walk for the cause, have fun and fund raise any way you like!

The hair beauty and barber industries, through mocha group fundraising, has already collectively raised close to $150,000 which has funded much needed research to find a cure for cancer.

“We have missed uniting the hair, beauty and barber industries to raise money for our beloved affiliate charity, Love Your Sister, and this year with two options for salons we are super excited about getting everyone involved, to reach our ultimate goal of $1,000,000. What are you waiting for...please join us!!”

Linda Woodhead

The Love Your Sister mission is to vanquish ALL cancers!

Founded in 2012, by brother-sister duo, Connie Johnson OAM and Samuel Johnson OAM 1 million-strong village of engaged supporters | Nearly $20,000,000 raised 100% of donations received go directly to cancer research and the offering of Precision Medicine

Creating A Memorable Salon Experience, Nurturing Customer Care and Acquiring

New Clients

By Kate Henderson, Owner of AHIA 2022 Australian Salon of the Year – Elysium Hair Brisbane

As salon owners, we understand that our guests are more than just customers; they are the driving force behind our passion. At Elysium Hair Brisbane, we have embraced the principles from Simon Sinek’s book, ‘The Infinite Game,’ to shape our customer experience cause.

We aspire to become “forever hairdressers” that our guests choose to stay with for life. In this article, we will explore the practices and strategies we have implemented to provide exceptional customer care, tailored specifically for salon owners like yourself.

Building Lasting Connections

At Elysium Hair Brisbane, we have carefully developed customer processes that uphold our commitment to excellence. These procedures not only create a consistent and outstanding approach to customer care but also serve as a valuable tool for onboarding new team members, helping them quickly adapt to our salon’s unique ethos. By following these processes, we establish trust and foster genuine connections with our guests, ensuring that we deliver the best experience in their day.

Intentional Practices

Central to our salon’s philosophy is the belief in building strong relationships. To nurture deep and lasting connections with our guests, we have implemented intentional practices that go beyond the ordinary. Some of these practices include:

Australia’s First ‘Meet Your Stylist’ Quiz: Matching guests with their most suitable hairdresser based on lifestyle, behaviour, and skill preferences.

Printed Welcome Pack: Providing guests with a valuable collection of samples and exclusive offers redeemable during their initial three visits.

Education Events & Masterclasses: Empowering guests with knowledge of effective hair care and styling techniques.

Free Hair & Makeup Sessions: Allowing guests to enjoy a glamorous transformation while capturing social media-worthy content.

Annual VIP Gift Bag: Expressing gratitude to our top guests for being a cherished part of the ‘Elysium hairy family.’

Pre-Purchase Credit: Adding value to prebooked appointments for the year ahead.

Guides & Information: Offering personalised aftercare resources tailored to specific services or products.

Treat-Based Rewards: Surprising guests with free gifts, service upgrades, or add-ons through our loyalty program.

Going Above and Beyond

At Elysium Hair Brisbane, we believe in surpassing our guests’ expectations by going the extra mile. Our commitment to exceptional service is reflected in the following practices:

• Bespoke Pre-Visit Questionnaire: Saving time and ensuring clarity by gathering essential information before the appointment.

• Complimentary Nibbles and Beverages: Enhancing the guest experience with delightful refreshments throughout their appointment.

• Relaxing Welcome Ritual: Inviting guests to unwind with a cup of herbal tea and a scented towelette upon arrival.

• Upfront Printed Quote: Providing a transparent breakdown of the service’s

cost and duration.

• Printed Consultation and Hair Plan: Facilitating clear communication and understanding between the stylist and the guest.

• Printed Hair Care Prescription Sheet: Equipping guests with personalised hair care, styling tips, and comprehensive guides.

• GHD Hot Tools Availability: Granting regular clients access to professional styling tools at any time.

• Recycling and Refilling: Encouraging sustainable practices by recycling and refilling old hair products.

• 100% Product Guarantee: Assuring guests that if they are dissatisfied with a product, they can exchange it for a replacement they love.

• Complimentary Product Samples and Before/After Photos: Enhancing the guest experience with free product samples and capturing stunning transformations.

• Free Fringe Trims: Offering regular guests complimentary fringe trims to maintain their desired style.

• Complimentary Post-Service Touch-Ups: Providing guests with finishing touches to ensure they leave feeling confident and satisfied.

Elevating the salon experience goes beyond delivering exceptional hair services. It is about creating a memorable journey for our guests that leaves a lasting impression. Through intentional practices, a commitment to going above and beyond, and a focus on customer care, Elysium Hair Brisbane has fostered deep connections with our clients.

Experience the opulence of Italy with ColorDesign®, a versatile portfolio of Italian-made, highperformance professional hair color that shines. Powered by the highest quality ingredients and manufactured with state-of-the-art technology, ColorDesign delivers vibrant and longlasting results while leaving the hair in unparalleled condition.

ColorDesign® offers the Stylist the option of either Opaque or Translucent results based on the needs of their client. ColorDesign® Permanent Creme Hair Color is available in (134) shades with four buffering developers (10, 20, 30, 40 Volume).

The Art of Brand Building.

By Phil Smith, UK

As all switched-on salon owners will know, products lead to profits. At least they do if you’re selecting the right ones, negotiating the best supplier deals and then selling them effectively to your clients. When done well, a strong retail offering can make up between 20 to 30 per cent of your overall profits.

Let’s face facts though; it is getting harder to make retails sales in the salon. The rise of online stores and aggressive discounting coupled with a tougher economic climate means that sales are in shorter supply. Selling products in your salon isn’t just a ‘nice sideline’. In today’s climate, it’s an essential way to boost your bottom line and you need to be smart to protect that vital income stream. So, how do you make sure that your products are securing you the best possible profits…

SELECT THE BEST

What does your salon stand for? Is it luxury on all levels? Is it sustainability and making greener choices? Do you focus on trends and product innovation? It’s so important to choose a product line that reflects your brand and that you truly believe in. Do you rate its performance, do you love its branding, is it good value for money? Making sure it aligns with your brand and vision is crucial if you’re going to sell it convincingly to your clients. There’s no point going with a highend premium name when your niche is more mass market. The more you and your team believe in what you’re using, the more you’ll sell. Simple.

STRIKE THE BEST DEAL

When you’ve narrowed down your favourite ranges, negotiate your terms with your product suppliers. You’re the customer here and there is plenty of competition, so don’t just take the first option you’re offered. Ask to see references and don’t be afraid to chat to fellow salon owners about how they find their experiences and what deals they’re on. Knowledge gives you buying power, and this is where networking can bring you rewards. Once you’ve agreed your terms, it’s important to assess things annually and re-negotiate if you need to. There are other incentives product companies will offer to get you on board. Don’t necessarily be wowed by introductory deals that seem too good to be true; do your sums and make sure the numbers stack up too.

SHOW THEM OFF

Where do your products sit in your salon? Centre stage as your clients walk into the salon or tucked into a dark corner? If you want to sell maximum products, you need to create a showcase. Your retail display should look immaculate - I’m not shy about saying that mine does. Make sure your clients can pick up and browse every product. It goes without saying that your products should be clearly labelled, priced, and cleaned regularly. For the ultimate customer experience, your clients need to see, touch, smell and enjoy the products you’re recommending. Even better, you want to make sure they’re feeling the benefits of them in their hair. The ability to sample ‘in the flesh’ is the huge advantage you have over online so your team should be sharing the excitement of new products with every salon visit.

STAFF MAKE SALES

Your team are your salesforce on the salon floor, but you have to make it worth their while. In my experience, people rarely excel at selling something for nothing, so I incentivise my team with 25 per cent of every sale. Extra sales leads to cash in your till so everyone benefits. Your suppliers should be offering training so that your team stays knowledgeable and up to date on the latest launches. Send your team along (or get your rep into the salon) so that everyone’s up to speed. When an enthusiastic stylist starts genuinely raving about a product, your clients will be far more likely to buy it. Educate your team on products and performance and also make them aware how important sales are to the survival of the business.

STOCK CHECK

Cashflow is king in business, so never keep more stock than you need. If you’re storing overstock instead of putting it out on the shelves, you’re tying up unnecessary funds. All stock should be on display. Advanced salon systems these days make stock control easier than ever. You should know what’s coming in, what’s going out and when you need to re-order so that you never run out of fast-moving lines. When negotiating terms with suppliers, check their lead times and make sure they will deliver weekly so that you can replenish when you need to, and nothing leaves the salon floor. Keep an eye on which products are your big sellers and ditch any products that are taking up space but not selling. And one final word of caution – while it’s nice to be generous with staff discounts on products, just be sure that bottles are not leaving the building without you knowing about it!

For the next in our series of masterclasses, one of the biggest business success stories in British hairdressing, Phil Smith talks about how you can boost retail sales in your salon…

pro one ze ro

• dual hypoall erge nic foils

• inte grated tr imme r captur es longer hair

• wet and dr y use

• stainl ess stee l blad es

• turbo rotary motor

• high sp ee d 10,000 rpm powe r

• 120 minutes cordless r un-time

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Navigating the Juggle! 3 Essential Tips for Salon Owners Balancing Work, Family, & Business.

By Alicia Ball

As experienced salon owners, we all know the struggle of trying to keep our businesses afloat while simultaneously managing our families and dealing with life’s unexpected challenges. It often feels like we are caught on an eternal mouse wheel, barely able to keep our heads above water. In this article, I will share three essential tips to help you find balance, reduce stress, and regain control over your life.

1) Prioritise and Delegate:

Let’s face it, being a superhero and handling every aspect of your salon is a recipe for burnout. Instead, take a step back and identify the areas where your expertise truly shines. Make those areas your primary focus and delegate the rest. Hiring additional staff, outsourcing administrative tasks that consume your time, or even getting a cleaner for your salon or home can create the space you need to concentrate on the critical aspects of your business and prevent burnout.

At home, involve your partner and kids in household tasks. Teamwork truly makes the dream work, and by sharing responsibilities, you’ll have more time and energy for both your salon and your family.

2) Establish Boundaries and Schedule Self-Care:

Effective time management is key to maintaining your sanity. Create a clear schedule that balances work and personal life. Dedicate time to work, family, and, most importantly, self-care. Communicate your availability to clients and loved ones, and don’t be afraid to carve out some “me time.”

Prioritise self-care activities that recharge your batteries, such as relaxing bubble baths, yoga sessions, or cosying up with a good book. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s necessary for you to be the best salon owner, partner, and parent you can be. You cannot pour from an empty cup, so make self-care a priority.

3) Cultivate a Support Network:

Running a salon can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Surround yourself with a tribe of fellow salon owners who understand your struggles. Connect with like-minded peers through local business associations, online forums, or social media groups. These communities are invaluable sources of knowledge, support, and inspiration. Share your victories, vent your frustrations, and learn from the experiences of others. Remember, we are all in this together.

Additionally, consider investing in a mentor or coach. These professionals can guide you, hold you accountable, and provide strategies to navigate the ups and downs of business ownership while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. A little guidance can go a long way in helping you stay on track and achieve your goals.

Finding balance in the chaos of running a salon, managing a family, and dealing with life’s challenges is possible. By prioritising and delegating tasks, establishing clear boundaries and self-care routines, and cultivating a strong support network, you can regain control and thrive in all aspects of your life. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Embrace these tips, stay positive, and keep pushing forward. With the right mindset, strategies, and consistency, you’ll find the elusive balance and fulfilment in both your salon and personal life. You’ve got this!

Is Your Workplace TOXIC?

By Kym Krey

We’ve all heard the horror stories from staff about working in ‘toxic’ environments. The lack of encouragement and appreciation. The absence of recognition and reward. The constant negativity or perceived mistreatment or even the blatant favouritism and inequality in who gets away with what.

No Manager or Business Owner believes their workplace is toxic… yet plenty of employees would beg to differ, so let’s take a look at what constitutes a toxic or unhealthy environment, the impact this has on your people and your business and what we can do to ensure that our environment is supportive and healthy.

What is ‘toxic’?

The term ‘toxic’ is typically used to describe behaviours that are negative, antagonistic, stressful, or even bullying. Think name calling, sarcasm or cruel jokes at other’s expense, raised angry voices and short tempers, constant gossip and ‘office politics’, excessive micromanagement right through to verbal abuse, belittling and intimidation. In these rather unpleasant environments, employees can be constantly in ‘fight or flight’ mode due to a lack of trust in what might happen next, communication between management and team is limited, guarded or nonexistent, blame culture is rife, and people consistently get away with behaviour that is harmful, dishonest, or unethical, or even downright nasty and disrespectful.

Why does this happen?

When we employ a team, we often bring together a group of very different people, who come from very different backgrounds and previous work experiences. If 1 or 2 of your team previously worked in environments (or came from families) where this behaviour happened consistently, it can seem very familiar, if not completely ‘normal’ to them, so of course, they bring it with them into your business when they join the team.

“Of course I’m going to give her a mouthful if she talks back to me. That’s what you do!”

“You have to teach these young ones a bit of discipline early on, otherwise they’ll never respect authority.”

“Nobody tells me what to do. I just tell them exactly what I think, and if they don’t like it, well, tough!”

“That’s just how I speak. They’re just going to have to get used to it”

I’m sure you’ve heard it all before. Unless you have clear and open conversations right from the start about values, expectations and what you’ll need from them in terms of behaviour in your workplace, and you act on it at the first sign of trouble, you can bet that you’ll get a few of these ‘nasty surprises’ as you welcome new team members to your business.

Combine that with a Manager who hesitates or avoids dealing with it, won’t have the necessary conversations for fear of losing a staff member or worse, contributes to the behaviour by laughing along or joining in and things can get out of control very rapidly.

Is it really that bad?

An unhealthy work environment is bad news for both managers and staff, having significant negative impacts on employees’ well-being and mental health as well as engagement, retention, and productivity.

Motivation and morale plummet, sick leave and absenteeism increases and the rate of stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression

surge. Eventually, staff turnover starts to escalate as employees find themselves new jobs and as we know, in the current market, they’re not so easy to replace. Wages costs skyrocket.

No one is going to perform well under those conditions so of course, productivity and performance plummet. Employees begin to resent their Manager/Employer, conflict among the team increases due to infighting and a general feeling of unsafety, and interestingly…. shrinkage (or theft) tends to rise. (Think ‘I deserve this’ or ‘You owe me’.) Another cost we don’t always consider is the damage to your ‘brand’ as an employer. People talk, and the grapevine is very real! There are even websites dedicated to reviews from former staff who rate their experience in working for you. If things aren’t great within your workplace, you can bet that word will get around and… you’ll wonder why you’re getting very few responses to your recruitment ads, month after month, while other salons seem to find the ‘gems’.

How can you prevent or recover a toxic workplace?

Toxic behaviour will occur in any workplace to the extent that it’s allowed to happen. This is a real reflection of the values and priorities of the people in charge and their willingness to either condone or stamp out the behaviour. If you now recognise some of these symptoms in your environment, here’s how to begin to clean it up and turn it around:

1. Recognise and acknowledge the problem: The first step is to own it by acknowledging that a toxic environment exists and that there will have been an impact on all involved. It’s time for some open and honest conversations initially between owners, leaders, and managers and then with the full team about what has occurred and how you can move forward from here.

2. Listen. For employees to rebuild trust there will need to be an element of forgiveness, which won’t occur until they genuinely believe that you get it, you’re listening and you’re willing to do what it takes to do better. If they have felt wronged, they will want to have their voice heard and their pain acknowledged and respected. Plus, you must truly understand what was not OK, how it got this far, and what needs to be very different from this day on.

3. Define clear behavioural expectations and values: It’s time to create your Team Code (of conduct). This will be 8-10 behavioural agreements created in collaboration with your team, that define ‘How we do things here’. A list of commitments that promote responsibility, respect, communication, fairness, and a supportive work culture. These become your ‘Rules of the Game’ with each team member signing on to live and breathe them every day within these walls. Then it’s up to management to ensure these are upheld and reinforced at all times. These will be tested, and they will be watching to see what you do. Will it be all talk, or do these values really mean something to you and are you be willing to be the leader they need you to be?

4. Guide their behaviours. Remember that some of your people will go home to exactly the kinds of behaviours that you’re trying to stamp out or may be in such an entrenched pattern, that they’ll easily slip back into old habits. Remember that while this is very serious, it may be the first time that someone has addressed these habits with them, and they may never have witnessed healthier ways to resolve problems or deal with frustration. They can’t be it if they can’t see it. Demonstrate the behaviours you want to see from them. Yes, correct unacceptable actions and do it quickly, but also guide them with better alternatives: ‘Here’s how you could have dealt with that issue’. ‘I would have preferred if you said something like this’.

5. Separate their emotion from their choice of action. Some will struggle accepting responsibility for the way they reacted, blaming their behaviour on the person they’re annoyed with. ‘I did that because he did this. It’s not my fault.’ Acknowledge their annoyance but show them where they could have made better choices.

“I get that you’re annoyed, and I understand why, but the way you responded to it is not OK and cannot happen again. This is what you could have done in that situation to have stayed within our values and shown more respect.”

6. Reward behaviours you want repeated. When you see staff demonstrating healthy, respectful, and supportive behaviour, acknowledge it and thank them for it. Praise them for contributing to a positive workplace and upholding your team values. When someone comes to you to say, “Listen, I think you need to know about this’, and tells you about a concerning behaviour or nasty comment they overheard from a team mate, make them feel like a hero for not engaging in the gossipy behaviour and coming to you instead. That shows real maturity and takes courage. And it also reinforces that it’s not who we are or what we do around here. That’s walking the talk!

Remove the weeds!

Dealing with toxic behaviour is like ridding your prized garden of weeds. All your hard work will quickly be undone if you allow them to remain, as they’ll rapidly overtake the garden and suffocate the plants (team) you’ve taken such care to grow.

Don’t just stand there and complain about the weeds, while you allow them to take hold. Pull them out, roots and all, at the first sign and keep doing it to ensure your workplace is weed-free from here on.

Kym Krey is a true Manager’s mentor with a fascination for human behaviour. She excels in the area of developing strong leaders and healthy, high performing cultures and she’ll show you how to build positive, productive relationships, clarify expectations and instil accountability, plus tackle those tricky conversations that we tend to avoid! Get in touch at kym@ kymkrey.com.au

Unlock the Potential of Your Hair Salon with a Digital Business Manual.

It’s one of those weeks where even an iced latte with oat milk can’t prepare you for what lies ahead at the salon. The chaos is palpable, and amidst the hustle and bustle, you find yourself grappling with an outdated and disorganised business manual. Sound familiar?

As you navigate through stacks of folders, desperately searching for important documents, the stress starts to build. The employee checklist from 5 years ago? Lost in the abyss. The contracts you printed in bulk? Nowhere to be found. And as you fumble through encyclopaedic folders, interrupted by random facial cream receipts slipping out, precious time slips away. Sure, you’ve attempted to create a business manual, but it’s become a relic of the past, unable to keep up with the demands of your dynamic salon.

But what if there was a way to automate repetitive processes, like onboarding new stylist, without repeating this nightmare scenario week after week? Enter the solution you’ve been desperately seeking: a digital business manual tailored specifically for hair salons.

Imagine a world where you can effortlessly onboard new team members, access essential documents with a simple click, and streamline your salon operations with ease. It’s not wishful thinking—it’s a reality waiting for you to embrace. So, put down that iced latte and take a moment to free yourself from the shackles of disorganisation and wasted time. It’s time to seize control, streamline your operations, and unleash the true potential of your hair salon in the digital age.

Streamline your salon operations. Picture this: you’re in the midst of a bustling day at your salon, trying to balance attending to clients, coordinating with your staff, and overseeing inventory. Amidst the chaos, important information slips through the cracks, appointments get double-booked, and you struggle to maintain effective communication with your team. The result?

Lost time, missed opportunities, and a potential dent in your salon’s reputation.

This is where a digital business manual steps in to save the day. By centralising important information, processes, and procedures within a user-friendly digital platform, it becomes your own virtual assistant: ready to help you run the salon smoothly and efficiently.

Let’s take inventory control for example. Maintaining optimal inventory levels is vital for any hair salon. With a digital business manual, you can keep a comprehensive overview of your stock including product quantities, reorder points, and supplier information. You can also create a simple inventory management system, track product usage, and so much more, saving you time and preventing costly stockouts. By embracing a digital business manual, you can bid farewell to the inefficiencies and frustrations that have been plaguing your salon operations.

Ensure Treatment Consistency and Quality

Consistency is the secret sauce that keeps your hair salon thriving. When your client’s step through the door, they expect nothing less than exceptional service, no matter what haircut and treatment they’re getting. But let’s be real—achieving and maintaining consistent service quality can be a real challenge.

Sure, you have a talented team of hair stylists but without a clear guide to follow, each of them may interpret procedures differently, leading to frustrating inconsistencies. That’s where a digital business manual becomes your salon’s secret weapon.

A digital business manual acts as a comprehensive guide that ensures all your staff members follow standardised procedures like seasoned pros. And the perks of consistent service quality? They’re like a fresh balayage for your business! First and foremost, it’s all about customer satisfaction. When your clients experience consistent, high-quality service, they feel like they’ve hit the jackpot. They’ll leave your salon with a smile, feeling like a million bucks, and ready to tell their friends all about the amazing experience they had. Cue the glowing reviews and a flood of new clients!

But it doesn’t stop there. Consistency builds trust and solidifies your salon’s reputation as a go-to destination for cuts and colours. Your clients can rely on your salon to deliver an outstanding experience, no matter which staff member they encounter. That’s the kind of reliability and professionalism that turns one-time visitors into loyal fans who keep coming back for more.

A digital business manual can ensure that and much more, even with staff turnover. When new team members join your salon, they can dive right in and quickly get up to speed by referring to the manual online - where you would have outlined a cohesive step-by-step that can be easily replicated!

Boost Your Marketing Management

You have a brilliant idea for a marketing campaign to promote your latest services or products. But then comes the daunting task of juggling multiple marketing materials, ensuring brand cohesiveness, and staying on top of various platforms. It can be overwhelming, to say the least.

Sure, you know the importance of effective marketing to attract new clients and keep your existing ones coming back for more. But let’s be honest, staying consistent with your marketing efforts is a never-ending battle. A digital business manual can not only streamline your operations but also serves as a reliable hub for managing your marketing initiatives. It’s like having a second brain dedicated to making your marketing life easier.

You can effortlessly centralise all your marketing materials in one place. From branding guidelines to promotional materials, everything is easily accessible for you and your team. No more searching through countless folders, designing marketing assets from scratch, or sifting through email chains to find that specific logo or updated marketing copy. It’s all right there, ready to be utilised. With your digital manual, you can quickly access pre-designed graphics, outline your marketing plan dos and don’ts, and ensure a cohesive and visually stunning representation of your brand across all platforms.

But that’s not all. The power of a digital business manual extends beyond easy access to marketing materials. It also enables you to track the effectiveness of your campaigns, gather valuable data, and make data-driven decisions to optimise your strategies. With real-time insights at your fingertips, you can make informed adjustments, refine your marketing initiatives, and drive even better results.

Facilitate Scalability and Expansion

Scaling your hair salon operations and expanding into new locations is an exciting endeavour that can turn your dreams into reality. However, it’s no secret that this journey is not without its fair share of challenges. Each new location presents unique hurdles, from ensuring consistent service quality to maintaining smooth operations. In essence, the process of replicating processes and procedures across multiple locations can quickly become a logistical nightmare. That is, until you implement a digital business manual.

With a digital business manual, you gain the ultimate flexibility to effortlessly replicate your proven processes and procedures across all your salon locations. Think of it as a blueprint that guides your team in delivering exceptional service, regardless of where your salons are situated. With this powerful tool, you can establish and maintain the same

level of excellence that your customers have come to expect, ensuring that your salon’s reputation shines through in every interaction.

Furthermore, a digital business manual fosters collaboration among teams and ensures that everyone in your expanding salon family is on the same page, working together towards a shared vision of success. This level of consistency and quality control becomes even more critical as you scale your operations, allowing your brand’s essence and values to resonate with customers at every touchpoint.

Expanding your hair salon empire isn’t just about adding more locations—it’s about unlocking new revenue potential and extending your market reach. Each new location provides a unique opportunity to tap into different customer bases and establish your brand presence in diverse areas. By utilising a digital business manual to maintain consistency and quality control, you solidify your position as a trusted and reliable beauty destination, both locally and beyond. In a nutshell, this powerful tool seamlessly replicates your success, ensures consistency throughout your expansion, and enables you to foster quality control as you embark on this thrilling journey.

Setting Up Your Digital Business Manual

Setting up a digital business manual for your beauty salon may feel like a daunting task. The fear of the unknown and the overwhelming thought of where to start can make it seem like a mountain to climb. But you don’t have to face it alone. We know that “Tech” isn’t really your thing but there are ways to take the stress out of creating your digital business manual.

Step 1: Choose Your Online Platform

With a myriad of software options available, it can be overwhelming to select the right one. However, simplicity should be your guiding principle. Start by considering platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Notion. These user-friendly tools will allow you to gather and organise all your information in one digital space.

Step 2: Declutter Your Folders

Take a deep breath and tackle your business manual one step at a time. Begin by creating a list of the most crucial information you need to record for your salon. Start with what comes to mind naturally. Then, review your outdated manual(s) and identify what you want to retain and what can be let go.

Step 3: Build Your Digital Business Manual

Thanks to the progress made in steps 1 and 2, you now have a wealth of information ready to be updated, organised, and uploaded online. Take it at your own pace and break it down into manageable sections if necessary. Remember, there’s no need to complete your Digital Business Manual in one go. Once it’s finished, bid farewell to the hassle of sifting through stacks of antiquated folders. Everything you need will be just a few clicks away, easily accessible, and up to date.

If the idea of transitioning your business manual to a digital version still feels overwhelming, fret not. We’re here to assist you. Our Digital Business Manual Systems provide access to pre-built pages, platforms, and dedicated support to help you create and organise your procedures and processes. We’ve witnessed first-hand the incredible transformations that occur when salon owners unlock the full potential of their businesses. A digital business manual is a powerful tool that can propel your hair salon to new heights. Discover more by scanning the QR code below.

Tech Tool: Tango

Tango is a powerful and user-friendly tech tool that seamlessly integrates with your digital business manual, enhancing its functionality and simplifying your salon operations. This innovative tool allows you to capture and annotate screenshots of procedures and steps with ease, creating visual guides within your manual. From treatment delivery to customer communication, Tango streamlines tasks, making your salon more efficient and effective. The best part? Tango is free to use, providing you with an accessible and invaluable resource to elevate your hair salon to new heights of success. Embrace Tango and experience the transformative power it brings to your business.

www.www.tango.us

Digital Health Co blend their hair and beauty background and tech expertise to bring you curated, effective, and growthcentric digital solutions. They understand all-too-well your treatments and services, your clients’ needs, and your business goals. Learn more about Digital Health Co

www.digitalhealthco.com.au/mocha

Bridging The Gap!

By Kerrie Di Mattia

In the ever-evolving world of hair and beauty, one thing remains constant: the need for fresh ideas and a diverse range of perspectives. Enter the realm of intergenerational management, where experienced industry veterans and young, innovative minds join forces to create magic. In this article, let’s explore the delightful dynamics and incredible benefits of intergenerational management in the hair space.

Get ready to embrace the synergy between wisdom and youthful exuberance!

I recently attended our favourite Hairy eventHAIR FESTIVAL in Sydney. And I made the most of every moment!!

I attended 3 fantastic AHC events prior and numerous education hubs during Festival with my team, AND you guessed it, I learned all about ‘AI’ aka artificial intelligence and I was instantly hooked and just had to give it a whirl!!!

Hence the above introduction that sounds very cool… but sadly not a lot like me!

It was a week of growth, education, communication and connection with old friends and new, and not only did it fill my cup for yet another year, it absolutely brought home to me that my job as a salon owner and mentor is ever evolving and in order to survive, let alone thrive in business today I believe that I not only have to, but can be excited by, the opportunity to learn, pivot and grow through change, to not only learn the love language of today’s team members to maintain a healthy happy salon culture, but to embrace it and in the process become a better version of myself.

Now you’ve all heard a paragraph or two of this exact spiel from me before, numerous times in fact and I promise there is NO AI involved! But do yourself a favour and read on, it’s evolved, and this may just be the time you need to hear it the most, the time it really settles in and has the impact I hope it will!

I believe one of my primary jobs as a salon owner and one of the most successful ways I’ve found to maintaining a great salon/team Culture - is to treat my team as if they were MY clients….

When we sit with a client our intention is to HEAR them!

We start with a great consultation. WE…

LISTEN to their needs. CARE about what’s important to them. WORK OUT what issues they are having. HELP them move toward a solution. PROVIDE a great experience. PLAN their future with your salon.

And we do this automatically, it’s what we know, and we recognise it as one of the most important moments of connection and communication of a client’s experience in our salon.

But when it comes to our team, the ones that help us build our business and look after our clients every day, do we approach them the same way?

Is our intention to Hear Them??

I’m a salon owner just like you and I know only too well the challenges of small business, dealing with the day to day running of a salon that employs a bunch of very diverse humans from 16 to 60!

In my case my team ranges in age from 1636 and I am 57 - A Gen X trying to navigate, mentor and grow Gens Z through to Alpha on the daily!!

As salon owners and mentors, if we are going to throw our hat in the ring, we need to be on board with the fact that the “ring” is constantly changing!

As an industry one of our biggest struggles is retaining apprentices and I believe a great deal of this is due to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and ineffective communication, each generation have distinct communication styles, wants, and needs and

as salon owners regardless of where we sit on the generation scale, we need to look at what it is that young people coming into our industry truly expect!

We need to be clear about what our industry can offer them and when and what they can expect from different stages of their journey.

Let me cut to the chase here - I REALLY want you to pick up what I’m putting down …

Our world of hair is truly remarkable. It’s an ever-evolving realm that embraces diversity, creativity, and innovation, and at the heart of this vibrant industry lies a unique dynamic that I believe is one of our true advantages - the collaboration between different generations.

Intergenerational Management breathes life into our industry, blending the wisdom of experience with the joy of youth and honestly at the risk of offending a few people - if you are a salon owner still using phrases like “back in my day” and “Young kids these day have no work ethic” then either get onboard with the new landscape, forge forward and enjoy success or excuse my French - get out of the fucking game!

So, here’s where you go back and revisit the care and attention you afford your clients, the care and attention that keeps your books full…. See above.

And ask yourself again - Are you willing to run the risk of losing valuable team members by NOT offering the same care and attention to those who stand behind the chair as you do a client sitting in it?

Kez x

To book a discovery session or chat further about today’s topic email kez@totalcoachingacademy.com

Get more out of everyday with Fresha’s scheduling software built for your business.

If you’re constantly trying to manage your marketing, your clients and your schedule across several platforms, good news: you don’t have to. With Fresha’s marketplace and booking software for salons, everything’s in one place, from your marketing to your payments and scheduling. That means you can spend less time on admin and focus on growing your business. Best of all: it’s subscription free.

Read on to find out how Fresha can help you and your team manage your salon’s busy schedule.

Stay on top of your schedule anytime, anywhere

Your calendar is one of your most important tools, so you should be able to access it whenever and however you need. When you use Fresha’s scheduling software, every feature within the calendar is unlimited: team members, locations, clients, bookings, inventory and reporting. Everyone from the owner to the most junior staff member can use their login to access to it on any device with an internet connection. Since Fresha is so easy to use, everyone will know exactly what their schedules look like – it’s not just the business owner who’s in control. You can also sync your Fresha schedule to your personal calendar and view all your commitments in one place. And your clients can see your availability and book an appointment, 24/7. All their appointment information connects in real time to your Fresha account, and any notifications you’ve set up will be automatically triggered. You can set up requests for upfront payments when

they book, and if a client hasn’t paid yet, you can send them a reminder in one click.

Get more value out of your time with less effort

To help clients better manage their schedules, you can let them book several months in advance, and also allow them to reschedule up to 24 hours in advance of their appointment. These settings will also help you plan for busy seasons and staff holidays, and minimise no-shows.

When you’ve got your online schedule up and running with Fresha, you’ll be able to list your salon on our online marketplace where we’ve processed more than 700 million bookings to date. So when potential new clients are searching for treatments online in your area, your salon will show up.

Delight clients from start to finish

Using Fresha’s all-in-one software means you can treat your clients to a smooth, simple booking experience. You can keep in touch with them via automatic appointment notifications, and send thank you messages following their appointments.

You can also encourage clients to book available appointment slots with offers, discounts and dynamic pricing. Applying off-peak pricing to slots that fall during quieter periods in your salon encourages flexibility when your clients are booking, and it can fill space left behind by last-minute cancellations.

Stay in the know with your reports

A big part of growing your business is having a clear picture of your salon’s performance. Fresha’s reporting tools can help with that.

Not only can you generate marketing reports, but you can view sales and service reports based on your scheduling data to spot trends at your salon.

Those reports track every sale you make, as well as every service your clients book. You can identify the most popular treatments, what times tend to be the busiest, who on your team is booked more frequently, and who is generating the most revenue. All that information can help you make important business decisions about staffing, resources and scheduling.

Get the most from Fresha’s complete ecosystem

With scheduling software, marketing tools and payment processing, everything you need to seamlessly run your salon is built into the Fresha platform. You won’t need any other system or subscription to attract new clients, maintain relationships with your current ones, and achieve your business goals.

If you’re looking for a better way to manage your salon’s schedule, look no further than Fresha’s scheduling software. The ability to access it on the go, make more informed decisions, and improve the way you communicate with your clients will help your business run more smoothly and let you get back to caring for your clients.

Sign up to Fresha today.

Between managing your team’s time and clients’ changing schedules, chances are your salon’s diary has a lot of moving parts. And since time is money, you’ll want to maximise every single day with minimal room for error.