Year 15 Issue 4
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REGULARS 12 Editors Letter 22-24 Industry News 113 Dateline City
CONTENTS
INTERNATIONAL FEATURE 14-16 Life of Guy 30 Karoliina Saunders with Pauline McCabe 64 The Open Eye with Robert Masciave, UK
www.ghdhair.com/au
ON THE COVER 72 New ghd Unplugged
FEATURE 18-20 20 Minutes with Tom White 28 Healthy Habits with Kylie Dwyer 68 When Colour Is In Your DNA AHIA CREATIVE 32-33 AHIA Winners 34 Hot Shots Team 2021/22 36-44 Meet the Winners 62 Spotlight on a HotShot – Elie Kashi PROFILE 46 Ed…Ucation + Co 48 Colour Collab 50 Adapting Seasonal Trends By Kristie Kesic 52 Scalp health 101 By Simone Lee 76 Sip & Style Co SALON PROFILE 56 A Kaleidoscope Of Colour By Anthony Gray 58 The Hair Pin 60 Dream Big COLLECTION 69 Spirit – A Collection By Affinage Professional
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PRODUCT PROFILE 74 A Whole New Dimension in Lightening – Goldwell 78 Outrageously Punk – M&U Imports 82 Forecasting Hair Fashion Trends With Dan Lepore – Muk Hair
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BLOG SPOT 86 Embracing Change By Brodie Lee Tskiknaris 87 Emotional Dumping By Dario Cotroneo 88 Fabulous, 50 And Fearsome By Jenni Tarrant 89 Attracting Our Future By Clive Allwrite 90 Embrace Your Explorers By Paul Frasca 91 It Takes A Village By Gary Latham BUSINESS 92 The Business of Influencers 96 Why Social Media Shouldn’t Be Your Only Marketing Platform By Rachel Medlock 98 Dealing With A Copycatter? By Sarah Garner 100 Stacking The Odds By Lisa Conway 102 What Is Your Job By David Watts 104 I’m The Manager… But What’s My Job? By Kym Krey 106 The 6 Most Expensive Worlds In Business By Faye Murray 108 The Circles Way – Financials and KPI’s By Sharlene Lee 110 The Tenant’s Dilemma By Kelly Cunningham 111 Is It Best To Specialise in One Area Of Hair Or Hairdressing As A Whole By Larissa MacLeman 112 Mindset Matters – Part 1 By Angeli Marie Shaw
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DELORENZO.COM.AU
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DELORENZOHAIRCARE
Linda Woodhead linda@mochapublishing.com.au
EDITOR
Louise May louise@mochapublishing.com.au
ADVERTISING MANAGER Nina Barbara nina@mochapublishing.com.au
ART DIRECTOR
Kellie Woodhead kellie@mochapublishing.com.au
ADMINISTRATION
Jess Richmond jess@mochapublishing.com.au
CONTRIBUTORS
Kristie Kesic Simone Lee Anthony Gray Brodie Lee Tskiknaris Dario Cotroneo Jenni Tarrant Clive Allwrite Paul Frasca Gary Latham Rachel Medlock Sarah Garner Lisa Conway David Watts Kym Krey Faye Murray Sharlene Lee Kelly Cunningham Larissa Macleman Angeli Marie Shaw
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HAIR BIZ, Beauty Biz & Barber Shop Hair Biz is published four times a year by mocha publishing ABN 65 091 846 189 No Part of the publication may be reproduced in any manner or form without written permission. Hair Biz does not accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies, original artwork or other material. The views expressed in Hair Biz are not necessarily those of the publisher. No responsibility will be accepted if the publication is delayed or prevented by factors beyong the control of the publisher. No responsibility will be accepted for errors in copy, or for any loss arising from the failure of an advertisement or any part thereof to appear. © 2021 mocha publishing All rights reserved.
EDITOR’S LETTER
PUBLISHER
What a huge couple of months we have had since my last editors letter! My head is still spinning with all that we’ve had on, and there is still so much yet to come! It was disappointing when we all heard that Hair Festival had to be postponed, but totally understandable with so many exhibitors, competition entrants and visitors coming from Victoria, which had been placed into lockdown once again. While the iconic Queens Birthday weekend may not have had a trade show and education offerings in June, as planned, Hair Festival has announced its new dates as September and mocha were still able to forge ahead with the inaugural AHIA Creatives Gala Night! The momentum of excitement celebrating the industry’s creatives, was an opportunity for the hairdressing community to come together after a long hiatus and welcome guests from all over Australia. The timing could not have been better with some guests managing to make it from Victoria and with the biggest show Mocha have ever had the pleasure of hosting, we got in just before the rest of the country succumbed to Covid lockdowns! It was a phenomenal night, not to mention quite emotional and so very special for all finalists, winners, sponsors, media and guests. Thank you again to our sponsors Revlon Professional, ghd Professional, Excellent Edges and Amazing Hair Australia; The Finalists and Winners, Adam Williams for being the most outstanding MC on the night and Kellie and Linda Woodhead... what can I say? You both totally rock… and certainly know how to host an event! This month’s Hair Biz is packed with lots of interesting reads. First up we spend 20 Minutes With… The always entertaining, Tom White. He takes us through his
life journey and talks about his new love, his salon, Same Same But Different. We have a beautiful soul, Kylie Dwyer, who talks about work/life balance in our Healthy Habits feature and we get an insight into Edwards + Co, their Emerging Academy and their internal Apprentice of the Year Program. We take a look at Unity Hair Education and feature some amazing local salons and their owners. Crossing the globe for our International Feature on Guy Kremer, Talent Spotting with Pauline McCabe who features the lovely Karoliina Saunders, our new Open Eye with Robert Muscaive. Following up on all that amazingness, is our business writers and bloggers, social media, branding and mindset experts, as well as the newly announced Hot Shots Winners for 21/22 and all the Winners of The AHIA Creatives. I hope you thoroughly enjoy this Edition and before I sign off, I would love to say how proud and blessed I feel to be a part of such an awesome industry. Each and every one of you, are amazing. Much love,
Louise xox Louise May, HAIRBIZ EDITOR
Ti ck e t s o n
! W O N E SAL
w w w.m o c h a p u b l i s h i ng.co m /s h o p Finalists Announced 23rd August 2021
Winners Announced at the AHIA Gala Awards 10th October 2021
Gold Coast Convention & Exhibiiton Centre, Gold Coast, QLD www.australianhairindustryawards.com.au
LIFE F O GUY Hailing from France, Guy Kremer has become one of the most notable names in the UK hair scene. With a career steeped in glamour and luxury, his story is one of rich rewards and notable successes. Guy Kremer is a name that has become synonymous with opulence and grandeur. His brand of hairdressing is elegant and glamorous, his long-established Winchester salon smart and exclusive. He makes no apologies for loving life’s luxuries. Whether that’s art or lavish food or fancy cars, Guy Kremer is a man who was always destined to live the high life. Despite that, Guy’s early years in the small French town of Talange on the borders of Germany and Luxembourg, were not quite so sophisticated. Perhaps one of the only tastes of the well-to-do lifestyle that awaited was a regular trip to the hair salon with his mother. As was customary at the time, she would travel every week without fail to have her hair doused in lotion and set in its perfectly coiffed style. “I fell in love with hair way back then,” Guy recalls, “As a young boy I can remember sweeping up hair and playing with the shampoo bottles. I really enjoyed being in the hair salon.”
“I’M TOTALLY INVOLVED IN EVERY ASPECT OF THE SALON AND CONTINUALLY INVEST TO KEEP STANDARDS HIGH”
GUY KREMER
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Guy showed promise at art in school, but creative pursuits aside, he couldn’t wait to leave. Instead, he decided to follow his hairdressing dreams and took an apprenticeship at the age of 14. Just a few years later, when he was 18 years old, Guy’s father sadly died. Worried that his modest hairdressing income wasn’t enough to support a prosperous future, his mother encouraged Guy to train in accountancy. He lasted three years, but the hairdressing bug had bitten and Guy couldn’t shake the attraction back to the craft that had first captivated him.
In a twist of good fortune, Guy set his sights on the UK. “I was really into music in my late teens and most of the artists I was listening to were singing in English,” Guy remembers. Already speaking French and German, English was a language that alluded him and he decided that immersing himself in the country was the best way to learn those lyrics. Armed with a suitcase and some rudimentary hairdressing skills, Guy stepped off the plane from France in 1974 and straight into a role that would shape his destiny. Hans of Vienna was a private hair salon owned by Lady Forwood – wife of Sir Dudley Forwood, former equerry to the Duke of Windsor. Describing the couple as “wonderful, colourful characters”, Guy - this fledgling hairdresser from a small town in France – was suddenly thrust into a world of aristocracy and mingling with the UK’s high society. Clientele included passengers stepping onboard the QE2 from Southampton and even royalty. Guy recalls his wellconnected bosses taking tea with the late Queen Mother, while fixing priceless tiaras into perfectly styled dos was all just part of the job. “It was a fascinating experience,” Guy enthuses. “The salon was on the first floor above Russell & Bromley in Winchester and you had to ring a doorbell to get in. I was from this ordinary family in France and suddenly I was a hairdresser to all these VIPs.” While loving his new lifestyle, Guy’s mother was in poor health and he flew home to France every Saturday to see her until her death less than one year after arriving in the UK. This commitment and loyalty to his ailing mother are character traits which still define Guy today. The heady days at Hans of Vienna were action-packed but short-lived, and after two years, when the salon closed, Guy set up the first of his salons – French Connection – employing a small team of three. Determined to make a name for himself Guy started dabbling with photography. Inspired by the elegant work of ‘chignon king’ and fellow Frenchman Alexandre de Paris, Guy soon cultivated a chic, signature style. He began sending off photo collections to the hair press and struck up an enduring friendship with the Editor of Hairdressers Journal at the time, Moira Paulusz. Brutally honest in her feedback, Moira would fire back with comments such as, “Bad make-up, terrible lighting but hair is fab. Carry on!”
“I WAS FROM THIS ORDINARY FAMILY IN FRANCE AND SUDDENLY I WAS A HAIRDRESSER TO ALL THESE VIPS.”
GUY KREMER
Upping his game, Guy finally arranged a professional photoshoot and his investment paid off. The collection was beautiful and was published alongside the likes of Trevor Sorbie, John Frieda and Daniel Galvin. Guy had made it and his new, larger salon, now named Guy Kremer was taking off too. Before long he’d been spotted by producers of a new TV show, Style Challenge. As part of a team of stylists such as Hilary Alexander, Ruby Hammer and Barbara Daly, Guy became a regular on this BBC daytime TV show devoted to making over members of the public. This new-found notoriety catapulted Guy to the top of his game and secured his name as one of the most respected in the hair industry. Fresh from his stint on Style Challenge, Guy’s hair talents regularly featured in The Times, Telegraph and Express and today he maintains a regular slot styling the celebrity covers of Fabulous magazine. No doubt, television opened a lot of doors for him. It wasn’t just a TV reputation that was lifting off either. 1998 – over 30 years ago – saw Guy win the first of many awards when he scooped Southern Hairdresser of the Year. He won the same award three years in row, inducting him into the British Hairdressing Awards Hall of Fame. • cont’d over page Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
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• cont’d from page 15
“IF YOU CAN MEET WITH TRIUMPH AND DISASTER, AND TREAT THOSE TWO IMPOSTORS JUST THE SAME”
GUY KREMER
The title of Men’s Hairdresser of the Year followed. He also had a prolific run at the L’Oréal Colour Trophy and an impressive clutch of creative, business and international awards too. Guy is pragmatic about the fact that while nominated for British Hairdresser of the Year, this was to be a title that escaped him. He refers to the Rudyard Kipling quote, “If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster, and treat those two impostors just the same,” as the way he handles disappointment in life. In any case, a greater honour - Fellowship Hairdresser of the Year was in store, a title he won twice – the second time 17 years later. Valuing the acknowledgment from his peers, this award was proof of both his talent and enduring popularity. Today, his self-titled salon in Parchment Street is one of Winchester’s biggest success stories. While others have come and gone, Guy puts his salon’s success down to an unwavering commitment to customer care. “I’m totally involved in every aspect of the salon and continually invest to keep standards high,” he says. Never shy of spending money where it’s needed, Guy admits to routinely refurbishing the salon to keep its sense of luxury. His loyal customers are made to feel welcomed and special – perhaps a lesson learnt from those early days of five-star service. Guy’s raft of well-heeled customers from Hampshire and the surrounding areas are a top priority for him and Guy also boasts a close circle of celebrity devotees. As well as a commitment to his clients, he treats his close-knit team like family; a virtue that has backfired in the past. “I’d say that the hardest part of running a salon is putting your trust into people and misjudging it,” he laments. “I’ve been disappointed by staff members and it hurts.” He describes the recent death of his longstanding PA and most trusted friend, Margery as heart-breaking. By his side in business for 38 years, she started out as a client before taking on the role as bookkeeper, receptionist and later PA. “she was my unseen hero,” Guy reflects sadly. Other abiding and loyal names in his professional life are JC Aucamp and Jonny Engstrom. JC now runs the successful Guy Kremer franchise salon in Lymington, while Jonny has been in Guy’s inner sanctum since 1997 and heads up the Winchester salon as Director and Art Director. Other top names in the hair world cite Guy as their influence and little wonder he was named by USA’s leading trade magazine, Modern Salon, as one of the Top 75 Global Educators of the Century. Famed for his skill at dressing long hair, he’s even written a book about it – a talent immortalised in print. At 68 years old, Guy shows no signs of giving up on his beloved hair career. But there are glimpses of what a life might look like beyond it. He retreats to his second home in Cordes-sur-Ciel whenever he can. From his balcony overlooking the picturesque 14th Century village below, he paints. “I’m influenced mainly by the artists Chagall, Dali and Gaugin.” It’s also a place where he indulges his passions for cooking, swimming and gardening. Pruning the roses or creating a feast for friends are how he zones out of the bustling days he leads at the salon. Despite branching out with the franchise salon in Lymington, Guy maintains he never set his sights on a vast chain of salons. Instead he’s pleased and proud of the thriving business he’s built in Winchester. 45 years since first arriving in the UK, Guy may have French roots, but is as much a part of the British hair scene as any of the other names that have made it to the top echelons. And yes, while the taste for opulence and luxury and the abundant successes of his dazzling career are plain to see, it’s clear that above all, Guy Kremer is a devoted and humble hairdresser at heart. Pleasing his clients and bringing out the best in them, he admits, offers the greatest riches of all.
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THE
LUXE
E - CURL PRO
COLLECTION
EVY Professional
evyprofessional •evyprofessional.com • Tel. 1300 760 165
20 MINUTES
TOM WHITE
h t i W
A ‘hub for the good’ is how Salon Owner ‘Tom White’ describes his new salon, Same Same But Different. There are three main issues in the world that have been talked about for a long time says Tom, but really haven’t seen any true progression... Equality, Diversity and Sustainability. Hair Biz Editor Louise May had an absolute blast catching up with Tom, to get a little more up close and personal and to find out what was the inspiration behind creating his amazing new salon space.
Tell us what you do in the industry today:
Founder and Director of Same Same But Different Salon, International Ambassador and Educator for evo and I’m also a co-founder of a new initiative alongside the AHC called Pathway Connect which is a blueprint created for hairdressers to find and access different parts of the industry.
To help us get to know you a little more, would you share a little about your upbringing?
I’m one of two children. My Dad and Mum are both retired, but my dad used to run the Circulation Department for one of the country’s biggest Newspapers and my Mum was a Support Worker for women who suffered from Family Violence. 2 intense roles, for different reasons. I grew up in a small town near Wolverhampton in England. I got myself into heaps of trouble, I just loved to rebel. There is something about ‘rules’ that I just don’t understand. There are so many of them that get in the way of progression, that when I was a kid, I would break them to see what would happen. I went to a nice school, I got good grades, I was academic, but ultimately hated the education system and didn’t feel like 18
Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
it served me properly and couldn’t wait to get out of it!
How did you first get involved in the industry?
Once I left school and I realised I wasn’t going to be a footballer, I bounced around jobs not knowing what I wanted to do. I tried sales, retail, more sales….then a mate of mine introduced me to hairdressing. Now, I’ve never been creative at all, I’m way more analytical, but I saw opportunity in the industry. This became more apparent every day after I started my apprenticeship at 20 years old. I found that you could reverse engineer a lot of it and be ‘creative’ that way. Once I had done 3 months in a salon, I was addicted to the people, the work, the craft. I Never looked back.
What achievement are you most proud of in your life or career?
There are a couple! First of all, my wife. Actually, getting her to agree to marry me and then her turning up on the day is my greatest ever achievement! Lou is the reason I get out of bed in the morning and the most important part of my life, she has taught me what I can be and given me the belief to go and get shit done. Professionally….winning the awards is great, but it has to be Same Same But Different Salon. It’s the baby I’ve always had in the back of my head, and now is the right time to launch it.
“MY WIFE MAKES ME SIT DOWN TO WEE BECAUSE, APPARENTLY, MY AIM IS SHOCKING. I HAVEN’T DONE A STAND UP WEE FOR YEARS.” Three things you’re passionate about:
- Teaching people that the only thing holding them back is themselves. We are all capable of the unthinkable, but too many let the naysayers get the best of their plans and ambitions. - Spreading the message of equality and diversity and how essential it is to the progression of the human race. - My crew, whether that’s my wife, my family, my team and helping as many of them get to live their individual dreams.
Describe your ideal Sunday:
Not nursing a hangover because this ‘getting older’ shit is killing me! Walking my pup GiGi with Lou, getting coffee and breakfast, then spending the next couple of hours persuading Lou to let me watch all the NRL that day. Love a Sunday!
What’s on your bucket list?
3 more salons in particular locations. A honeymoon when Covid decides to piss off. As many kids as we can have, and skydiving, which probably won’t happen because I’m terrified of the thought of it.
Craziest, funniest, or most unusual thing you’ve ever done?
Funniest was working with the crew at Lil Off the Top. I had some of the best years of my life around that crew! Craziest would be the life I’m living now with the new salon and managing that through Covid and lockdowns. While it’s the craziest it’s also the most enjoyable time in my life. Most unusual……too many stories to tell and none of them you could publish. ha-ha!
What’s something interesting or quirky we might not know about you?
My wife makes me sit down to wee because, apparently, my aim is shocking. I haven’t done a stand up wee for years.
Pets or no pets & if so, what/who?
My pup GiGi. She’s a Shih Tzu x Pomeranian. The best dog in the world. I love that scruffy bag of fluff like you would not believe!
What’s playing on your Spotify right now?
I’m a rock fan. I listen mostly to the same 6-7 albums constantly. It drives Lou insane when we are in my car. Sometimes I’ll get nostalgic and rip a bit of Craig David.
If you could leave this industry having achieved just one thing, what would that legacy be?
Leaving the industry better off than when I entered it. It’s really that simple. That’s why I’ve created the 4 brand pillars, Honesty, Creativity, Diversity and Community, and that is why Same Same But Different was established.
Tell us about those Brand Pillars, what they represent and why are they so important?
Every move and all decisions are dictated by our brand pillars. If an idea doesn’t contribute to making the world better or people’s lives better, we just simply won’t do it. The pillars a great reminder every day that we are fighting to help the industry progress. HONESTY - it’s about simply that. Being honest with our guests, our colleagues and more importantly ourselves. Being that open, that you understand your own flaws and are humble enough to accept and improve. Being honest with our sustainability, showing how we help the environment and holding all companies accountable to their sustainable pledges. CREATIVITY – We are always aiming to reinvent or create. Not just hair but creativity within our lives. It’s about self-expression and constantly evolving, always aiming to be your best. Finding new ways to move forward and never fearing the unknown. DIVERSITY – We care for everyone and anyone, we don’t judge, and we promote equality. Everyone deserves to be loved upon and cared for no matter their race or gender. For some reason there are still people out there that don’t get this, so we are here to scream and shout about the social injustices experienced within our nation, but also promoting the beauty of a multicultural society and that love is love!! COMMUNITY – we are here to serve and lead our community. Hairdressing salons used to be the pillar of the community, and that has been lost. Well, we are bringing that back. We have committed to promote local business’, support, and advertise local business’ and help our guests get their business’ out there and connect them with like-minded salon guests. We are also collaborating with local artists and giving them our space for free to advertise their art. This will be covering all aspects of art. • cont’d over page
• cont’d from page 19
“ONCE I HAD DONE 3 MONTHS IN A SALON, I WAS ADDICTED TO THE PEOPLE, THE WORK, THE CRAFT. I NEVER LOOKED BACK.” Singing, painters, indigenous artists, literally anyone can use our space. Giving each artist a platform to get their work out there without having to outlay cash for a site or venue to exhibit. We are connecting with the entire community and bringing people together.
We use a recycling company called Waste Free Systems. Australian owned company that has a vast experience in their field. Because of them, over 90% of everything we use is recycled or repurposed and we are working on the rest.
Our mission with these brand pillars is to tackle all issues head on and we plan on making some big noise about it. These are some of the things we implemented straight away.
We are supporting local; all our beers are from Burnley Brewery. The wine is from AGlassOf which is an Australian company celebrating indie winemakers. They come in single serve pouches with the winemakers name and region on. We are doing everything we can to support as many local business’ as possible.
Everyone pays the same price at SSBD, because we believe you shouldn’t get a discount because you have a penis. Everyone should be charged and treated equally. We have created a safe space where you don’t have to pick from a hair menu based on your gender or what you identify as. #HairHasNoGender Nearly 65% of the Australian population have some form of curly hair and currently nearly 2% of the population identify as African Australian, which will continue to grow over the forthcoming years, yet a disproportionate number of hairdressers can’t do curly, or specifically, afro hair in this country. It isn’t taught at TAFE and isn’t regarded as a necessity. This is bullshit and it needs to change! We are, as a team, attentively learning all things curl and afro. You shouldn’t be rejected from a salon nor feel anxious visiting a hairdresser because of your hair type, due to the hairdresser not being educated in that field. Diversity and equality should and will be the backbone of any business and our industry should be at the forefront of that! We only stock product companies that are sustainable. We use an incredible high performing, botanical colour, from an Australian, family-owned company in evo. It’s the only colour in the world to have delivered a high spec complete performance colour without the nasties. We also stock their styling products and home haircare, no chemicals, vegan, cruelty free. We also stock Davines, an Italian and family-owned company, which commit to reforestation programs, coral reef planting here in Australia, food foundations, less plastic in their bottles, reusable conditioner, and mask containers as well as a sustainable magazine to show the incredible contribution the company has to the preservation of our planet. They are legally registered as a sustainable company by being recognised as a B Company. 20
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My colleagues are the most important entity in my professional life. So, I have decided to only open 4 days a week, Tuesday – Friday, and give everyone a long weekend every weekend. Business wise, people say it doesn’t make sense, but I challenge everyone to explore the option. I did all my P and L’s for each individual day; Saturday’s aren’t as profitable as our other days. That alongside 2 key indicators below, are the reasons why it was a no brainer. (And for the record, out of the 180+ regular clients we had on Saturday….only 4 couldn’t move to another day or time moving forward.) 1) we want to support the local arts as much as possible. So, on Saturdays we will opening our salon up and offering the space for free to local artists of any kind to exhibit or show their talents. 2) I want the employees to have a great life. A happy work life balance. Hairdressing is renowned for anti-social work hours. Well, this changes that, and we can still service all our guests due to 3 late nights on Tues Wed Thurs and shutting at 6pm on a Friday. We need more young people entering the industry, they want freedom to live their lives. This goes a long way to offering that!
COLLECTION CREDITS Hair - Tom White Photographer - Bernard Guiet Makeup Artist - Sarah McFadden Stylist - Leroy Lorenzo
INDUSTRY NEWS | INDUSTRY NEWS | INDUSTRY NEWS INTERNATIONAL IMAGE OF THE YEAR
The Fellowship for British Hairdressing is launching a brandnew category to its annual Awards. One of the most anticipated events in the British hairdressing calendar, the Awards recognise the creative flair of hairdressers across four categories. And 2021 sees the introduction of the exciting new International Image Award, open to all hairdressers outside the UK. To enter, you need to upload up to Image of the Year, three images to Instagram, tag @ won by Errol Douglas MBE fellowship hair and use the hashtag #fellowshipinternational21 Chancellor Ashleigh Hodges explains: “The Fellowship for British Hairdressing has recognised inspiration and creativity in British Hairdressing for the past 75 years. However, we are aware every day of the incredible imagery and talent that is on offer around the world, and we are delighted to launch our International Image Award for hairdressers to showcase their favourite images from their portfolio and enter this prestigious award.” Criteria for International Image of the Year 2021: This is a celebration of inspiring, trend-led imagery from around the world. It should be a professional image shot in a studio setting and due to 2020 restrictions, is open to any work from the entrants back catalogue. Upload your image to Instagram, tag @fellowshiphair and use the hashtag #fellowshipinternational21 Closing date is 3 September 2021. Visit fellowshiphair.com/awards-1/2021-fellowship-awards to enter now! For more information: Instagram: @fellowshiphair Email: carol@fellowshiphair.com
FROM WASTE TO WORKWEAR
Introducing Tabatha by BeauTex, a salon specific collaboration between hairdressing phenomenon Tabatha Coffey and Brisbanebased clothing label BeauTex Designs. The range of hairdressing focused fashion pieces ticks all the boxes for today’s hairdresser, being stylish, functional, comfortable, and sustainably driven all at once. The 2021 fashion-forward capsule collection is designed to be gender-neutral and inclusive of all body types. The range is constructed in sleek black fabric durable enough to withstand harsh chemicals. It’s also crease free, quick drying and made with a cooling fabric, becoming an ideal everyday outfit for
hairdressers in all environments. The collection of work wear is sustainably sourced, bleach resistant, and ethically made, all created from 100% RPET (repurposed plastic bottles) through a process whereby the RPET is flaked, pelletised, and extruded into yarn and finally woven into a textile. BeauTex also only uses OEKO-TEX approved dyes, which are third party tested to ensure no toxins are released into the environment and waterways during the dying process. BeauTex is Global Recycling Standards certified and a member of Sedex, an ethical trade membership organisation that helps businesses maintain responsible practices and sourcing. www.beautexdesigns.com 22
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SHARON BLAIN BOOTCAMP REBOOTED
Education guru Sharon Blain has launched her Boot Camp Rebooted 4-Day Workshop for Hair Stylists and Makeup Artists, coming to Sydney in August and September 2021 and Melbourne in 2022. So if you want to be highly skilled, highly sought after and totally confident, no matter what styling challenge comes your way, this could be the program for you. Offering 32 hours of non-stop education, Sharon’s four-day Boot Camps are renowned and hosted worldwide, and this all new format will ensure attendees advance with confidence as a superior bridal stylist, leading celebrity stylist, independent hair and makeup artist or an in-demand hair influencer. Under the tutelage of Sharon herself, Bootcamp Rebooted will cater to the demand of on-trend contemporary looks, elevating the skills of all attendees to achieve these styles. Get ready to elevate your styling game as you master all the essential fundamentals of dressing hair. It will teach the correct foundational skills and current techniques necessary to produce stunning long hair results and equip students with the underpinning knowledge of the principles of hair design that are key for styling success. For more information on Workshops, please visit the website. www.sharonblain.com
NATIONAL PYJAMA DAY IS BACK
Who wants to dress up in PJs at work on Saturday 31 July? If that sounds like your vibe, then get your salon team and clients involved by joining the Mocha Angels and support the Love Your Sister fundraising campaign in 2021. Love Your Sister is Australia’s hardest working cancer vanquishing charity, and since its inception in 2012 has raised over $13M for medical research. Founded by Gold Logie-winning actor and Victorian Australian of the Year 2018, Samuel Johnson OAM, Love Your Sister supports personalised treatment for ALL cancer patients, whatever the cancer, regardless of location, income, or status. It strives for the right treatment for every cancer patient, first time, every time. So far, the hair and beauty industry has raised over $200,000 and the Mocha team invites you to be part of the fundraising fun once again. Anyone can join, simply register as the link below and Mocha will send you all the materials and content you need to get started. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TYTGR8S
INDUSTRY NEWS | INDUSTRY NEWS | INDUSTRY NEWS AN INVITATION TO PURCHASE THE HAIR 2010 – 2019 COFFEE TABLE BOOK FOR HAIR AID
Hair Aid has their exclusive offer to purchase the limited edition, coffee table book called Hair 2010 – 2019. According to editor, Leanne Cutler, the beautiful luxury book was created to record excellence in hairdressing, particularly in Australia and New Zealand, with proceeds going to Hair Aid. “The book is the most luxurious hardcover publication ever created for Australia hairdressers and there will be a copy on display on the Hair Aid stand,” at Septembers Hair Festival, Leanne said. “It celebrates the beautiful images released globally from 2010 – 2019 in seven carefully themed chapters. “The project has, so far, raised more than $3,000 for Hair Aid and it’s hoped that it will reach at least $8,000”. She said that the book was curated from almost 5,000 images in the Hair Shots 2 The World archive and thanks goes to the photographers who gave for their work to be included in this fundraising project. The price of the print-to-order book is $133 plus international courier delivery*. “We are also raising funds by creating bespoke covers and contents for hairdressers included the book, in exchange for a minimum $200 donation to Hair Aid until the end of Hair Festival,” she said. “What this means, is that you can have your very own customised book, featuring your salon on the front cover.” Hair Aid CEO and Founder Selina Tomasich, says, “There are less than 250 copies of the main version left, so we encourage hairdressers to head to the Hair Aid stand in the Hair Festival Marketplace to get their invitation to purchase this collector’s item,” Selina said. *International courier costs vary according to your location and the courier chosen by the printer in Germany. Delivery may take 4-5 weeks. COVER CREDIT: Hair - Freda Rossidis, CAST, 2014 / Photography - Andrew O’Toole / Stylist - Marcus Stewart / Make Up - Kylie O’Toole For more information, please contact: leanne@hairshots2theworld.com
INTRODUCING THE BF CAPE – PERFECT FOR NURSING MUMS IN YOUR SALON
Just getting out of the house with a newborn is quite a feat - ask any new mum! So, when you’re sleep deprived and lacking energy, a trip to the salon is the perfect way to make you feel fantastic. But what happens if you need to take your baby with you to breastfeed? This was exactly the dilemma facing BF Cape founder and designer Tahlia Newey, when she went to the salon with her threemonth-old daughter. Having to try and feed her baby under a hot and sweaty cape whilst getting her colour done, was unpleasant and uncomfortable, which made Tahlia wonder why there weren’t any breastfeeding capes coming up in her Google searches. Fast track to today and the BF Cape is being snapped up by salons all around the country.
Based on the best breastfeeding design tops, the BF cape is a unique but simple way for mothers to feed their babies at the salon, in comfort and privacy. No more uncomfortable positioning or stress about demand feeding your baby at the salon; no more getting hot and bothered under a thick and heavy cape. Made in Australia, the BF Cape comes with its own carry bag, so it’s perfect for breastfeeding mums or salons to offer in house to clients who need to bring their baby into the salon. www.bfcape.com.au
BED HEAD RELAUNCH BRINGS BACK THE 90S VIBES WITH A MILLENNIAL TWIST A brand-new face for some of your favourite go-to products. Bed Head has relaunched and it’s the come-back we have all been waiting for! Bed Head has returned with a fresh new look and plenty of advanced innovation. This facelift for our cult hero products is the start of a new chapter for this ground-breaking line of fun and flirty packaging with the fragrance POP’s you cannot forget. “When it comes to hair, we believe everyone should have the freedom to be experimental. Whatever your hair type, whatever your style, Bed Head wants you to express your creativity with products created to inspire and assist you to reach your hair goals.” Says TIGI, Bed Head co-founder and International Creative Director Anthony Mascolo. With the need to adapt, pivot, reinvent and innovate, while still staying true to the core brand values of Bed Head, the new and improved range has a focus on sustainability, convenience and intuitive communication through digital scanning technology. Aptly timed with the resurgence of ‘90s trends EVERYWHERE, so these products slide right into the 2021 landscape seamlessly. The redevelopment of formulations gives the consumer and the stylist the ultimate control over finished styling looks. With multi-layering techniques allowing every shape and finish imaginable. www.bedhead.com
SMITHS COLLECTIVE BRANDS OFFICIAL AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTOR OF UK HAIRCARE BRAND, INNOLUXE.
Recently announcing their rebrand from, Luxury Beauty Concepts, Smiths Collective Brands have hit the ground running, appointed the Australian/NZ Distributor of innovative and revered UK brand, INNOluxe. cont’d over page
INDUSTRY NEWS | INDUSTRY NEWS | INDUSTRY NEWS
The dynamic and irrepressible duo of Brian & Jane Smith are capitalising on their promise to continue to source and deliver high performance and cutting-edge products for the Australia/NZ market, with INNOluxe the first new brand to headline their ‘collective’ stable. “After a few months of communication with the UK and coinciding with our rebrand, we are beyond thrilled to be the official Australian/NZ distributor of INNOluxe and introduce hairdressers to this amazing in-salon and at-home treatment,” say the Smiths. “We’re so excited to be working with the team at Smiths Collective Brands and launching INNOluxe in Australia and New Zealand. Globally, hair colour services are more popular now than ever before, and hairdressers are more skilled in creative colour which allows them to meet consumer demand for more
advanced colours and the desire to change them more often,” says Jez Barnett, INNOluxe Managing Director. “This would have been a problem without bond builders. This fairly recent technology has enabled colourists to say yes more often and push the boundaries of what they can deliver for their clients. All bond builders will create strengthening benefits, however INNOluxe takes this much further by creating a super strong network of sulphur bonds throughout the hair and delivers our signature luxurious sensation and shine which the client notices immediately.” The INNOluxe in-salon treatment makes insanely vibrant, healthy colour possible, and it can also be used stand-alone, with perms, keratin and straightening processes. INNOluxe Ambassador Sophia Hilton from Not Another Salon in London says it best: “INNOluxe takes it further than I thought was possible. INNOluxe works inside and out, it rebuilds the hair like never before, but equally important, the client’s going to feel it and ask for it again and again and again.” @sophiahilton @notanothersalon www.smithscollectivebrands.com.au
HAIR FESTIVAL NEW DATES – SUNDAY 26TH AND MONDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER 2021
Providing Comfort and Privacy for Mums and Bubs at the Hair Salon Designed in Australia by a Mum of 3
Made from Soft Cotton, Spandex, Nylon and a waterpfoor layer Large Opening for mum and bub comfort Clips to hold flap closed when not in use Easy access on both left and right sides
For more Information phone: 0476 203 917 Web: www.bfcape.com.au Email: admin@bfcape.com.au Facebook/Instagram: @bfcape
Hair Festival has been rescheduled in solidarity with the hair industry in Victoria, so we all can come together at the biggest hair industry event in Australia and celebrate with the entire community. 2021’s June long weekend, which has always belonged to the hair community, will see its revival this September with Hair Festival. A multi-faceted, dynamic event that meets modern hairdressing values and will once again allow the hair community to Shop, Learn, Compete and Connect. The debut of Hair Festival 2021 is brought to you by the talented teams at BHA Media (a subsidiary of The Intermedia Group publisher of INSTYLE magazine and styleicons.com.au and supported by the Australian Hair Industry Awards (AHIA) and Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC). Information and tickets can be sourced from the Hair Festival website. www.hairfestival.com.au
New September dates announced Australia’s biggest 2-day hair industry event
MarketPlace FREE to attend
Shop. Learn. Compete. Connect.
Sunday 26 & Monday 27 September 2021 Carriageworks - SYDNEY @HairFestivalAustralia
Get your tickets now BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
SUPPORTED BY:
@hair_festival
hairfestival.com.au
#LIGHTENINGUNLIMITED #LIGHTDIMENSIONS
HEALTHY HABITS
KYLIE DWYER
Kylie Dwyer has been in the hairdressing industry for 36yrs, Co-Founder of Elite Hair Education and pricingyourservices.com
Kylie was a salon owner for 21 years with 2 salons and 25 employees and is passionate about maintaining a balance in her physical and mental health. One of Kylie’s favourite sayings is by Jim Rohn which states “Motivation will get you started; habit will keep you going.” This makes her a perfect candidate to talk to us about how she has time to balance everything and instil Healthy Habits into her life.
HAPPINESS What does happiness mean to you and how do you find it in everyday life?
Happiness to me is when my everyday life is fulfilling my needs. These needs can change depending on circumstances around me, so I try to always act with an open heart and find gratitude and joy in all that is around me most days. Each day I try to just do my best and expect only that of others around me , when there is failure or disappointments, I don’t take it personally I just dust myself off and keep going . I have very strong beliefs and values so it’s often easy for me to feel content even when there is bad stuff going on around me. I truly believe that you become the people you spend most of your time with, so I choose my business partners , network groups and friends wisely these days. If something or someone doesn’t 28
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bring me joy, I spend less time on it or with them; it’s as simple as that. You only get one crack at your life, getting older means you are wiser and more knowledgeable, so I choose happiness every day. It’s a choice, right???
BALANCE What do you do to maintain balance within a busy lifestyle?
Balance is something that varies in my year depending on what’s happening; however, I do have a strategy that I follow most years to ensure I am living my best life. My husband/business partner and I break our year into quarters: 9 weeks working in the business, 2 weeks working on the business and 2-week rest. 2 weeks rest may be work if I choose, or research/development or just a holiday. 2 weeks working on the business is whatever my office and marketing team need me to do . 9 weeks consists of traveling on a Sunday afternoon, Monday- Wednesday educating either in group workshops or Private salons. Wednesday night I travel home. Thursday, I work freelance in a salon 8am- 8pm looking after clients that I have had for 30 years. Fridays is working on the business in our office or filming content in our studio. Friday night and Saturdays is family time.
“ALWAYS FOCUSING ON A POSITIVE ATTITUDE AND MINDSET HAS HELPED ME MAKE GOOD CHOISES” My husband travels for work too so life has been hectic since we had our daughter who is now 16 . This year she has gone to boarding school for her final 2 years of high school, so things are much easier logistically Monday- Friday. She comes home weekends so look forward to that and cherishing my time with her and our extended family .
FOOD AND EATING What would an ideal day’s meal plan look like for you?
Apart from the last year where we all stayed home more and I started drinking wine every day , eating lots of carbohydrates and putting on a few kilos lol, I normally just stick to a balanced diet. I’m a huge fan of the 80/20 rule for everything in life so if 80% of my week I eat health than 20% I can do what I like. That saying “you are what you eat” is so true, so I’m very conscious of wanting to feel good all the time. Monday to Friday I’m very planned and boring . Breakfast- omelette and coffee Lunch - protein and salad on a wrap or rice paper rolls Dinner- protein and salad or veggies and a glass of wine Weekends I eat whatever works and always a few more wines !!
EXERCISE Do you follow an exercise program? In my early 20’s I was a competitive triathlete, training 15 hours per week and following a tight training program. These days I exercise at least 4 times per week. I do 2 weights sessions a week, 2 runs and a long walk if I have time . I have always worked long hours either as a salon owner or now heading up Elite Hair Education so it’s important I stay strong and fit. 35 years in the hairdressing industry and I still can do a 12-hour shift on the floor, sometimes feeling better at the end of the day them the younger ones around me. I strongly believe a good diet and fitness routine each week is a priority if you want to have any form of success.
It makes it easy that I love my runs down the beach and coffee watching the sun come up with friends. On the days I travel I visit the gym in the hotel at 6am.
CONSISTENCY Are you consistent with your healthy living habits or do they start and stop depending on what is happening in your life?
I would say I’m consistent 90% of the time with my healthy living habits . The wheels do fall off the wagon when I meet friends for lunches or dinners. The key to staying consistent is having a training buddy and plan your meals prep. I am very lucky that my husband is the cook in our family so that’s one less job I have.
HABITS What habits have you developed that set you up for success?
Over the years I have acquired quite a few very successful mentors who have shared their success and enabled me to create those same great habits. In all my workshops I talk a lot about creating good habits that set you up for a happy day, week, year, and life. Some of mine are : Set goals that inspire you Wake up early, the early bird gets the worm. Exercise regularly Networking with like-minded people Being positive Think solution not problem Choose to be happy and laugh a lot
What’s one habit that you’d like to break or change to be healthier or happier? Drink less wine
What’s the best thing you’ve ever done for your own health or happiness?
I was a chubby kid growing up so losing 20 kilos when I was young has set me up for a healthy life. Always focusing on a positive attitude and mindset has helped me make good choices and enabled me to act confidently when I have needed to be brave.
“WEEKENDS I EAT WHATEVER WORKS AND ALWAYS A FEW MORE WINES!!”
Pauline McCabe
GLOBAL TALENT SPOTTING WITH PAULINE McCABE
KAROLIINA SAUNDERS In the final instalment of our TALENT SPOTTING features, Pauline McCabe, owner of Rock, Paper, Scissors meets Karoliina Saunders who from her selftiled salon base in the beautiful village of Highworth, Wiltshire, UK, she has been fortunate enough to indulge her first love of fashion through a jampacked line-up of stage, photographic, editorial and session work. These assignments have taken her all over the world, as well as working backstage at all the major Fashion weeks. As a style influencer, Karoliina has carved out a reputation for a gritty more edgy look than the mainstream and this daring eye has led to her being picked out as a finalist for various top awards. She also holds a role as an educator and Ambassador for the Label.m brand.
If you had to name one skill that has got you to where you are today, what would it be? Attention to detail.
What professional achievement are you most proud of?
My career has had so many moments that I truly am great full and proud of, but getting to work with the great teams in fashion weeks and shoots has definitely been one of the achievements I’m super proud of, I have to put another one in as well though because becoming a mentor and part of the Council and the Chancellory for The Fellowship of British hairdressing has been another one of my greatest achievements I’m proud of.
Can you share with readers a time when you overcame a challenge?
I was in Milan Fashion week and had a call from my salon team to inform me that things were going wrong so I knew I had to go back to UK to check things out, but my dilemma was that I had a Dior show booked in Paris in two days’ time. My plan originally was to go straight to Paris from Milan but as it was, I went back home. I
Pauline McCabe joins the team at HAIR BIZ for a series of TALENT SPOTTING features. Owner of Rock, Paper, Scissors - a place dedicated to using products that are sulphur and paraben free, cruelty free and eco-friendly, Pauline enjoys a stellar portfolio and continues to dazzle on a global stage, balancing days in the salon with educating, shooting and her prolific session work. Pauline always keeps her ‘eye on the prize’ - and brings to us a truly cool collective from the international hairdressing scene in a fun, not too serious way.
“I’M GRATEFUL FOR THE AMAZING NETWORK I HAVE AROUND ME, MY HUSBAND, FRIENDS, FAMILY, WHO HELP ME GO FORWARD AND SUPPORT ME.” then realised I could not get a flight to Paris in time for the show .... absolute nightmare... so I had a brilliant idea.. there’s an overnight coach from London to Paris so I jumped in that and ended up outside the show space 4am. The call time was at 7:30am so I had to sit outside a multi-million -pound -show space for over three hours unwashed with my tracksuit. But hey I was there, I was on time, and when they let me in, I ran to the ladies, brushed my teeth, put makeup on and changed my clothes and I was ready for work. Sometimes it takes what it takes but I’m strong believer, if you really want it, you will do anything it takes to achieve it.
What three words would you use to describe your ideal environment?
I love working on creative projects especially when I’m in my studio with great tunes on so i suppose those three ; in my studio with the tunes being creative
What excites you most about your work?
Being able share what I have learned thoroughout my career. Giving others the opportunities and knowledge to pursue further in their journey
What three habits will improve your life?
This year has changed me a lot, I have looked at my life from all angles and I have decided that I want to do more of the things that I really want to do, I want time with my family, and I have started to plan and organise my team so that we make sure it happens, it’s about finding a work/ life balance. I want to educate more so I have worked on my KSHD education platform, which is in digital form right now but there will also be face to face courses. I also want to do more shoots so I have taken a day off per week from behind the chair and this will give me more time to be creative. So it’s all about organisation to achieve things that are important, exciting and makes me happy
For what in your life do you feel most grateful?
I’m grateful for the amazing network I have around me, my husband, friends, family, who help me go forward and support me. Keep me on track and grounded. My industry peers who keep me inspired. Health, I’m grateful that I have my health and my family is healthy.
Hair: Karoliina Saunders Karoliina Saunders Hair Design Make up: Jo Sugar Fashion: Bernard Connolly Photography: Desmond Murray
If you could do the hair of one person alive or dead, who would it be? I have to give two...Debbie Harry and Grace Jones
What’s been the best gift you’ve ever been given?
My career, been able to have a job that I’m so passionate about Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
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THE NATION’S HAIR INDUSTRY, TOGETHER AGAIN, FOR FIRST EVER CREATIVE PLATFORM OF THE ANNUAL AUSTRALIAN HAIR INDUSTRY AWARDS 2021
Monday the 14th June saw Australia’s leading creatives take some time to celebrate the best of the best, joining together for the first time in two years at The Star, Sydney for this longawaited gala awards evening. With the ongoing impact of COVID-19 the industry has been faced with unprecedented economic and logistical challenges, but 2021 brings renewed positivity and solidarity as salons begin to rebuild and reconnect.
with his cast of 20 dancers, aerialists and models, alongside a hair show directed by the creative and artistic teams of Revlon Professional and ghd with extensions provided by Amazing Hair.
and Amazing Hair. There was also the addition on the night of a live show with American Crew, with the Finalists and Winner of 2021 #allstarchallenge being named.
In a fitting nod to the legacy of the now cancelled Hair Expo, former multi-accoladed winners were also given the chance to present some of the awards for what is now the definitive June long weekend industry event.
Launched in 2012 by esteemed trade visionaries Mocha Publishing, the Australian Hair Industry Awards (AHIA’s) are celebrating their 10th year as the trusted national award platform which provide a benchmark of excellence across both specialist and individual Educational and Business categories and this event marks the inaugural year that the Creative categories have been given their own awards program.
Owner/Publisher Linda Woodhead could not have been happier to see everyone in the same room again; “The Creative AHIA’s are our exciting new awards platform which highlight the quality of the industry’s editorial and trend focused skills and have allowed our entrants to show their clients and communities just how talented they are. The calibre of this year’s collections exceeded our high expectations and all of our finalists and winners should be incredibly proud of their work.”
The awards also marked a record with 100 esteemed international and local judges enlisted to hone in on the impressive entries with business, media and industry expert including Sam McKnight UK, Guy Tang USA, Sally Brooks UK, Angelo Seminara UK, Errol Douglas UK, Jenny Strebe USA, Julie BellingerGibb UK, Faye Murray, Charles Marcus, Kym Krey, Cameron Pine, Brad Ngata, Jayne Wild, Tracey Hughes and Sharon Blain as well as representatives from local publications including HAIRBIZ, Instyle, Woman’s Day, New Idea, Beautyheaven, Hair Romance, mamamia and Jones and international publications including Hairdressers Journal International, Estetica, Independent Beauty Professional Magazine, Intercoiffure SA, Salon Magazine and Coiffure.
MC’d by Creative Director, Host and Media Personality Adam Williams, the evening saw 700 of the most talented hairdressers and their salon teams watching on as 17 awards were announced. The gala festivities opened with ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’- an incredible choreographed circus extravaganza featuring Ring Master Adam
The AHIA yet again partnered with some of the biggest names and brands in the industry to bring this evening together and the team have never been more thankful for the support of brand partners Revlon Professional, ghd, Excellent Edges
“The creativity and passion I’ve seen in this year’s inaugural AHIA Creative entries has been outstanding. What a defining year it has been. The ingenuity and resourcefulness of the entries is a testament to how strong, globally, we are as an industry.” Sam McKnight
2021 AHIA CREATIVE WINNERS AUSTRALIAN HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Dee Parker Attwood, Wieselmann Salon NEW ZEALAND HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Danny Pato, D&M Hair Design INTERNATIONAL HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Sally Brooks, Brooks & Brooks COLOUR EXPERT OF THE YEAR Stevie Corthine, Stevie English Hair NSW/ACT HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Paula Hibbard, Paula Hibbard QLD HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Amy Gaudie, Urban Chic SA/TAS HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Mario Fioravanti, SJ Establishment VIC HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Cristina Tatasciore, Flipped Hair WA/NT HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Jude McEwen, Toni and Guy Perth Central APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR Paige Cameron, Cobelle Creative INDEPENDENT STYLIST OF THE YEAR Charlene Fernandez, Charlene Fernandez Hair MASTER CUTTER OF THE YEAR Elle Schoemaker, Cobelle Creative NEW CREATIVE TALENT OF THE YEAR James Morris, Biba Gertrude St AVANT GARDE HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR & PEOPLES CHOICE COLLECTION Paul James Graham, Paul & Paul Salon MEN’S HAIR SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR Anthony Staltari, Barbery Australia Australian Hairdresser of the Year Hairdresser: Dee Parker Attwood Photographer: Andrew O’Toole Makeup: Kylie O’toole Styling: Karly Brown Colour: Dee Parker Attwood/ Katie Ryman
BEST COLLAB OF THE YEAR Stephanie & Coco CREATIVE TEAM OF THE YEAR SJ Establishment
Proudly owned by Mocha Group | Official Media Partner HAIRBIZ Facebook: Australian Hair Industry Awards
Instagram: @aushairindustryawards Hair Biz #ahia2021 Year 15 Issue 4 33
2021/22
NEW HOT SHOTS TEAM FOR 2021/22 ANNOUNCED AT THE AHIA CREATIVE
“IT WAS ABSOLUTELY MINDBLOWING TO HEAR MY NAME CALLED OUT AND SEE MY NAME AND PHOTOS COME UP ON THE BIG SCREEN! I WAS IN SHOCK BUT IN THE BEST POSSIBLE WAY. THE ECSTASY OF BEING ON STAGE WAS INCREDIBLE! ” SCOTT
Scott Sheehy
“I WAS ON THE EDGE OF MY SEAT THE WHOLE NIGHT, AS SOON AS MY NAME WAS CALLED, I WAS ECSTATIC AND CAN’T WAIT TO START MY JOURNEY WITH MY HOT SHOTS TEAM.” LEANNE
Evie Golding
“WHEN I HEARD MY NAME, I FELT SO THRILLED. I WAS SO PROUD OF MYSELF AND ROKSTAR, AFTER THE YEAR WE’VE HAD AND JUST SO EXCITED FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY. THANK YOU SO MUCH!” EVIE
Leanne Kay
Eliza Andrews
“I WAS SO OVERCOME WITH EMOTION, THE PRIDE AND JOY I FELT, MADE EVERY LATE NIGHT AND EVERY DAY-OFF I GAVE UP IN THE PROCESS OF GETTING THERE, FEEL WORTH IT, A THOUSAND TIMES OVER!” ELIZA
At the AHIA Creative in Sydney at the Star Casino recently. as always, the next generation were waiting for the announcement of one of the most exciting moments of the night - the Hot Shots team for 2021/21. The Hot Shots program is renowned for providing the industry’s brightest up and coming talent an incredible platform to learn from industry icons and take their hairdressing experience to exciting new heights. Speaking to one of the judges, Dee Parker Attwood, she said “It was so refreshing and restored faith in our industry to read many of the ‘Hot Shot’ entries. Their passion and dedication to the craft was inspiring. I will be watching their careers from here to see what they do with the amazing opportunities this competition offers.” Enjoying an array of prizes from sponsors GOLDWELL, ghd, Excellent Edges and Amazing hair, the team will be gifted a swag of Styling products, electrical tools, full scissor kit and hair extensions, a stay in the famous HOT SHOTS House and a photo shoot with Andrew O’Toole during their tenure, collectively valued in excess of $20,000 per team member!!
2021/22 HOT SHOTS TEAM
Eliza Andrews, Royals Hair Evie Golding, Rokstar Salon Leanne Kay, Stevie English Hair Scott Sheehy, Toni&Guy Newtown
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A brand new initiative giving men’s hairdressers and barbers a platform to showcase their creative and business skills
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CATEGORIES Photographic and Submission Australian Modern Barber of the Year Australian Modern Barber Business of the Year PHOTOGRAPHIC ONLY Best Men’s Collection Classic Best Men’s Collection Freestyle Best Team Collection Best Men’s Collection Junior BUSINESS CATEGORIES Best Director/Owner of the Year Best Customer Care Best Men’s Educator of the Year Best Barbershop Design of the Year NOMINATED CATEGORY Special Recognition
AMBA Clean Skin Professional Product Awards Categories
HAIR CARE - Best Shampoo and Conditioner pair or 2-in-1 product HAIR STYLE - Best Styling Product. Entries can include:- Styling Wax, Cream or Paste BEARD CARE - Best Beard Care Product. Entries can include:- Oil, Wax, Cream or Paste
GENERAL ENTRY DEADLINE 2nd August 2021 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED 20th September 2021 AWARDS NIGHT 7th November 2021 Plaza Ballroom, Melbourne
BARBER SHOP WWW.AUSTRALIANMODERNBARBERAWARDS.COM.AU
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AUSTRALIAN HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Dee Parker Attwood, Wieselmann Salon
Dee is one of our most accomplished hairdressers globally, having taken out numerous awards and accolades against her peers around the world. As co-owner and Artistic Director of Wieselmann salon in Melbourne, her career spans over 20 years including being international ambassador for Schwarzkopf Professional and 2019 Hair Expo Australian Hairdresser of the Year and Best International Avant-Garde Collection at the International Hairdressing Awards 2020. She is also one of the leading visionaries of the local industry having been named president of the Hairdressing and Beauty Industry Association where she uses her passion and love for her craft to help to educate and share with the community. But, it’s her skill in the salon where she truly shines, creating some of the most incredible colours, cuts and styles Australia has ever seen.
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 first opening more than 14 years ago. The combination of unique cultures, speciality 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 New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, AIPP International Trophy 2020 and top-three finalist for International Hairdresser of the Year 2020.
INTERNATIONAL HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Sally Brooks, Brooks & Brooks
British Hairdresser of the Year 2018 and 2017 and London Hairdresser of the Year 3 times, Sally has a career spanning 25 years which has seen her working all over the world. Known for her inimitable skill at educating and inspiring other hairdressers to be the best version of themselves, she is looked to as a pillar of the industry. A true creative mind, she regularly creates fashion work, editorials and live shows but what she loves the most about her job are her clients. From assistant at The Trevor Sorbie salon to owner of the esteemed London salon Brooks & Brooks, she continues to make her mark. AHIA International Hairdresser Of The Year - Sally Boroks Award Collected By Clive Allwright
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Instagram: @aushairindustryawards Hair Biz #ahia2021 Year 15 Issue 4 37
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 are the first salon in the world to use evo hue.verse colour. This unique and proudly Australian product is ammonia-free and was used to create the stunning collection of images that led him to take out this award. 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.
NSW/ACT HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Paula Hibbard, Paula Hibbard
With her vibrant personality and passion for sharing knowledge, Paula began her career in the hair industry as a young teenager on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast with renowned hairdressing group Jon Le Court. Since then she has come a long way, with her Paula’s technical expertise and creative flair gracing the pages and covers of magazines including Modern Hair & Beauty, Oyster, InStyle, and Modern Wedding. Her skills have also been showcased in numerous film, fashion, and TV productions, including Project Runway, The Voice Kids, Mercedes Benz Australian Fashion Week and The Gods of Egypt, plus she is also a guest artist for home-grown product brands DeLorenzo and iD Extensions. In 2014, due to overwhelming industry demand Paula launched her full-time training company Paula Hibbard Education and now spends her days travelling around Australia and internationally, delivering bespoke long hair training programs.
QLD HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Amy Gaudie, Urban Chic
Amy is the founder of Urban Chic and has more than 20 years of hairdressing experience under her belt which includes travelling around the globe for numerous fashion weeks and photos shoots working with amazing stylists and designers. A member of the Wella Professional Creative Artist Team, she is dedicated to educating both her team and the industry on the very best in technique and creating truly incredible cuts, colours and styles. Her true passion lies with the power of hairdressing in the way it can improve someone’s day and make them feel incredible, something which she and her team manage to do each and every day.
SA/TAS HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Mario Fioravanti, SJ Establishment
Mario believes in the importance of teaching and educating not only creative skills but in human connection, knowing the benefits this can have on mental health in a world where physical interaction is slowly diminishing. As an integral member of the SJ Establishment Team, he has also worked closely with The Adelaide Fringe and Roulette Productions in their hair and make-up department and prides himself on using his platform to open doors for the younger generation. With big dreams for the future he is passionate about passing on his knowledge to other stylists and creating the best client experience he can.
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VIC HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Cristina Tatasciore, Flipped Hair
With over 15 years in the industry, Cristina’s knowledge and experience brings with it the ultimate in attention to detail and a unique personalised experience. A true leader and inspiration to all she is a master of everything from precision cuts through to beautiful colours and is known for flipping her client’s worlds upside down every appointment. Her passion for hair and fashion reflects in her consistent quality work and incredibly high demand plus has seen her previously named AHFA Victorian Hairdresser of the Year 2020. This latest accolade is just further testament to her impact on the Australian hair scene.
WA/NT HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR Jude McEwen, Toni and Guy Perth Central
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.
APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR Paige Cameron, Cobelle Creative
Fresh on the scene is up and comer Paige Cameron who has wowed with her youthful enthusiasm and commitment to her clients. Paige loves that a hair service can empower, lift the spirits and give clients a way to express themselves and stays up to date on the latest hair trends through social media, industry publications and by following fashion. She was awarded 3rd place in the Brisbane Hair & Beauty Expo Apprentice Futuristic Colour 2019 and was a finalist for AHIA Australian Apprentice of The Year 2020, already enjoying being able to create a story through her creative collections and showcase them within the industry. AS part of the award winning team at Cobelle Creative, she is certainly one to watch.
INDEPENDENT STYLIST OF THE YEAR Charlene Fernandez, Charlene Fernandez Hair
Working out of her Armadale space, Charlene is the industry’s most dynamic independent stylist and her client waiting list is testament to the demand for her incredible work. Formerly Creative Director at Rokk Ebony she is now busy making her mark on the industry with her inimitable style. She is a regular backstage at fashion weeks all over the world assisting the best in the business and being entrusted to give Gigi Hadid’s hair a final once over, working on set at campaign and editorial shoots for leading titles as well as working with her brand partners to help to educate the next generation of hairdressing talent. A powerhouse of technique when it comes to all things cut, colour and style, she is certainly a name to watch.
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MASTER CUTTER OF THE YEAR Elle Schoemaker, Cobelle Creative
Elle Schoemaker, has already made a mark for herself in the industry but this exciting new win marks her as a technical master nationally. Always delivering exceptional service, she represents the Cobelle Creative brand in a positive light through local and industry events and charity work, performing in her role of Artistic Director and Educator with pride. As an educator she extends herself to a wider hairdressing community through ‘Flawless Education’, and consistently works towards growing this platform, sharing her enthusiasm whilst encouraging creative flair. With unwavering commitment, passion and the ability to think outside the box, Elle is a testament to the fact that it is possible to balance both salon and industry success in a diverse and fulfilling career.
AHIA New Creative 2021 Award collected by Lee Cohen on behalf of James Morris
NEW CREATIVE TALENT OF THE YEAR James Morris, Biba Gertrude St
Since entering hairdressing, James has always aspired to simply create beautiful hair and is the culmination of years of training and development in his own technical skillset intertwined with creative vision. It has taken him on a journey to discover his sense of style and craft. Having worked with two highly respected hairdressing brands, Oscar Oscar and now BIBA, he believes himself to be locky to have been exposed to the very best business acumen, hair fashion aesthetics and a superior client experience. His collection is a bold, colourful and technical exhibition of hairdressing skills. Imaginative and striking, it crosses the thresholds of fashion and hair with confidence and flair, providing inspiration to other industry creatives and aspiration for consumers.
AVANT GARDE HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR AND PEOPLES CHOICE COLLECTION OF THE YEAR Paul James Graham, Paul & Paul Salon
With a huge list of accolades to his name, Paul James has worked with a bevy of leading fashion designer’s including Alex Perry, worked backstage at Fashion Week and has had editorials featured in various magazines such as Oyster and Instyle over his career. He is renowned for his unique and creative aesthetic and ability to interpret the latest trends, which he brings to the Gold Coast community from his Southport salon Paul & Paul which he co-founded with Paul Philip Dumenil. With a combined wealth of experience, these two Queenslanders have forged a unique brand of hairdressing that delivers a professional and positive hairdressing experience to all their valued clients. Paul’s collection also took out the hotly contested People Choice award by having the highest number of votes through an online survey of over 4000 fans!
MEN’S HAIR SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR Anthony Staltari, Barbery Australia
Anthony is renowned throughout both the Adelaide community as well as the hair industry at large for his innovative take on barbering techniques, transforming the common taper, fade, razor using the latest trends. From a makeshift salon in his parent’s garage at the age of 14 to the forefront of the Australian scene, he is Master Barber at the leading education organization Barbery, The Craft of a Barber Academy, specialising in traditional barbering with a modern twist. He is now dedicated to mentoring the next generation of up and coming barbering talent and inspiring them on how to create an exciting and fulfilling career in this rapidly growing discipline.
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BEST COLLAB OF THE YEAR Stephanie & Coco
Stephanie (AKA Stevie Corthine of Stevie English Hair) and Coco (AKA Kobi Bokshish of Intershape) have worked togther on different projects for over 4 years and believe that their partnership works because they have a mutual love, respect and desire for each other to do better work and push themselves creatively. Without and commercial or financial motivation, this is purely personal and showered with much love. They have collaborated around the world, first with Matrix then at Hair Expo shows for Kobi & Co and Aftermath Education. Both Kobi & Stevie have completely different skill sets so there is never any competition, just pure collaboration. The common purpose is to achieve the best result for both parties. There is no supernova star in their galaxy, they are more of a constellation!
CREATIVE TEAM OF THE YEAR SJ Establishment
Owner and Director Sam James and her team have only been operating for a couple of years, but with her experience and extensive accolades it’s no surprise this salon team have already made their mark. Designed with the ultimate client journey in mind, whether the time-poor professional, busy mother or cool young fashionista SJ Establishment is a stunning salon and from moment you walk inside, you realise you are in for a special experience. Gone is the old-fashioned check-in desk, instead guests are welcomed into the space immediately to feel part of the fun and relaxed vibe. The salon is ever evolving thanks to the monthly featured artist works lining the walls and features the PIIQ digital mirror technology. The team are industry leaders when it comes to creating trend focused cuts, colours and styles.
OPEN FOR ENTRY
8TH NOVEMBER 2021 ROUND 1 PHOTOGRAPHIC ENTRY DEADLINE
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9TH MAY 2022 GALA AWARDS NIGHT
MONDAY 13TH JUNE 2022
ED…UCATION + CO By Louise May
Edwards + Co. is well-known for producing sparkling brunettes, killer curls, creamy blondes and textured beach waves, having developed a signature look that is synonymous with the brand while gaining a cult international following. With eight salons located in Sydney, Melbourne, Byron Bay, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast, Edwards + Co. has seen dramatic growth both as a hair salon and business throughout its eight years, cementing itself a spot at the forefront of the industry.
Michelle Surace
As well as inspiring a generation of richgirl hair and saturating Instagram feeds all over the world, at the heart of Edwards & Co is its education team, made up of wellaccomplished colourists, stylists and barbers, offering a wealth of knowledge and bringing a creative flair to each and every class. Edwards + Co Education offers a mix of their signature Colour and Styling Workshops, tailored Private Classes, Shadowing Programs and Business Mentoring to take your business to limits beyond your dreams.
“WE RECOGNISE OUR APPRENTICES AS THE NEXT GENERATION OF SUPERSTARS, SO WE ARE HEAVILY INVESTED IN THEIR ENGAGEMENT AND GROWTH. ” MICHELLE SURACE
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Editor Louise May spoke with Michelle Surace, Education Director of Edwards + Co to find out more about their Emerging Academy, and how they grow their own highly skilled stylists, internally. What do you look for in an applicant, when taking on new apprentices? We are looking for driven and keen individuals with a genuine passion for the industry – everything else we can teach! When do your apprentices start on the floor? For the first two years, we focus on getting our apprentices hands on with glossing, blow drying and treatments. These are what we consider to be non-negotiable skills that will advance them further, and faster. This is all while they attend Emerging Academy on Tuesday every week.
Once they finish their TAFE units, they are given a tailored plan according to their development areas – if they need more focus on low lights for example, the Educators will assign those kinds of models – it’s really so individual to their needs. They will also be able to bring in models during the week to hone in their skills. Upon completing their Apprenticeship, they step into a Senior Emerging Stylist role, which sees them starting to take clients, their first taste of a commission scheme and building their competency as a stylist. What do you offer ‘ in-house’ to keep them focused and excited? I think the real question is what we don’t do! We recognise our apprentices as the next generation of superstars, so we are heavily invested in their engagement and growth.
We have an Emerging Stylist of the Year Award which is voted based on different criteria, and we also run skill focused incentives regularly so they can practice their learnings and earn bonuses. What does it take to be awarded apprentice of the year? Every Emerging Stylist knows – it’s 50% us and 50% them, so they absolutely have to put the hard work in. We don’t have financial KPIs as such, they are all focused on education targets: Bringing models each week to education, completing their TAFE units on time, displaying the expected skills based on the year they are in, etc. We are really big on behaviour too, so we will observe things like ownership, teamwork, communication – all they key ingredients to being a great stylist. Can you tell us a little more about you current ‘Apprentice of the Year’ for 20/21, Madeleine Hulm? Maddie was a model student – she always brought the right models, collaborated closely with her Educators on her skill gaps and even went to TAFE on Mondays to get her units done. In salon, Maddie would put her hand up for anything – training, assisting, you name it. She has a can-do attitude and was super passionate about her craft. She took home the $3,000 prize – which is awarded to Apprentice of the Year each January. Outside of education on skills, what else do you provide for apprentices to ensure a fulfilling apprenticeship and longevity in the industry? Outside of the Salon team, our Education Director and People + Culture Manager work very closely together to ensure all apprentices’ learning and personal needs are met. We support our apprentices with counselling if they need, gym membership of their choice and 5 weeks of leave but first and foremost, we make time for them. We spend a lot of time in salon with them, listening and hearing them out – which is usually the most important thing to them. Editor Louise May also spoke to the E+Co. Apprentice of the Year Madeleine Hulm about her journey so far….
Madeleine Hulm What stood out to you when applying for an apprenticeship with E+Co? and why did you choose them as your place of employment? Deciding to come back to hairdressing as a 27-year-old mature age apprentice was quite daunting, as I felt I may have missed the boat. When I started doing my research, I was completely drawn to the high standard of E+Co. Jaye has made becoming an apprentice within his team so inviting by offering in house academy training, where we focus on implementing modern techniques while still adhering to the Tafe curriculum. It doesn’t stop there either. I saw E+Co as a company of endless opportunities, and I knew that is where I needed to be. The lived-in blondes, the glossy brunettes. They seemed so ahead of the game, and I knew I wanted to be a part of that culture. E+Co offers amazing education opportunities both in-house and external. I remember when I went for my interview and when I walked into the Crown St salon, I thought to myself “WOAH!! I have to get this job “ In my 3 years at E+Co I have grown so much. I have created an abundance mindset for myself. I learn and take in so much from my E+Co family every day and having been Jaye’s assistant on and off when he comes to Sydney, has just been incredible. I’m very grateful for my career within the company and would urge any apprentice who is thinking about a career in hairdressing to definitely get it touch. Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
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COLOUR COLLAB
South Australian hairdressers, get ready for the next level of collaborative creative education! UNITY Hair Education Collab Launches in Adelaide!
A joint passion and obsession for education, In Awe Salon’s Megan Panozzo and Director of Hair Brain Education, Abi Wales, have teamed up to launch UNITY Hair Education, an imaginative and exciting series of hair education collaborations showcasing inspiring and creative content from some of the best artists in the Adelaide hairdressing scene. UNITY Hair Education is a space for free thinkers and like-minded people, a platform for local Adelaide Creative Artists and Educators to grow stronger connections within the local hair community, jamming with each other in a truly collaborative way. “There is a huge collective of amazing hairdressers in SA who provide incredible education, and we wanted to create a space for them to connect with other salons and hairdressers in a nondenominational way at an affordable price,” says Megan. “Abi & I have come together in the most dynamic way, and we can’t wait to share the infectious energy that we and so many other stylists/educators have to offer. If we can contribute to the growth of our local industry through watching and participation it can only be an amazing outcome.” An educator and session stylist, Abi has worked all over the world creating style and education for some of the world’s largest fashion 48
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Megan Panozzo & Abi Wales houses and a plethora of salons, whilst also assisting salon businesses via some of Australia’s best product companies. Abi has a company called Hairbrain, that is tailored salon education, to get juniors on the floor making money because the industry needs more seniors. Abi discovered a gap in the industry, when she had been working for a couple of local companies as a rep and educator, and saw that salons were screaming out for staff and needing to get their kids on the floor, because salon owners are so busy, that it’s hard to make time to train them. So, Abi started creating bespoke education programs to get those kids on the floor sooner, and this has now provided an opportunity to grow the industry. “We will be showcasing Juniors all the way through to Owners, Managers and Educators, With Unity Hair Education, there isn’t a cap on any level of creativity or imagination! I feel like there is nothing like this in our industry and there is a real market for sharing ideas and connecting with each other.” “I’m truly excited to bring our beautiful local community together and share knowledge with each other; after the past year, there is a real hunger for bringing everyone together and buzzing off our vibes and energy.” Says Abi. Unity Education Kicked off at the end of May at In Awe Salon, the first instalment saw Abi and Megan presenting, along with junior presenter Demi GowSmith, a 3rd year at In Awe. In the presentations Abi breaks down 2 haircuts;
Abi Wales, Demi Gow-Smith, & Megan Panozzo
a curly model, showcasing specific scissor techniques for curly hair, and the second cut a short layered, shag technique. Megan will demonstrate how to create shape and texture with colour in curly hair. Demi will present a pre-done model, highlighting her creativity with creative colour.
because everyone has an opportunity to be part of Unity. We particularly wanted to give junior stylists an opportunity to share their love of hair, no matter what level they’re at.
Megan is currently creating a short hair boot camp program to encourage younger hairdressers to feel more confident in tackling short hair in the salon. I also have a razor cutting class coming up on the 2nd of August, so stay tuned to my Insta for the dates and any other dates that will be coming up in the not-too-distant future. Says Megan.
Abi and I both have a passion for education and the people we get to meet through those channels. Sharing what we know and connecting and jamming with other creatives is what it’s all about. We hadn’t seen each other for a few weeks and had both had a feeling that we wanted to do something great for the industry. Abi popped into the salon to say hi and we literally both said, “I want to do this thing” and we named it Unity then and there, filmed an introduction video and planned our talent list. We have become a better team than I think we ever even imagined we would be!
“We are so excited about the UNITY Hair Education movement in Adelaide, and with all our artists already booked for key dates this year, we’re looking at educators & salons for next year! Watch this space!” States Megan. We caught up with Megan recently, and found out a little more about their brainchild “Unity Hair”
What do you feel is so unique about the Unity Hair concept? Unity is different because we wanted to give a platform to amazing stylists who don’t always catch the eye of companies but have an amazing amount of talent and knowledge to share with their peers. Says Megan. It’s also a really great way to connect with the industry and network
What inspired you to collaborate and create the Education Platform?
Who is it for? Is it for all levels of experience?
It’s for anyone who wants to share, being that it’s held at In Awe Salon, we can keep the numbers down and create an intimate and united experience. The audience gets involved and is a massive part of the ambiance.
Is it hands on or look and learn?
Its look and learn, but we are hoping that it gives our guest artists an opportunity to sell their own education packages and create hands on experiences either in salon or as a standalone event.
We have all really missed hands on education over the last 18 months, so it’s fun to all learn together again. Abi is passionate about educating juniors to help salon owners to get them on the floor, especially given our rate of apprentice drop out and the stress on salon owners to run their salons, most often these days with a lack of qualified staff on board to help. I’ve been working my way up to creating an education division of In Awe Salon. One) because I love education and two) to create opportunities for my team to have an opportunity to work towards that space too. I think it’s so important to find ways to grow your team in the ways that they want, so giving them the opportunity to grow in a space that teaches them to grow as stylists and educators is massively important at In Awe Salon. This industry of ours is so exciting and varied in the opportunities that are presented to us, it’s really exciting for Abi and I to see what Unity is going to do here in South Australia and we have some pretty big goals for the future too, so watch this space! To keep up with the UNITY Hair Education Collab and key dates for tickets, follow here: @unity.hair.ed For more information, DM Megan @meganpanozzo_creative OR Abi @abiwales_hair
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ADAPTING SEASONAL TRENDS By Kristie Kesic
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Once upon a time trends were ruled by 2 seasons. In Summer you would go light, in Winter you would go dark. Whether it suited you or not, or it was doing your hair damage or not, it’s what you did, just because that was the seasonal trend. Fast forward to 2021, we now embrace that there is more to life than being blonde in summer and brunette in winter. As hairdressers we have learnt to promote personalised beauty and colours that suit the individual no matter what the season. This being said what do we do when our blondies want to stay blonde in winter but want a change, or our brunettes actually love being dark but still want a change in summer. I’ve highlighted some go to techniques that you will want to incorporate into your salons or bring into the conversation at consultation time, to help change up your clients colours they ask for a change.
BLONDIES
clients eyes POP! So, no matter how much of a change they may want, you never want to take that eye pop away. By creating a balayage in which the dark colour still draws the attention to the eyes, you will maintain that benefit of the dark colour on their facial features and then you can open up the rest of the colour through the ends with a balayage. A great tip is don’t go to light. Sometimes the beauty is in the subtlety of the colour. Creating a variance of 2-3 shades in colour is all it needs to add maximum effect. Always remember brunette clients are generally low maintenance clients so when offering a change. It important to remember this.
You’ve worked hard to get your client to the perfect blonde. Their hair is healthy, it suits their haircut, their personality , their features and now it’s Winter they tell you they want a change. You know they aren’t going to suit dark and you’re certainly not going to have to try and bleach that darkness out, come summertime. So, what could you suggest?
COPPER
FACE FRAME AND DIMENSION.
If the copper wants a change, I will never offer too light or to dark, because all you’re going to get in 3 weeks’ time is a glowing copper regrowth.
Blondes like to see brightness around their face and when they pull their hair back. If they don’t see this, they will feel too dark. I call this, ‘it’s a blonde thing’. By keeping a light face frame and then adding in multi tone dimensions to the rest of the hair, you will be able to offer your client a colour they will notice the difference, but still feel light and bright. Tip for adding in dimension. Add in 2 slightly deeper colours among your bleach foil, but only 1-2 shades apart. This creates maximum dimension but still a soft and natural look rather than just adding in 1 contrasting colour to the blonde.
BRUNETTES Your brunette clients are usually brunette because, it suits their eye colour, skin tone, they like low maintenance and they love their hair looking shinny. But they are now a bit sick or being just an all-over dark colour and they want a change. A great option to offer them is a balayage. A perfect brunette colour will make your
There is nothing better than copper in its natural form. We all know those dream clients that come in with their natural copper hair. Never coloured with all those perfect multitone strands. Copper is the colour that looks most natural when there’s loads of dimension.
A wonderful solution is baby light foils to create more dimension. Add in supper fine strands of pinkie tones, a light peach or brighter copper By utilising the above techniques, you are able to give clients options when it comes to wanting a change with their colour, all while maintaining a tone or depth that suits them the best. Because after all there is more to offer our clients than just two seasons and you will maintain clients by offering a change that is personalised to them, rather than matched to a season. Kristie Kesic, owner and creative director of Cobelle Creative. Australian Colour Technician of the Year finalist 6 times, Educator through Flawless Education, Wella Top Artist and Master Colour Expert. A Colour specialist who values collaboration and the sharing of skills. Insta: @cobellecreative Web: www.cobellecreative.com.au Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
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SCALP HEALTH 101
By Simone Lee
What influences A healthy scalp?
Many contributing factors influence optimum scalp health. Therefore, maintaining a healthy scalp environment is essential. Health and hygiene, lifestyle factors such as exercise, diet, nutrition, medical conditions, medications, harsh chemicals, hair/scalp products, and hydration can influence the scalp environment.
Why is a healthy Scalp Health Important? The natural replacement of scalp and body hair is maintained by the hair growth cycle. However, unhealthy scalp conditions sometimes affect this cycle, altering the hair’s appearance, condition, density, texture, and even hair thinning and hair loss.
What is the difference between healthy and unhealthy scalps? The appearance and condition of hair vary from person to person. If your scalp is generally healthy, you are usually better equipped to produce and maintain healthier hair with a natural shine, lustre and strength. However, it is essential to recognize that this may not always be the situation. Even if you have a healthy scalp, a person’s hair may still appear dull, brittle, shredded, and lifeless due to many different complaints. Genetics and hormones often play a part and contribute to one of the most common causes of hair loss- Make and female pattern hair thinning. Sometimes people who present with male and female pattern hair thinning have scalps that appear healthy to the eye, but their hair is fine and brittle. Applying chemicals to hair (such as hair dyes) may alter the hair’s appearance, but the scalp can still present with a healthy environment. Similarly, chemicals applied to the scalp sometimes dramatically affect the scalp’s environment and appearance. An unhealthy scalp environment can also vary in appearance and may not always be visible. Noticeable signs and symptoms of a scalp that may require therapy include: flakey skin or dandruff, itching, peeling, dryness, blisters, sores, parasitic infections such as Tinea Capatis (ringworm), head lice, redness or inflammation, and excessive oiliness or odorous smells.
How can you combat dry, itchy, or oily scalp complaints? It is best to consult your Hairdresser, Trichologist, Dermatologist, or Doctor for appropriate advice. To effectively treat the scalp, it is necessary to know the cause of the problem. Many conditions that can cause an itchy scalp or produce excessive scalp oiliness require different treatment methods. Sometimes if a complaint is left untreated secondary conditions may occur. For example, bacteria that exist underneath fingernails can contribute to secondary bacterial scalp complaints through transfer to the scalp from the fingernails during scratching.
Does taking supplements or dietary planning help scalp health? There are an array of hair and scalp supplements, both topical and oral, available for consumer 52
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purchase. Consult a Trichologist, Doctor, or Dermatologist for professional advice. Monounsaturated fatty acids that are contained in Avocado oil which are often used in hair treatments or masks, may - nourish and strengthen hair fibers when applied topically, moisturize the scalp and stimulate the scalps blood flow to the hair follicle and assist in unclogging blocked scalp pores that often are the cause of scalp itchiness and irritation.
Massage is also considered by many to be a form of relaxation that can assist in alleviating stress and promote a sense of well-being. Stress may cause the scalp to become tight, restricting blood circulation, affecting the hair growth cycle. In addition, stress is often associated with producing specific hormones in the body that may alter certain organs efficiency also affecting hair growth.
Fish oil consumption has been known to promote hair shine and strength. The Omega 3 Fatty acids that are present in fish oil help to reduce skin dryness which often lead to an itchy scalp or dandruff.
What ingredients in hair cosmetics assist hair and scalp health?
Can scalp exfoliation help? Like your body skin, the scalp can appear dull, grimy, flakey, and contain a build-up of dirt or product. It is always best to consult your Hairdresser, Trichologist, Doctor or Dermatologist for advice about what type of therapy is required to treat the scalp and hair in these circumstances. Many different scalp scrubs exist in the market, but these products may not be suitable for your hair or scalp complaint. Excessive scrubbing may further irritate already sensitive skin and cause damage to the scalp and hair. Your practitioner may prescribe a series of in-salon treatments to be conducted by a professional as a preferred therapy option with a prescribed home maintenance program. Some shampoo and conditioners can clog your pores. However, hair care products are labelled noncomedogenic, which means they have been designed and formulated with ingredients that should not clog pores. Finer textured highly coloured, or sensitized hair derived from an oily scalp will require different product types for care than fine, non-coloured normal conditioned hair grown from a dry scalp. Many companies produce hair and scalp care products that may be used in unison to achieve the desired result.
Will massaging your scalp really stimulate hair growth? When a scalp massage has been conducted appropriately, it can cause an increase in blood circulation through the scalp. The warmth generated from the massage often increases the skin’s temperature, opening up blood vessels boosting the blood flow. As a result, the hair follicle may receive more of the nutrients required to maintain the hair growth cycle function.
The ingredients required to maintain a healthy environment and hair condition will depend upon the existing environment of the scalp and the hair type, texture and condition. Every person’s hair and scalp is unique, and requires individual assessment. “Get to know your hair”
When treating various scalp and hair complaints I often look towards treatment products that contain some of my favourite ingredients some of these are: Coconut Oil - May improve hair strength. Olive Oil, Palm Oil, Jojoba oil – Known to improve hair shine and moisture, Jojoba oil also can assist in regulation of sebum production Hydrolyzed Keratin – Assists in preventing hair breakage by nourishing the hair shaft Aragon Oil- May - help unclog blocked hair follicles, improve elasticity, essential nutrition to the living cells of the scalp, assist in moisture retention, Avocado Oil- Aids in protecting and moisturizing brittle and damaged hair, may assist in unblocking clogged follicles. Betaine – Known to soften and strengthens hair, may - assist in moisture balance, protecting scalp from dehydration and add volume Niacin amide Vitamin B3 – Promotes healthy hair growth, assists in in improving blood flow to the scalp Pure Aloe Vera Powder- May - promote hair growth, reduce scalp itching, promote hair strength and shine, provide anti fungal properties Honey (Tasmanian Leather Wood) – Contains anti bacterial properties, may assist in moisture and water retention, keeping the cuticle soft. Lavender essential oil – Antiseptic properties that help treat dry scalps and itching.
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A KALEIDOSCOPE OF COLOUR By Anthony Gray
Chroma is the Greek word for colour and Chroma Hair Studio was inspired by a kaleidoscope view into colour and creating a client service-centric salon. Kim and her husband George Astro opened Chroma Hair Studio in November of 2009. The desire was two-fold: introduce a new salon to the West End community and create a place where knowledge could be passed on. As both Kim and George have roots in the area, setting up shop in Highgate Hill in Brisbane inner city suburb was a natural choice. “The West End culture is a very positive experience in our lives. Our children grew up in the beautiful surroundings of the multicultural West End. Chroma Hair Studio is a team of nine, caring, talented and inspired hairdressers who create amazing looks for their clients. The team consists of six stylists, two apprentices and a salon assistant. As the name suggests Chroma are the colour experts with a reputation for amazing balayage
education and inspiration for hairdressers across Australia while also engaging in photo shoots, stage work, and entering hair competitions. As part of the L’Oreal Australian design team Kim educates in her signature balayage techniques – Selfie lights, Glam lights and Sassy lights across the country “My goal is to inspire and empower others,” said Kim. “To continue spreading the love of education through the hairdressing world, be the best educator, boss and mum I can be while running a very successful business and having a bloody fun time on the journey.”
In the 11 years since its opening, Chroma has drawn a loyal following. The sense of community, which is available in droves in West End is what rests at Chroma’s core. It is a place without hierarchy, where team members respect and care for each other, thriving in the art of hair styling. “We love coming to work every day because it’s the best feeling in the world to see how confident and happy our clients are because they know they look beautiful.”
As the AHIA “Best In- Salon Training” award recipient and QLD State Salon of the year finalist in 2016, education is fundamental to Chroma Hair Studio’s DNA. The education philosophy starts at the very beginning with a tailored and specific recruitment process. The key ingredient being a quest for personality and passion. An apprentice or stylist with personality and passion is key. “If the person has those attributes then the extra training and skills are easy to teach.”
Kim Astro does not understand the concept of a dull day — the hair guru has owned salons since she was 19 and education has always played a critical role. Kim is a member of the L’Oreal Matrix Australian Design Team working to provide
The team follows an innovative training approach which is tailored to the needs of each individual stylists. Each team member completes a training planner at the beginning of the year. The planner focuses on skills and each member undertakes a detailed self-assessment where they rate themselves across the range of skills, highlighting areas where they would like extra education and training. From this self-assessment Kim designs an individual training plan for each team member for the year. In addition to the individual training plans structured weekly training ensures everyone is up to date on styles, trends, and helping clients find what they did not even know they needed.
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To support the in-salon training program Chroma Hair Designs have important partnerships in place. “MIG Training are our main training partners. They have been looking after our apprentices since 2010. Before that, we were using a different provider but getting very little training and communication. Since partnering with MIG, training future superstars has become a much simpler process” MIG + In-Salon + tailored extra education is the approach to apprenticeship training and the secret to the success in Chroma developing their own. The training approach incorporates a workplace model of delivery where MIG mentor, support and assess in-salon. This approach has been successful for many years. In recent times this approach has also been adapted to include a component of traditional college delivery at MIG. As always Chroma are constantly looking for the edge in building the skills of the team. The structured approach to internal training and working closely with education partners and suppliers is rounded off with an incredible connection to industry and external educators. Team Chroma connect with the very best in education and training by networking and attending all major industry events. A culture of education, growth and connection has delivered on Chroma’s founding desire to create a place where knowledge could be passed on. Combined with a passion for the industry and an incredibly positive, caring approach to the way they treat people, Chroma has built a much-loved brand that is respected by all who cross their path.
THE HAIR PIN
Nestled in the North Brisbane suburb of Ferny Hills ‘The Hair Pin’ is a well-established hair salon conveniently located in Ferny Fair Shopping Centre. Owner and Director Ally McErlean has over 30 years of hairdressing experience, both as a salon owner and previously as a regional manager for a large chain of salons. The Hair Pin was established in 2015 and to date, Ally has built an amazing team of 19 diverse and experienced hair stylists, each having their own unique style and creative vibe. Louise May spoke with Ally to find out more about her leadership qualities and what special ingredients she has, that has enabled her to grow the business and the team exponentially year upon year since opening 6 years ago.
Was Business Ownership Always a Priority for You?
No Business ownership was not a priority, however creating a space that gave us a work-life balance and being able to still 58
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do the things we loved, was a priority. I just wanted to create a space of likeminded, kind, and fun people who love coming to work each day, and the clients fall in love with the vibe.
How Do You Develop Your Team to Help Them to Be The Best They Can Be?
What Specific Qualities or Characteristics Do You Look for When Selecting Potential Staff for Your Salon?
What Are Your Secrets for Building a Happy and High Performing Team?
Someone who has vision, loyalty and wants to work as part of a team and still likes to have fun. Obviously, skill is important, however with our training we can help get everyone on the same page.
Share With Us Your Philosophies Around Staff Selection and Development. How Do You Find, Keep and Grow High Performing Staff?
I look for staff who want to improve and are hungry for education.
encouragement and support and lots of education and training.
We try to make sure every day is a positive one and organise consistent team building events and trips away to have something to work towards.
What Do You Enjoy Most About Your Business, Team or Clients?
I like a good work balance, If I was not doing clients, I would miss it and I think it is good for your staff to see you with clients. However, I do like to have the time to help out and back my staff up and to nurture their careers. Clients love our culture and enjoy being
a part of it, staff- friendships, growth in stylists from apprentice to senior, new staff with new training and support to become confident
Share With Us Some of The Biggest Challenges You’ve Faced Along the Journey and How You Overcame these.
The biggest challenges I have faced started with opening a business with staff and not having a steady clientele, taking that risk in the first place was a big one, then refurbishing and relocating the salon, the weeks leading up to Christmas. (twice) Then the biggest one I would say in navigating our way through a pandemic and not knowing what the future of the industry would be. We just set out to make our clients happy and didn’t focus on $$$ and I think that is a big factor as it is more genuine.
What Would You Say Are the Core Values or Philosophies Which Define Your Business and Leadership Style?
Creating a warm welcoming environment that is positive for both staff and clients and leading by example, encourages staff to consider the work environment a challenging yet rewarding place to be. Being true ourselves. celebrating what makes us different from each other.
What Are Your Secrets to Juggling the Demands of Running a Busy Salon And Having A Work /Life Balance?
Making sure you have the right people in your corner to help out, and I have a supportive family unit. With a team of 19, I definitely need the help of my amazing Salon Co-Ordinator Bec. She is amazing with paperwork, and I am not so we are a great team together.
What Has Been Your Greatest Lesson or Piece of Advice Along Your Business Journey?
Probably to back yourself, and let people help you.
What Advice Would You Give Others Who Dream of Building an Impactful Brand?
Do It!! I never dreamt The Hair Pin would become such an empire. Be kind to your past peers, because you never know when you will need staff and they will remember if you were fair or not! Lastly, be a leader… not a boss.
What’s On the Agenda for The Future?
We are planning on building on our brand and expanding further and would like to enter the education world and spend more time showcasing the talented people on our team. Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
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DREAM BIG In 2012, Steph Meyer completed her hairdressing apprenticeship at The Gordon, Geelong. She is now the thriving owner of the blonde and balayage powerhouse salon, Steph Meyer & Co – St Kilda. The award-winning stylist has cemented her outstanding reputation in the industry, having aligned herself with professional brands such as EVY PROFESSIONAL, Zen Master Scissors and as a Brazilian Bond Builder Australian Artist.
Sharing her passion for hairdressing, Steph hosts in-house blonde/balayage specialist workshops for qualified hairdressers, some in association with Schwarzkopf. Steph has recently opened her second salon in Horsham, Victoria and isn’t ruling out the possibility of a third.
Steph began her apprenticeship at 17 years old, in Horsham, with the dream of one day opening her own salon. Determined to succeed, she completed her qualification in just two years and then went on to participate in, and win, hairdressing competitions including HBIA Total Look Beautiful Brides in 2015. In 2017, Steph made the big move to Melbourne working in a salon, before an opportunity to pursue her dream arose. “I always wanted to open my own salon”, says Steph, “my initial intention was to move to Melbourne for a couple of years to learn and grow, then I would go home [to Horsham] and open a salon. I guess I just always had the drive and determination to have my own salon so when an opportunity came up in St Kilda, I couldn’t not take it”. In May 2018, Steph came across the perfect space for an intimate concept salon and opened the exclusive Steph Meyer & Co – St Kilda. The word around the southern suburbs spread quickly about the polished and friendly salon, who specialises in mastering blonde colouring and balayage. Steph Meyer & Co grew rapidly. “Being an exclusive salon, I was only working with one client at a time, so I was booked out fast”, says Steph, “Within the first 12 months, I employed an assistant and tried the “old school” method and worked between two clients at a time. It created an uninviting vibe and stress in the space so I decided to (unfortunately) let my assistant go and hired a fully qualified hairdresser who also worked with one client of her own at a time”. This allowed us to take the time with application and achieve the best blonde for our clients. 2018 was a busy year for Steph; not only was her first salon a thriving success, she also introduced an education calendar to share her blonding expertise with qualified hairdressers. Aside from the in-house, intimate workshops, Steph also ran classes of up to 20 hairdressers in association with Schwarzkopf. Steph also shot her fist collection in 2018 and got finalist for all 3 categories entered in 2019 Hair expo Creative force, AHFA New Comer of the year and AHIA Rising star female. Now, three years on from opening her first salon, Steph is engaged to her boyfriend of 10 years, Jason, and expecting their first child in August. “Jason and I actually met at a salon when I was an apprentice. I was sweeping hair next to him and the hairdresser cutting his hair looked
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at him, then me, and said ‘you two should get together’. I just giggled and ran out the back. He was three years older than me, so I didn’t know him. We met properly at an event the following weekend, became friends and the rest is history”, says Steph. The young stylist, hairdresser and business owner has added a new skill to her title; she has been working rigorously to renovate and open her second location in Horsham, while recruiting new staff for both locations and overseeing the St Kilda salon. After nine week of renovations, Steph Meyer & Co – Horsham, opened to client bookings on June 4, 2021, previously a fashion boutique of over 80-years, Steph has transformed the building. Now, the large boutique-style salon has an Art Deco feel with industrial features, including a pressed metal ceiling and gold touches in the furniture. Steph and her team of builders are currently refurbishing the timber taken from the floor and creating what is set to be the centrefeature of the space, a floating staircase. The stunning staircase will lead to the mezzanine where there will be an area dedicated to filming content – to take photos of clients’ hair, as well as an open relaxing space where clients will be able to chill out with a hot beverage and free Wi-Fi. St Kilda remains as the boutique hair studio – on the top floor of a bunch of other creatives studios. “We have floor to ceiling shutter windows that look out to St Kilda beach, Palais Theatres & Luna Park.” says Steph. It is so encouraging to see such determination and growth within the industry showing us that despite current challenges it is in safe hands with the likes of Steph Meyer.
SPOTLIGHT ON A HOT SHOT
ELIE KASHI Continuing our series of articles on the 2020/21 HOT SHOTS Team, we finish up with none other than Elie Kashi from Royals hair. Elie started doing hair when he was 15 at his uncle’s celebrity salon in Syria while also studying English Literature. At the age of 18 he was managing the salon but when war hit his country, this tale becomes not only one of passion and determination but also of bravery when he was kidnapped by ISIS! Thankfully after being rescued and saved by the army he fled to Lebanon and after two years requested to come to Australia as a refugee. The rest as they say is history, where, after some time in a local salon he found his ‘home’ at Royals Hair in Sydney and part of the family with Adam and Mary Alamine. His accolades to date include 2018 AHFA Finalist Apprentice of the Year, 2019 Hair Expo Finalist Artistic Team of the Year, 2019 Key Stylist at GenNext Hair Expo, 2019 AHFA Finalist Artistic Team of the Year, 2019 AHFA Finalist Hot Shots and 2020 AHIA Winner Shots. Elie is in discussions now to become a business partner with Mary and Adam in a new salon, a testament to his skillset and drive, so we caught up with Elie to talk about his life here in Australia, his future goals and his dreams. We certainly hope all he wishes for will come true for this resilient and beautiful individual.
What made you want to be a hairdresser?
I grew up with a family full of hairdressers, but I mainly love the
feeling you get when you can make someone happy and confidant or even give them the ability to change their life by simply doing their hair. It is something you can’t find just anywhere.
What kind of hair work is your favourite and why?
I enjoy everything I do in hair, but I find colouring is where I can express my creativity and happiness. Really, it’s an unending world when it comes to colouring and I believe it is a great way of challenging myself in my technical and creative ability.
What inspired you to become a business partner with royals in a new salon and how did that come about?
Sometimes what you need comes about by just being honesty, loyal and reliable. I am so lucky that I am working with Royals where you are actually seen and appreciated. We are more like a family and now still working on the potential partnership but Covid has delayed things a little. We are in no rush and when the time is right I am sure it will be good for us all.
How to you manage life and work balance?
To be honest my life is about hair all the time. I don’t call it work when I enjoy what I do. If I have a day off I often just pop into the salon and see if they need any help or do some online educating.
Who inspires you in the creative field of hairdressing and why?
Sharon Blain! She inspires me in so many ways. The creativity and passion she has for the hair industry is amazing and to share her
knowledge as she does makes her a true inspiration to me. I feel that we have the same values in terms of the fact that no matter where you are or what age you are, you are still able to improve yourself and your skills. There are no obstacles that cannot be overcome.
If you could spend a day with anyone from a business mentorship perspective who would it be and why?
Dario Cotroneo. He is my idol, to be honest. Words cannot describe how much I love this man. His knowledge is at the top and the way he delivers his ideas and messages are both relatable and incredible. The way he talks just makes you feel comfortable and boosts your confidence.
How important are competitions and awards for you?
Winning an award is truly a great feeling but that doesn’t define who I am. As a very competitive person, however, I like to challenge myself and know that winning competitions
and awards gives my work the chance to be recognised and then the ability to share and motivate others, making them also believe that anything is possible.
Can you tell us a little about your time in the Hot Shots Team and House so far and what you have to look forward to ?
As soon as I walked in to the house I felt like I was home. We blended in really quickly and felt like we had known each other for years, just like a family. We learnt so much from each other and shared valuable experiences. I am really looking forward to the photo shoot with the team and Jayne Wild and Andrew O’Toole, putting all the pieces together and bringing it to life. The experience and skills I have obtained from this are priceless and I feel very blessed!
Where do you see yourself in 10 year time? A business owner and winning more competitions and awards
SOME FUN… Worst moment in your fashion life That one time when the director for the show didn’t show up and everyone was trying to find a replacement. Absolute chaos with everyone working on their own! Worst moment in your hair life It was actually when there was no one free to wash my foils …then I woke up and it was all in my dreams haha Fav drink Vodka or Long island If you weren’t a hairdresser you would be a … English professor at University. I love sharing my knowledge with others to help them grow Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
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LES ECORCHES
SEMPER EADEM
RANGO
THE WITH OPEN EYE ROBERT MASCIAVE,UK Founder of Metropolis Hairdressing and Inventor of Eblade Hairdressing Tools
If anyone has the key to the door of their salon it’s Robert Masciave, celebrating 21 years as founder of Metropolis Hairdressing – a true destination for their 3,000 clients. It is his love and passion for the avantgarde however that has put has earned him international acclaim. “Outside of the salon I have always used hair as a form of expression that in turn makes sense of what I do with hair. Over the course of the next few months, I will be speaking with likeminded people and asking them to share their experiences. I am curious to see what their point of view is, what they have learned from it – did it notice the way that they see things? Does it make them think outside the box? Does it increase your problem-solving skills? Does it make you more creative? I know what it did for me, I know what it does to me, I know the benefit I just want to find out if it is the same for everyone.” Hair Biz are proud to be the host of Roberts’ journey as he interviews fellow connoisseurs of the avantgarde in a series of features. Robert’s curiosity and creativity found an outlet as he began to explore more experimental ways to interpret the ever-wilder hair visions he was imagining. ‘I started doing the hair for club nights,’ explains Robert. ‘The clothes were weird and outrageous, but the hair didn’t reflect that.’ Before long, he was catching the eye of photographers who wanted to collaborate with someone who wasn’t afraid to push boundaries. Again, this was a passion he wasn’t pursuing for financial gain, but just as a means to explore the possibilities of the craft he loved. In fact, he 64
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says himself it was a way of challenging himself. He also wanted to gauge the emotional reaction of the public and perhaps unlock a deeper significance in what he was doing. Arguably, it was here that a love of Avant-Garde, which would become his trademark style, was born. When reflecting on what it is that makes this style so appealing, Robert says, ‘AvantGarde is a form of expression to me. I view hair as a material, and it has limitless possibilities.’ In Robert’s eyes, hairdressing has two aspects, which mirror fashion in many ways – haute couture and ready to wear. It’s his commitment to learning the fundamentals that has allowed him throughout his career to take the risks that have made him stand out above so many of his peers. ‘It’s all very well having ideas, but without technique you’ll never be able to express them,’ Robert justifiably says. As well as gathering all the skills he needed to shine, another shrewd move was embracing technology and becoming one of the first hairdressers to have an online presence. ‘Truth is, I’ve always been an innovator and I believe that creativity and technology should be in tune with each other,’ Robert confides. ‘But I was also worried about losing all my images, and I wanted a place where they would exist forever.’ Initially I started experimenting with avantgarde
as a form of expression. I was creating looks and realised that when I was doing them, they challenged me, so I would invent techniques and I practice again and again to the point where it all became quite simple. The joy for me was I was creating problems and overcoming them with a technique that I was personally inventing. I was thinking outside the box, I was problem solving. It soon became an integral part of my creativity, and I became better at it. It is like a muscle, the more you exercise it the stronger you become. Like life you have a challenge, you find a solution. I started creating avantgarde non-stop in every spare moment, and I had to ask myself why I was doing it. I was also criticised heavily and although I don’t applaud or even like Lady Gaga – she did me the power of good in making avantgarde cool. Alexander McQueen was introducing avantgarde
THE DOVE
to the runway and I could see a need for the industry to evolve in this arena in order to reshape our future. If you are in business, it has become vital for us all to start thinking outside of the box. Some people think that the only way to be creative is to do avantgarde work. Avantgarde is one of the most challenging creative exercises as it finds you in unchartered territory, something that has never been done before, creating techniques never used before, so your chance of failing is very high, that in itself is a great motivator as the discovery is great. There is such a hidden happiness when everything aligns which brings a beautiful balance to your work and your life. And this is why I love avantgarde – it helps me to keep a sense of balance and signifies what is important.
THE MINOTAUR
I went to see a Picasso exhibition and he had drawings of bulls, minotaur’s that I couldn’t’ get out of my head. My friend Natacha Marro, shoe designer to the stars, commissioned me to do a shoot with them – they wanted the shoot to just be hair and shoes. It couldn’t look sexy so I met the brief with this – inspired by Picasso.
SEMPER EADEM
This look explores the enigmatic effect of layering cultures upon cultures to a point where we are unable to distinguish where they come from and what they stand for. The hair has a tribal feel using wings, feathers, etc. The idea was to merge the hair with wings to create pieces looking as if they naturally grew on the model (in a similar way that horns grow on animals.) I wanted to create looks using taxidermy (full wings) as I knew they were challenging to manipulate. This look is made of 6 crows wings. The real challenge was to create a symmetrical look out of wings which are organic and always unique. The clothes are super important to complete the character of the look and had to be Elizabethan – I couldn’t find the right gloves for the model to wear so I made them.
THE NIGHT QUEEN
THE SOUL OF MAN
THE MINOTAUR
LES ECORCHES
‘Les Ecorches’ was born from asking myself a question, “If I had a tribe, what would they do and, most importantly, what would they wear?” My imagined tribe is unified in look and behaviour yet comprised of unique characters, exotic yet authentic, violent, and beautiful. The white painted scalp simulates the ‘ecorches’ effect whilst their white facial brand marks each as an elegant warrior of my strange, savage tribe.
RANGO
I love the animation movie ‘RANGO’, I was so inspired by a character in the movie. Although this head piece looks light. It is very heavy due to the structure. The lightness is due to the feathered hair making it very effective on stage when the model walks and the hair moves around.
THE DOVE
The Soul of Man was made specially to raise money for Leukemia Research at the Alternative Hair show. The influence of the design is a cross between Elizabethan clothes and the coat of an animal to emulate the bridge between humans and animals – The beauty and the beast…. The inspiration for this show came from the title of an Oscar Wilde essay, ‘The Soul of Man.’
This look is part of the SEMPER EADEM collection I wanted to recreate the effect when birds open their wings before attacking. The expansion of the wings is fascinating.
ROBERTS KIT
THE NIGHT QUEEN
Chicken wire, wire cutters, spray mount, a 50 degree free spray to freeze the glue, glue gun, resin, varnish, foam, plumbing equipment and several bits originally intended for garden use. Then there is Worbla – a thermal plastic material from which I’ve even made a dress. I also discovered millinery and bought several tools of the milliners and then there was sculpting and the sculptors – the list is endless I’m always continuously evolving my tools.
THE SOUL OF MAN
“Avantgarde is a huge journey – and for me the journey and the challenges you meet along the way are the most exciting part,” says Robert. “Join me over the next few issues as I talk to some of the leading artists in the world.”
This look was commissioned by Revlon Professional for one of their international showcases. The task was to create a beautiful, yet powerful look inspired by the terrifying character in The Game of Thrones, THE NIGHT KING. A little secret: the Night Queen was my technical prototype for another look I had in mind which was going to be my biggest challenge to date... My hair outfit “THE SOUL OF MAN.”
This entire hair outfit took over 500 hours to make using various materials (fabric, thermoplastic), which was covered entirely with 200 metres of human hair wefts.
My personal kit has evolved over the years – it started with visits to the hairdressing shops however its now extended to visits to B&Q!
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WHEN COLOUR IS IN YOUR DNA
Affinage Professional National Technical Education Team
Colour has always been front and centre from the beginning for Leigh Spencer and taking up her new role as Affinage Professional National Product, Brand & Technical Manager sees a new challenge for this focussed and well respected individual. “As soon as I hit the salon floor at Glemby International (part of the David Jones and MYER stores) I felt most excited with a tint brush in my hand.” Says Leigh. “When I moved into the corporate world, I maintained my focus. New formulation swatches landing on my desk inspired me as much as frantic fashion weeks. I also loved finding people who felt the same way I did, colourists who had a really solid understanding of the foundations and then a curiosity to create. My time with Guest Artists, Ambassadors, and Technical Educators is where my best memories have been made. From bringing International collections to the stage, through to late-night conversations over a cocktail or two, hair people are my people, always have been, always will be.” Whether it’s working with international R&D teams or local supply chains and customer services teams, Leigh has always maintained close contact with salons, the owners, managers, senior stylists, and next-gen. “I think it’s important, to never lose sight of the hairdresser, from those with 20 staff to single operators. Their needs change as the salon operations differ, but the drive to discover, create, to serve, to deliver technically sound standout hair, that is a shared value system, and keeping their DNA as a priority in product development should never shift.”
get the job done. I think it’s often overcomplicated. I wouldn’t say I am a minimalist (ask my husband about my shoe collection!) but I think a Marie Kondo approach to product development might be a refreshing approach. Brand Evolution is a key focus. We know where we are in the market and via our distributors, we have a good idea of our audience, but we want to connect more, share more, and celebrate the smaller operators. The population of super successful sole traders and dynamic duos are relevant and worth investing in and I want to pursue that more.
What interested you firstly in terms of joining the Affinage Team?
The people, it’s always the people. My first introduction to the company was with Richard Jolly, we met up 4 or 5 times prior to me coming on board. He has an unwavering commitment and passion for the industry. He is charming and articulate and whilst incredibly experienced 100% open to new ideas. The business is an Australian family-owned and operated, that’s a really nice thing to be part of. Employees have been with the company a long time; an indication of the strength behind the brand. With a head office in Brisbane, it’s unreal to be so close to the head office team day to day. Finally, I would have to say that the agility of a smaller organisation with no-corporate Red Tape policy is refeshing! We can have an idea in the morning and start bringing it to life by the afternoon.
What are Affinage Professional’s nonnegotiable values?
Affinage professional National Product, Brand & Technical Manager
What do you hope to bring to Affinage from your wealth of experience?
I have always worked closely with Brand Managers and the best brand story is one that starts with a technically superior performance and am looking forward to bringing fluidity to the relationship in my role with Affinage. My approach has always been - what is needed to 68
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Social and environmental responsibility is at the heart of everything that we do. We are 100% cruelty-free as a proud member of the PETA Beauty without bunnies association. We look at the changing values of our customers, their changing habits and behaviours, and respond with our product offering and HOW we supply. These values include vegan-friendly, ammoniafree, paraben-free, and sulphate free ranges. Supporting Sustainable Salons to rescue up to 95% of salon resources from landfill and find repurposing solutions that benefit our planet. One of my favourite affiliations is the support of Orange Sky, supporting its effort to connect people experiencing homelessness through free laundry showers and conversation.
Will the education on offer be live in the flesh, at the HQ premises, in salon, online, and/or all of the above, and what can be expected here?
The landscape of education has drastically changed, and we now need to accommodate the learning style of the individual we will cover off all aspects of delivery mentioned - the up close and personal live element I believe is still the most effective & engaging. Digital has come into its own since COVID. It has made us realise what an important tool it is in Education. Digital – can be more conducive to the individual – view when they are ready - so a range of prerecorded & live Seminars will be available moving forward. We are developing an Interactive Online Learning Platform for all things Affinage Professional for 2021/22 – very exciting
“DIGITAL HAS COME INTO ITS OWN SINCE COVID. IT HAS MADE US REALISE WHAT AN IMPORTANT TOOL IT IS IN EDUCATION.” What do you love most about the colour performance and what would you say is its most important point of difference?
It works! 100% EVERY SINGLE TIME. People who have worked with me before, know that I am a stickler for colour performance.
Will you be involved in future developments in colour, trend forecasting, etc with the brand?
This is one of the key areas of the role – future developments are key to our success for the future we have already begun work on several NEW colour initiatives for 2022 which are very exciting for the company – I am a firm believer in “If You Always Do What You’ve Always Done, You’ll Always Get What You’ve Always Got.”
Who will you be working with within your EDU team?
Aside from the highly skilled and experienced Education Team around Australia, we are starting to engage and develop a new Creative Team of very talented individuals from within the industry for 2022 SO WATCH THIS SPACE!
SPIRIT
A collection by Affinage Professional
With intermittent spells spent in lockdown, and the population in a constant state of casual, the pandemic semi-reprise fashion narrative, is fully loaded, with sweat pants being swapped for sequins, and trackies traded in for tulle. In response, Affinage Professional presents a collection that celebrates the remedy of hair as therapy and the awakening of fantasy colour as a valid design asset.
with burnished light copper on a medium ash matte brown base, and a textured Arctic Blonde lightened crop finished with an alluring multidimensional ash tone.
Colour pigment and placement are strong throughout the collection, communicating a retaliation towards the ravaging effect of worldwide closure, and consequent repression of creativity. These looks are designed to stand out, attract attention and denounce social freedom. Profiling the exquisite Affinage Infiniti Permanent Colour range throughout, with the luxurious Satin Tone on Tone to add further definition and high shine, the six looks highlight the impressive performance of the range and the diversity of looks that can be achieved on a multitude of hair types. Heroes of the collection include an opulent rounded graduation featuring an interplay of Infrared copper and Inifiniti rich copper mahogany, a punky mullet punctuated
Spirit marks a happy return to semi-reality for hairdressers and the general population. After a continuously casual wardrobe, cancelled concerts, and a complete travel hiatus, Spirit presents an optimistic platform for re-igniting creative exploration. “This collection is a bold revival of glamour, a response to the zeitgeist that left us all feeling fifty shades of beige. I hope this collection ignites a fire in the belly of the consumer and in the fingertips of those holding the foil. After months of bewilderment and home hair dos, it’s an exciting time to be a professional stylist.” Say’s Simon. This collection really spotlights the core essence of the Affinage colour range, to deploy products that deliver consistently brilliant colour results and a catalogue that incites confident creativity for the professional hairdresser.
CREATIVE TEAM
Simon Crawford - Creative Director -@ownthecomb Mark Matthews - Hair Assistant - @folk.hair Cherice Day – Hair Assistant - @cherice_micolorsalo Stylist - Leigh McCoy - @leighmccoy_ MUG - Jim Artistry -@jim_jirarnuttaruj TOG - Krysta Atkinson - @krystaatkinson_photographer Video - Narrative Hub - @narrativehub Designer - Jennifer Gifford - @jennifergifforddesign Leigh Spencer – Brand Manager Affinage Professional
COVER STORY
When it comes to globally renowned fashion icons, there’s one name that immediately springs to mind… Chiara Ferragni. The Italian fashion icon and digital entrepreneur will represent luxury professional hair-styling tool brand ghd (good hair day) as an International Brand Ambassador in what’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting years yet for the cult beauty brand. A long-term fan and user of ghd, Chiara has partnered with ghd on successful social media campaigns for 2 years, however her new and elevated position, see’s Chiara as the face of the new global advertising campaigns. This is the first time ghd - a global leader in premium professional hair-styling tools - has announced a digital star as an International Brand Ambassador. The announcement coincides with the 20th anniversary of the British brand which is celebrating 20 years of good hair days throughout 2021. Chiara Ferragni says: “It’s so much more than an accessory – hair inspires my look and completes it. Using ghd tools gives me confidence and creativity with my hair without using extreme heat.” 72
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“ghd unplugged is my new best companion. I am free to style my hair whenever I want, it means I can always have a good hair day.” Chiara Ferragni
“We are dedicated to developing pioneering technologies and creating the best-inclass products that tackle consumer and professional stylist needs. Our ghd R&D team have developed the latest battery and heat styling technology which allows us to launch unplugged, A portable cordless styler that delivers the superior performance our tools are known and trusted for, giving consumers and stylists the flexibility to style anywhere, anytime.” Ludovic Dellazzeri, Managing Director - ghd ANZ
“We are thrilled to welcome Chiara Ferragni as ghd International Brand Ambassador during our 20th anniversary year - she is the ultimate global fashion trendsetter who speaks directly to the social media generation and our digital savvy consumers.” said Jeroen Temmerman, ghd CEO. “With Chiara’s unparalleled global digital appeal and ghd leading technology, we are confident this new partnership, and impending new product launch, will help ghd to deliver more good hair days around the world.” Montse Passolas, ghd CMO, says; “Chiara Ferragni is an entrepreneur with an undeniable spirit, attitude and unique sense of style – she perfectly embodies the essence and energy of ghd. Chiara was a natural choice for ghd to become the first digital star announced as International Brand Ambassador. Chiara loves the brand and genuinely uses it to style her hair, so that it is always flawless and in great condition. She relies on ghd for safer for hair heat styling and long-lasting sleek results.”
NO STRINGS ATTACHED In another exciting announcement, ghd have also launched their first ever compact and cordless styler ghd unplugged, featuring none other than Chiara Ferregni as the face of the global campaign. It’s light, portable and powerful, allowing you to touch-up your style on the go, without compromising on performance. Featuring a speedy 45 second heat up time and up to 20-minutes of continuous styling, ghd unplugged delivers 65% more shine with no strings attached; this is the touch-up tool to transform lives. Conveniently can be charged at home or on the go using the USB-C charging cable, then safely slip the styler into your handbag immediately after use with the heat-resistant carry case. A great retail item for ALL salons! Containing Hybrid Co-lithium technology, featuring a combination of long-life lithium-ion batteries with ghd advanced dual-zone technology, guarantees the optimum styling temperature of 185°C across both plates, to deliver the superior performance that ghd is renowned for, in a handbag sized tool.
LOVED BY PROFESSIONALS
Whether stepping out of a car, a plane or a hotel, Chiara always looks flawless from head to toe and relies on ghd unplugged for touching up and perfecting her hair on the go. Manuele Mameli, Chiara Ferragni’s Hair Stylist & Glam Artist says, “ghd unplugged offers a new level of flexibility and creativity for styling Chiara’s hair. Our working days are always so busy but now I can finally style Chiara’s hair on the go, no matter where we are and with guaranteed ghd performance. Whether it’s styling touch ups at a photo shoot or a quick style transformation in the back of a taxi during long days at fashion week, unplugged is my new sleek styling essential.”
Available in Black and White
www.ghdhair.com/au Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
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DIMENSION IN LIGHTENING
A WHOLE NEW
Since 1948, Goldwell has been known for breakthrough innovations in the salon industry and continuing this legacy are proud to introduce a whole new dimension of lightening opportunities for professional Stylists – LightDimensions.
This new family of products is characterized by Goldwell’s advanced technology with the popular SilkLift range now upgraded to include powerful lifting performance of up to 9 levels and the most flexible free-hand solutions to create any shade, any technique with any level of lift. The LightDimensions product range with integrated BondPro+ Technology is perfectly matched for individual customization. Choose from the SilkLift high performance lighteners with AntiYellow-System for the clearest and most even results, and the Brightener, for the perfect finish. SILKLIFT – The best hair condition after a lightening service, compared to leading competitors, for ultra shiny, soft and smooth 74
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hair. Mix and match between four different lightening powders and customize the consistency by simply adding the Goldwell System Thickener. - SILKLIFT STRONG – up to 9 levels of lift - SILKLIFT ZERO AMMONIA – up to 6 levels of lift - SILKLIFT CONTROL PEARL – lift and tone control with up to 7 levels of lift - SILKLIFT CONTROL ASH - lift and tone control with up to 7 levels of lift - SILKLIFT 2in1 SERUM – for intensive care and to stabilize the counteracting pigments in SilkLift Control - SILKLIFT CONDITIONING CREME DEVELOPER – available in 3%, 6% or 9%.
SUPERIOR TECHNOLOGY & PERFORMANCE IN AN ENTIRELY NEW LIGHTENING INITIATIVE
NEW BRIGHTENER - The perfect finish for your
lightening results with a controlled amount of lift of up to 1,5 levels. Soften contrasts for the most naturally blended looks or boost your lightening results with the new customizable Power Toning service with @Pure Pigments. - BRIGHTENER NATURAL - For levels 7-9 - BRIGHTENER SILVER - For levels 5-7 In addition, LightDimensions is the ultimate representation of Goldwell’s commitment to sustainability. The new SilkLift packaging has been transformed from a traditional box, to a FSC certified foldable pouch made of 80% less plastic, reducing the waste volume by 85%. All folding boxes are produced under climate neutral conditions. To showcase this new dimension in colour, Goldwell Global Ambassador Angelo Seminara, has created a new beautiful collection titled “INTIMATE.” Inspired by the solitude and inner self-reflection of the past year, Angelo visualised the essence of the modern woman, reflecting the quiet confidence that is only achieved from innate self-knowledge and the acceptance of one’s self. The Intimate collection is a series of mirror-image looks that highlight women feeling completely at ease with themselves, wearing their hair beautifully and confidently. “Although this past year allowed me to physically slow down and take a step back, it also allowed my inner creativity to flourish - and Goldwell LightDimensions met my imagination every step of the way,” said Seminara. “The new, advanced formulas are infused with unsurpassed technologies that helped me deliver stunning, even results in every look within the Intimate collection.”
HAIR: Angelo Seminara @seminaraangelo HAIR COLOUR: Angelo Seminara and Takashi Kurokawa PHOTOGRAPHER: John-Paul Pietrus @johnpaulpietrus STYLIST: Niccolo Torelli @niiccotorelli MAKE-UP: Daniel Kolaric @danielkolaricmakeup MANICURIST: Cherrie Snow @cherriesnow PRODUCT: LightDimensions by Goldwell – a system which combines to lighten hair while maintaining a healthy-hair feel.
With a variety of texture, colors and lengths, Seminara’s latest collection features touchable hair that women can recognize honestly and intimately, reflecting their true, innermost selves. The ready-to-wear colors, that are also easily read by the eye, were created with Goldwell, from brunette with copper tones, to ultra-light blonde with silvery lights.
SIP & STYLE CO.
Sip & Style Co is an Australian first hair and beauty interactive masterclass event that connects industry hair and beauty professionals to people who want to learn how to style their hair or do their makeup in a fun and interactive group setting.
Similar to the well-known concept of a paint and sip class, instead of learning how to paint, participants can learn how to style their hair or do their makeup whilst enjoying bottomless sparkling wine.
“We have been very grateful for the opportunities that have come our way and we look forward to broadening Sip & Style Co. to target not only consumers but industry professionals with the launch of PRO Sip & Style Co.”
The innovative brainchild comes from Ari Ahearne and Jake Doran who, collectively, have zero hair or makeup experience but a passion for fun and adventure, launching Sip & Style Co in March of this year in Tasmania.
Pro Sip & Style Co aims to provide industry professionals a platform to upskill by providing online tutorials with established and well-known hairstylists and makeup artists and will include the launch of an interactive professional face-to-face masterclass with Ben O’Brien in late August in Hobart, TAS.
Each class focuses on a specific look, for example, Textured Waves. The masterclass operates in a phase style demonstration where the participants watch a professional hairstylist create the look in steps and then the participants recreate the steps on their hair with help from the stylist along the way. “We provide all participants with everything they need to create the look from professional tools and high-quality products as well as bottomless sparkling Tasmanian wine!”, says Ari. “We have been incredibly lucky to be working with the biggest brands in hair currently, Dyson and Milkshake, having landed the partnerships in the first month from launching. It has so far been an incredible journey having sold out of all of our hair masterclasses with Ben O’Brien as well as selling out most of our makeup masterclasses as well.” Ari explains. Launching a business in an unfamiliar area such as the hair and beauty industry in the thick of COVID-19 has presented challenges for Ari and Jake, however, through community and industry support they have been able to navigate this to a successful business.
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“Since launching in March we have had the amazing opportunity to partner with Milk_shake Hair.” Says Ari. “They have an incredible styling range which has been extremely popular in our masterclasses as well as in our online shop. And in addition to Milk_shake we have collaborated with Dyson Hair to fit out our masterclasses with Dyson Corrale hair straighteners. The cordless technology makes the hair tools very user-friendly especially to those learning for the first time how to curl their hair with a straightener. It is incredibly important to us that we align with highquality brands as we aim to provide all participants with a fun and luxurious experience.” The Sip and Style Co. hair and beauty master classes host recognised educators who are renowned for their craft, currently with Ben O’Brien, a multiaward-winning hairstylist who also plays a key role in Milk_shake’s education team. Ben is also supported by another fantastic hairstylist Sam Treloar in his masterclasses. For makeup the team are currently working with published makeup artist Sophie McDermott who specialises in editorial and bridal makeup. www.sipandstyleco.com
9 minutes
processes in just
9 minutes permanent colour The first permanent 9 minute colour on the market A worldwide innovation featuring hyper-fermented daisy extract Allowing maximum grey coverage with 36 intermixable shades Service more colour clients in the same amount of time without compromising on results To stock the collection in your salon, contact your local milk_shake distributor on; QLD + NSW: Conceptual Brands _ 1300 110 032 VIC: K Two & Co _ 0409 596 771 WA: Ultimate Salon Supplies _ 08 9204 2200 SA: Beautopia Hair & Beauty _ 1800 635 545 TAS: AJHS _ 0409 014 070
@milkshakehair_aus facebook.com/Milk-shake-Australia
OUTRAGEOUSLY
PUNK!
Punky Colour was born in London, out of the legendary counterculture punk scene that bred generations of forwardthinking creatives with a rock ‘n’ roll soul. While rainbow-hued hair has recently become more mainstream than ever, Punky remains true to its roots (pun intended!), focusing on outrageous, overthe-top colour made with only the highest quality ingredients, and proudly always vegan and cruelty-free.
Punky makes semi-permanent, and demipermanent hair colours that are versatile and easy to use. Depending on whether you want an immediate, long-lasting transformation or a deposit-style product you can control, including a vegan keratin protein, these colours are friendly to your scalp. you get all from Punky and more. With its strong loyal following in the U.S. market, Punky Colour products are also in thousands of countries across the world. Punky continually work to bring you the brightest, boldest, most amped-up products and excellent customer service around. Jessica Miles from The Pavillion loves Punky Colour. “We have only had the Punky Colour range in our salon a few short months., but we have already fallen in love with it. It has given us a brand-new way of achieving bright customisable colours for our clients. The variety of shades is so much fun. My favourites would have to be Flamingo Pink, Purple & the Apple Green. The option of using the pastel shade adjustor in with the colour makes it so much easier to play with tone and vibrancy,” says Jessica. “ I have used the Punky colours to create soft pops of colour on my clients for some temporary added fun and I have added bold tones all over for my more adventurous clients and everything in between. The vibrancy and longevity of the colours is out of this world compared to other brands I have used. Weeks after the application it is still vibrant and not wishy washy! The feedback from clients has also been so positive. They are raving about the condition of their hair and the colour weeks after using the product. We cannot wait to see what other fun colours we can create with the Punky range here at The Pavillion” 78
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VIBRANT COLOR: Punky Semi-Permanent Conditioning Hair Colour Creme comes with colour-enhancing Vegan Keratin complex for brighter, better colour that lasts longer! NO BLEACH? NO PROBLEM: No peroxide required: create a brilliant highlight effect on darker hair. LONGER LASTING: A single application can last over 35 washes. This means you can colour less often and still rock your style! CONDITIONER: Punky Colour semi-permanent hair dye conditions as it transforms. It leaves hair silky soft and healthy-looking. SAFE: Punky Hair Colours are free of PPD’s, paraben, ammonia, and GMO’s. It is vegan and cruelty free, Paraben-free. Punky Colour 3-In-1 colour depositing shampoo and conditioner with keratin amino acids. • Cleanses and Conditions • Refreshes, Adds Colour • Stops Colour Fading • Nourishes, Strengthens, Bonds • Adds Shine, Softens, Controls • Ammonia and PPD Free • Sulphate and Paraben Free And what do other punky creatives love? “What I love most about Punky compared to other brands on the market is how vibrant the colours are whilst always maintaining the integrity of the hair, hence longer lasting colour with much more even fade out. It smells amazing and the consistency of the product is by far my number 1 out of the others I have used.“ Lou Lou’s Hair Room Perth WA
Jessica Miles with her Punky Colour client
Stylist @Pink_nouveau “I’ve tried many different “alternative” hair colours, and these are by far my favourite. They are super long lasting, and super pigmented. You can mix them together to get any combination of colours you could ever dream of. The consistency is lovely to work with, it’s easier to avoid messes with the ticker consistency, and great when you are trying to apply more than one colour. They have such a nice smell to them, and It does absolutely no damage to your hair, and actually conditions it in the process. Absolutely love this product.” Suzi’s Hair Studio www.muimports.com.au
CADIVEU PROFESSIONAL INNOVATES WITH THE #GAMECHANGER SERIES: A COMPLETE IN SALON RECONSTRUCTION AND DAMAGE PREVENTION SYSTEM
NEW
Brasil Cacau Haircare Australia / NZ (03) 9555 1533 | sales@muimports.com.au | www.muimports.com.au | 662 South Rd, Moorabbin Victoria 3189 Australia
NEW
TrueShades Demi Permanent Colour Ammonia & PPD Free Vegan • Avocado & Jojoba Oils
Natural
4.0 Brown
6.0 Dark Blonde
6.01 Dark Natural Ash Blonde
7.01 Natural Ash Blonde
7.0 Blonde
8.0 Light Blonde
9.0 Very Light Blonde
Natural Ash 8.01 Light Natural 9.01 Very Light Ash Blonde Natural Ash Blonde
Intense Ash
Beige
7.11 Intense Ash Blonde
8.11 Light Intense Ash Blonde
9.11 Very Light Intense Ash Blonde
7.13 Beige Blonde
9.13 Very Light Beige Blonde
Pearl Violet Ash
Pearl Violet 8.2 Light Pearl Violet Blonde
9.2 Very Light Pearl Violet Blonde
7.21 Pearl Violet Ash 8.21 Light Pearl 9.21 Very Light Pearl Blonde Violet Ash Blonde Violet Ash Blonde
Ash Brown
Intense Violet 6.22 Dark Intense Violet Blonde
8.22 Light Intense Violet Blonde
European Blonde
5.71 Light Ash Brown
7.71 Brown Ash Blonde
6.66 Lava Red
9.62 Blush
Red 9.72 French Blonde
9.73 Danish Blonde
Copper
Clear 8.44 Copper Flame
Hi Lift Professional Products
9.14 Autumn Blonde
Clear Gloss
hi_lift_professional
(03) 9555 1533 | sales@muimports.com.au | www.muimports.com.au | 662 South Rd, Moorabbin Victoria 3189 Australia
9.71 Very Light Brown Ash Blonde
FORECASTING HAIR FASHION TRENDS WITH
DAN LEPORE PALLADEUM HAIR, SA.
I believe that fashion moving forward is an eclectic mix of our past brought into the world we live and breathe today, allowing us to push the boundaries of our creative minds and create a new path to walk and create in the future.
With that, the hair trends are coming in fast and funky in 2021, with the biggest trend we’re seeing thrown around is a slightly tweaked 90s feel. Whether it be in the form of clothing, to haircuts and colours, there is definitely a 90s vibe. Hair is moving, if not already, on its way to shorter fringes and longer lengths in the back. Disconnected undercuts bringing out that 90s grunge misfit feel. For colour, I see it moving in the direction of heavier panels, raw and brighter blondes, making bold statements, which in the salon is very exciting to create. Utilising our cool and warm muk Hybrid Cream Hair Colour shades together to create honey, vanilla and rusty shaded coppers. Out with the silver and in with statement blondes. Haircuts are also moving to sharp, bold shapes, bringing back that architectural structured edge to haircuts. For colour on these statement haircuts, we are working with
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lots of block colouring with softer free, hand smudge work, to create a seamless finish. This will give you shine lines throughout the hair to give you depth. Deeper chocolates, auburn reds and contrast colours, light to dark, a making a comeback. For styling, it’s ‘business at the front, and party at the back’! Slicker, glossy, flatter front fringes and texture flowing at the back. My go to favourites for this kind of styling is a mash between Kinky muk Curl Leave in Moisturiser and a dab of Kinky muk Curl Amplifier for hold and stretch, when flat brush drying at the front of the head and Fat muk Volumising Spray for texture drying and volume for the back. Finishing off with a good spray of Head muk Dry Shampoo for that gritty, second day textured powdered effect and finishing with Filthy muk Styling Paste for definition where needed. And of course, the muk Style Stick 230-IR for smoothing out when required. Get the look with www.mukhair.com
THE ORIGINAL REDESIGNED STYLING + TEXTURISING + HOLD
LAUNCHING AUGUST 2021 INTERESTED TO KNOW MORE? PH: 1300 768 264 E: INFO@MUKHAIR.COM WWW.MUKHAIR.COM IG @MUKHAIRCARE_GLOBAL
BLOG SPOT. EMBRACING CHANGE CHANGE [ NOUN ] An act or process which something becomes different
By Brodie-Lee Tsiknaris
Change can be one of many things in life and I think we would all agree since the beginning of the pandemic there has been plenty of changes. Some changes can be scary. For many of us the fear of change in business is scary. For staff, the change in a salon can also be scary but what if we embrace changes in our business with gratitude and blessings and we remain open the idea that when change happens it can be magical. You see the pandemic has taught us lots of lessons. But things do happen, Change is inevitable and can happen regularly; we never know what lies around the corner and sadly it often takes pain and suffering to remind us how lucky we are. You see the pandemic brought a lot of media attention to the pain of a business owner and employees, but sadly these things can happen at any time, and happen to businesses every day. The media have just brought light to it because of Covid. Unfortunately, there are many sad stories in life and business. You could become ill suddenly and need months or years off work, you could have a major team member leave, you could have a main staff member with an illness or injured; a fire, a death of a loved one, or pretty much any curve ball thrown at you. I truly hope that none of these ever happen to you, but I believe that it’s not the cards we are dealt in life but how we play them. What we can learn from these situations is that you, as a business owner, should always plan for anything, welcome change and don’t dwell on it. So with that in mind, I would like to share my own recent ‘Learnings.’
Gratitude: How lucky are we to be in Australia compared to our hairdressing friends overseas. What are you grateful for everyday? Find the good in every bad. Everything Is fixable.
Loyalty: Well, without a doubt, when pressure
is evident, you see people’s true colours. The pandemic has certainly shown this and what an incredible way to see the values of those that we do business with, whether it be our teams, clients, or partnering companies. I know for sure I will never forget the acts of kindness of some of my team members and the values of 86
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those we deal with day to day. What a beautiful time to decide who you want on your team and to know that their core values match yours.
Reassess: We should
never ever become complacent. You should understand your business and every cent of it. Never take it for granted, Get up every day and work on it. Whether you work in your business or not, look at it from the outside in. Do you understand your P&L, do you know your numbers? Stock levels? Docket averages? Staff costs? Do you save for a rainy day? Do you put GST and Holidays away in a separate account, so it’s never touched until needed? If at any time things aren’t looking like they are going the way you want them too, take a deep breath and reassess. Write a new business plan. If you don’t know where to start, that’s ok, find someone to help you; a business coach and/or your accountant are a great place to start. Look at every dollar, every service and invest wisely.
Strategy: What is your team strategy? Do
you have a plan B in place if for some reason something happens? Will your team be ok? For me I run my business as Richard Branson once famously said, “Take care of your employees, and they’ll take care of your business”. This is always my priority. Are my team members happy? Do they want to work for me? Do they feel inspired? Do they feel supported? Trust me I don’t always get it right and I am learning every day I also know you can’t please everyone and sometimes you will burn out trying to please the wrong ones but I have also learnt its best to trust your gut and free those
that are taking the energy away from you and your business. There is a famous parable of brick layers. In the parable, a man came upon two bricklayers. He asked both, “How do you like your job?” The first brick layer responded, “It’s terrible. My back aches and my hands are worn raw: they bleed on the mortar. The sun beats down on me all day so that my shoulders burn and blister. All I do is lay brick after brick.“ The man felt deep compassion for the first brick layer. Then the second brick layer responded… “I love my job. I’m building a great cathedral.” Attitude is important my friends, what a wonderful example of the difference it can make to our mental health. But ,in the parable, attitude isn’t the only factor. The main difference highlighted between the two bricklayers is their attitude towards what they do. One responds with the “what” of their occupation, the other responds with the “why”. One sees the task before them and the other sees the purpose behind the task. Find your why, Embrace change and Lead with Heart not with Power and …Kindness always. Brodie xx
BLOG SPOT. EMOTIONAL DUMPING
“Sorry I’m Not Your Emotional Dumping Ground” By Dario Cotroneo
As hairdressers we have a unique connection with clients because we are connecting on several different layers. Through touch, listening and speaking we are creating a very quick bond that most other industry professionals do not deal with. Think about it, a clinical psychologist purely listens and gives advice, there is no physical touch involved. The act to touch another person requires a level of trust and therefore our industry is prone to clients “dumping” and venting onto us because they feel they can trust us, and feel they are in a “safe space”. These days, just asking a client, “How are you?” may bring on a tirade of “dumping”, taking up valuable appointment time. I used to frequently feel frustrated at how much time was being wasted. In the past a large portion of my client connections rotated around clients emotional dumping and venting onto me, it had nothing to do with me, but I would let it happen as I associated it to closeness and connection. I have now learnt techniques to steer clients away from this negative habit, and in turn this helps to protect my own self wellbeing. So, what is emotional dumping? My research says, “Emotional dumping is a toxic form of venting. When you emotionally dump you are unaware of both your own emotional state and the state of the listener. Emotional dumping does not include the consent of the listener”.
Emotional dumping looks like:
• Repeating or reliving an event within a conversation. • Conversation does not seek a solution. • Conversation doesn’t leave an opening for feedback or questioning. • Conversation doesn’t allow for mutual exchange.
There is a big difference between venting and dumping. It’s OK for a client to mildly vent but when they “dump” that’s when we need
to protect our own mental state. Knowing the difference between venting and dumping is a positive start in having clarity in your client relationships. Here are some guidelines for you to differentiate.
Venting
• Feels healthy • Sticks to one topic • Is time-limited • Doesn’t keep repeating the same topic • No blaming • No victimising
Dumping
• Feels toxic • Overwhelms you with many issues • Keeps repeating the same thing • Blames others • In victim mode • Goes on and on • No accountability for their part in the issue • Not open to solutions
How do you keep yourself protected from “Dumpers”? Set emotional boundaries. Decide how much you can give without feeling drained and overwhelmed. Gently remind your client that you love and support them, but you cannot be a therapist for them. Let’s look at how we can set up boundaries around emotional dumping. Here are some tried and tested conversations I use with my clients. “I understand you are hurt right now, and I want to be here for you, however I’ m not qualified to give personal advice, I am not an expert in that field.” Or change the pace of the conversation with;
“I would love to spoil you with a great hair experience to make you feel amazing, so let’s focus on what we can achieve with your hair today.” If someone starts “dumping” on you, it’s fine to excuse yourself and ask for some “quiet time”. Explain to them why you feel this is important within their appointment. I use the following: “I’d love to just concentrate on your (hair) techniques today so I may not be talking much whilst I am creating. I want you to receive the best cut/colour today.” Learning to protect yourself in this way, particularly if you are a sensitive person, is an important form of self-care. After 32 years in hairdressing, I have realised we all have a choice on how we manage our work environment. A great tool to make sure I have a healthy dialogue with clients is to be suggestive about hair the minute they walk into the salon. Don’t forget! It’s important to make sure we are not “dumping” or venting onto our clients. I believe clients are coming in to feel refreshed and inspired. We are getting paid to transform their external appearance and make them feel amazing. The last thing they want is to feel your burdens being placed onto them. It’s a sure way to never see them again. I hope I have shifted your awareness, and that you implement some new techniques that will change your clients mind set if you feel they are “dumping”. It’s important for you to create new boundaries, so you can enjoy and flourish in healthy relationships with clients and colleagues. Love Dario xxx www.dcieducation.com Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
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BLOG SPOT. FABULOUS, 50 AND FEARSOME! By Jenni Tarrant
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” - C.S. Lewis The landscape of Australian hairdressing is changing, and not just as a result of a global pandemic. For many years there have been young superstars with the world at their feet, often backed by salon owners playing a pivotal role in their development and success. Stunning photoshoots, incredible hard work, passion, and energy combine for our industry youth to get recognition through awards, publications, education, and sometimes building their own businesses. These impressive efforts help drive our industry forward and I am amazed at the brilliance of these individuals. Recently, I have noticed an interesting trend: an increasing number of ‘older’ hairdressers are putting themselves in the spotlight and showing their brilliance as business owners, creatives, and educators. It delights me to see this shift. For a very long time our industry has been driven by our youth while the majority of our more senior hairdressers, with a wealth of skills and experience, have not put themselves forward for recognition in the same ways. In many conversations, older stylists have revealed to me that being established in their career can lead to the perception that they are not ‘fresh and new’ enough to compete. The fact is we live longer and the retirement age keeps getting extended. There is no age limit on our willingness and ability to learn and grow. In fact, one of the most attractive features of our industry is the focus on continued education and development. So many hairdressing icons across the world have been labelled as icons for that very reason: they keep reinventing and using their skills and experience to create the ‘new’ - in shoots, education, and business. They are always refining while pushing the boundaries of possibility. So where have the talented people who sit between the youth and these icons been? It’s time for the many, not just the few, to reactivate their possibilities and 88
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transform the perception of ‘new and fresh’ in our hairdressing community. We must embrace our years of professional experience and increase our representation in all aspects of leadership in our industry. The same stylists who believe they are not ‘new enough’ have also expressed how much they would love opportunities to showcase their talents broadly, including with mentoring opportunities. I have been specifically told that if age was not a criteria in some competitions, many would love the opportunity to participate. Recently I was named as a 2021 finalist in the AHIA Creatives category: New Creative Talent of the Year. I can’t express how thrilled I was given that I have been in the industry for 38 years. Since starting my career at 14 years old, having a family, honing my craft, buying a salon, and then being a winner of many business awards, it was time to show my creative skill. I have always loved Avant Garde collections and have shown my passion for art and creativity through this medium. The AHIA Creatives gave me an opportunity to enter a more editorial collection which was new for me.
Some would have wondered why I would enter the New Creative Talent category after so many years. It was because it is a relatively new artistic expression for me. Newcomers are seen as ‘young’, and this is something that we need to change. We need to encourage those who might have walked a different path through their career to expand their opportunities and embrace their expertise. It’s not about ‘young’, it’s about being innovative and fashion forward. . Every creative should have the ability to be seen, to be heard, and to be acknowledged. Let’s take away the irrelevance of age and allow everyone to express their own ‘new’. Beautiful hair artistry should not be restricted by the stylists gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, dress size, number of wrinkles, choice of personal style etc. Look around you and see the trail blazers who still have a burning fire inside. And if you are one of them, your age and your look is irrelevant. You are all you need to put yourself forward and show the world your polished skills and all you have to offer. Jen xxx
BLOG SPOT. ATTRACTING OUR FUTURE SUPERSTARS By Clive Allwright
As I sit in my house during another lockdown in NSW attempting write this this blog. I take a minute to reflect on this past month of June. For those of us located outside the State of Victoria. We were thankfully lucky enough to celebrate all things hair, in person at the AHIA awards at the glamourous Star Casino in Sydney.
By all accounts and seeing Linda’s social stories over the long weekend it was an incredibly huge task bringing the event to life for us all. I read on one of Linda’s posts “This has taken a small village to make this event happen” It was an incredible night for us all, just to be back air kissing while dressed to the nines with our industry peers and future superstars. Especially after the past 18 months of this global turmoil has rocked every single one of us to the core. Thank you to all at Mocha for making it all happen. What was also amazing was listening to the winner’s speeches when accepting their wellearned industry gongs. They all spoke with such passion about how much they love our great industry and what incredible opportunities have unfolded during their glittering careers. So why do we struggle so much to attract young people onto this wonderful world hairdressing? Or even stay long enough to even attempt the smallest level of success? Often being lured back into further education or another career all together. It’s important for us business owners to recognise we need to future proof our businesses. We also understand that we can’t operate without staff and there is a massive global shortage at every skill level. We have all placed job ads on social media platforms, recruitment websites, shop windows, TAFE noticeboards spruiking our success stories. Promising eternal happiness in utopia with such generous renumeration packages, we are surprised that one of the Kardashian’s hasn’t applied yet. Our often-desperate cries contain
messages of great promise, hope and success. That hopefully we can convince a potential school leaver, we are so flexible they can sometimes have the weekend off. I think it’s time we took this show on the road (Once we can get out of lockdown of course and a much smaller version) My business partner at Piloroo.com Kelly explained to me years ago the reason why she got into hairdressing was because of a visit to her school by the young local hairdresser. Showcasing how cool it was to work in a salon, by demonstrating a quick “how to” on a couple of the students. May I take this opportunity to make the shout out and propose the following mud map to assist with our industry’s future recruitment. We now need more than ever a direct voice to our governments explaining our industry has a massive skills crisis. We need to be talking directly to the right people in the Department of Education. We propose a series of roadshows to tour every high school in every state. Showcasing our young talent that we are all so proud of. Just like our AHIA young award winners with all the contestants and finalists, I was fortunate to meet many of them during the awards night and they are awesome! We enlist multiple young “Rising Star” teams in each state. Consisting of YOUNG inspiring barbers, apprentices, salon owners, social media savvy hairstylists to do a combined group 1-hour demo in every high school as a
new careers drive. Concluding with a 30-minute Q&A session with the team. Giving every school leaver access to watch the brilliant hairdressing documentary “The journey to my destination” which highlights all the amazing different career paths you can choose in hairdressing. We need successful young people to be around young people, people they can relate to and inspire to be like. I am offering my services right now to drive the bus and wait in the car park. I witnessed first-hand the passion, the love, the nervous, and all the excitement the contestants experienced that night, thanks to Sally Brooks while I collected her International Hairdresser of the year award. We witnessed people cry and shake with pride and emotion that night. That’s what young adults need to witness and understand why we do what we love. I would love to hear your thoughts and any other ideas on how you think we can solve this problem together? We will need a lot of villages to come together across this great country to make something like this happen. Q: How do we eat an elephant? (metaphorically speaking of course) A: “One bite at a time” However in this case it will have to be one school at a time. Email clive@piloroo.com I would love to hear your thoughts and ideas of how we can future proof our industry and hopefully together we can make some magic happen. Just like a village Fête
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BLOG SPOT. EMBRACE YOUR EXPLORERS By Paul Frasca
Last issue we ‘shopped the loop’ together, exploring what it takes and why it’s important (and super cool!) to make and buy products from recycled materials. I mentioned that Sustainable Salons has introduced a dedicated Innovations team to really get this - and a bunch of other cool sustainability projects - off the ground. Well, I thought it’d be fun to take you on a tour of the brain that’s leading this team. It’s kinda like visiting IKEA - every time you go, you buy something unusual that you think you probably don’t need, but now that you know it exists, life feels a bit harder without it. Everyone, meet Anuj Dhawan, our Product Innovation Manager.
So Anuj, why have an Innovations team?
Innovation asks for a different way of thinking and doing, so by having a dedicated team, you have the freedom to explore and push the boundaries without disrupting day-to-day operations.
Any particular trends in the sustainability sector right now that you’re excited about? I’ve really liked seeing the ‘add your own water’ trend - many cleaning products have started to remove water from their ingredients, reducing the packaging requirements and minimising shipping impact. Kind of makes you wonder why a lot of these products had water as an ingredient in the first place!
One of our core focuses at Sustainable Salons is our closed-loop mission - what kind of things need to be considered when starting the process to make a circular product from collected salon resources? Think of the end at the start. If you’re about to introduce a new product, think of its end of life - can you reduce the amount of packaging in the first place? Is it using the right material? Is it hard to disassemble and process at the end of its life? When we’re deciding what product to make, we’re constantly thinking of it through a customer’s eyes and exploring what products already exist that could be replaced with a closed-loop version. But being just closed-loop isn’t enough - it must also have a good product90
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market fit otherwise you’re just making more stuff.
What makes this space so exciting for the salon industry?
The materials are just so good! They’re mostly monomaterial (only one type of material instead of several materials sandwiched or glued together), and usually made to very high quality. But the reality is, you can achieve this same quality in closed-loop systems and products as well; we want our industry to be self-sufficient when it comes to materials - how cool would that be!
Innovation in sustainability isn’t just about making closed-loop products though, what else can we rethink in order to make lasting change?
It’s all about motivation, ability and trigger. Let’s take single-use cutlery at picnics as an example. The entire experience of using plastic cutlery actually sucks - the knife doesn’t cut, the fork prongs break all the time, and the spoons have sharp edges. So the motivation to not use them should already be there. Go into your kitchen drawer, grab a metal knife, spoon and fork, put a rubber band around them and you have your ability. To design a trigger for yourself, why not make a packing list in the Notes app for picnics? Add cutlery, rug, water bottle, reusable coffee cup and tea towel to the list and bam! - you have your trigger, and you’re on your way to another sustainable action.
How will you and your team be doing this at Sustainable Salons? We’re doubling down on the ‘system’ side of sustainability - one reason salons love becoming a Sustainable Salon is because of how easy we make it. In fact, we make it hard to do the unsustainable thing!
What’s the research showing about how open people are to adopting new habits?
It’s funny thinking about what ‘research’ looks like nowadays - it’s getting harder to capture people’s attention and get them to tell the truth. So instead I look at what people are actually doing rather than what they say they do. What I’m seeing is that people will adopt a new behaviour as long as it aligns with their life values - there will always be someone or something cheaper, but if it doesn’t align with values we believe in, we won’t go for it. So focusing less on the price of something and instead focusing on what a customer values is key to adopting new habits. What’s the key to getting people to choose new innovations? Ease. Of. Use. We’re seeing this everywhere now - the moment an experience or a product is difficult to use, we don’t. What potential is there for the salon industry to be leaders in making sustainability our ‘normal’ way of life? Sustainability was originally a very emotional choice, but it is also becoming the rational choice as well. Take renewable energy - at the beginning, solar power was expensive and reserved for those who both cared about the environment and could afford it. It has now become cheaper than non-renewable energy sources, so it’s become a no-brainer. The FeelGood Industry (as we like to call it) are already pioneers in capturing emotion. We just need to take all that social capital we’ve built up and direct it to the right place - toward doing good and feeling good. If you’re a Sustainable Salon, have the conversation about all the great impact you’re making. If you’re not a Sustainable Salon, have a chat to someone who is, and ask how it’s changed their lives and their business. Keen to join the movement? Find out more at www.sustainablesalons.org!
BLOG SPOT.
IT TAKES A VILLAGE
By Gary Latham
Forgive me if it seems I’m going off the topic of hair for a bit but please bear with me as I think its worth it. As I write this NSW has just gone into lockdown, Delta style. It has been a rough year globally, in Victoria especially Covid has been a real bitch. What makes it interesting is its reaching everyone in some way, like the weather it is something we all have in common. The constant buzz of Covid is in all our lives. When will it end? You would think that’s enough bad stuff for one year and everything else should be good news, but life goes on just like before. Staff are still taking sickies, clients still no showing and seniors are hard to find. It’s more stress on top of the Covid buzz. I’ve seen the extra strain impact on staff, clients and friends. There is a bright side to adversity though and I have seen the best come out in people this year. Two things guaranteed to make a committed team player are knowing they won’t make it on their own and others won’t make it without them. I am always surprised when young staff refuse help in their goals as they want to say they did it all themselves. I got news for them, no one does it on their own. Life is tough enough, take whatever help you can get. It doesn’t stop you working as hard as you can on top of that. There is often more joy in others success than in your own, don’t take that from someone who wants to help you. It is at this point I have to say just how wonderful the hairdressing community is. I
well and truly fell into it by accident. If you had have told a young me and my friends I’d end up in hairdressing we would have laughed you out of town. I’m so glad I did fall into this special place. It’s no secret I’ve been living with Parkinson’s Disease since 2012. Recently I reached the point where the amount of medication I needed to control my symptoms produced too many side effects. My meds were reduced and as a result I experienced more “off’ times. The solution is a Deep Brain Stimulation surgery which stops my tremor and reduces the amount of medication I need. The procedure and recovery despite having top medical cover would leave me needing to find a large chunk of cash. As I will be awake during the operation, I did consider buying a drill and doing it myself! (joking). That’s where the wonderful hairdressing community comes in. Sharon Blain and Elli Julia organised a Gofundme page as suggested by the Neurologist. I did suggest to him it should be called a Gofundhim page. The money was unbelievably raised in 48 hours. Dollars aside the amazing support I received across the Hairdressing community was an amazing tonic and one I will always be indebted to.
What makes this such a special band I asked myself and I think the answer can be found in the last issue of Hair Biz. More precisely in the story regarding families in Hairdressing. As a collective of small businesses, the family is at the heart of hairdressing. Even some of the biggest names like Toni and Guy where a band of brothers and the likes of De Lorenzo and Davines are family businesses. Closer to home my business partner Phil Cordony is a secondgeneration hair entrepreneur. His father Louis Cordony OAM an Italian street sweeper in Paris who took up hairdressing before emmigrating to Australia. Employing his brothers who all Francocised their names to appear French rather then Italian. In true hairdresser style Louis married his apprentice and built a fortysalon business. I know far too many wonderful hair families to name and like many other businesses Jayne and I have always tried to treat Wild Life as a family. Only trouble is you can’t sack family! So, in closing I would like to thank the hairdressing community for all its heartfelt support and for just being you. I owe you one. Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
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THE BUSINESS OF
INFLUENCERS
If there’s one thing we can be certain of in 2021, it’s the burgeoning role of the digital influencer. As brands and businesses continue to adapt to the ‘new normal’ in the continuing wave of COVID-19; the digital space has never been a more important arena to play in. While digital influencers are by no means a new concept and have the power of reaching huge audiences on a global scale; in the world of snap lockdowns, travel restrictions and social distancing, their digital presence and ability to create curated content to targeted audiences makes them even more desirable. It goes without saying that 2020 brought with it a wave of behavioural change, including a 70% increase in social media usage, even further elevating the value of the once humble social media influencer. Gone are the days when A-list celebrities and supermodels are the highest in demand to lend their names and profiles to big global brand campaigns and product launches particularly in the luxury beauty market, as digital influencers are fast becoming brands ambassador of choice. Not only is this shift due to their largescale and global digital reach but also their authentic relationship with their highly engaged and loyal audiences, which can see high conversion rates and huge ROI on the right partnerships. One such brand who has adapted to this shift is ghd. As global leaders in hair-styling tools, the premium brand has long relied on celebrity names including the likes of Katy Perry and Olivia Culpo to represent the brand as International Brand Ambassadors, supporting new product launches, brand news and limitededition collections. In a brand first, ghd recently announced Italian Fashion Icon and Digital Entrepreneur Chiara Ferregni as their International Brand Ambassador – coinciding with the brands 20year anniversary. ghd CEO Jeroen Temmerman is excited about the partnership, particularly on how it will help connect with ghd’s evergrowing digital savvy audience. “Chiara is the ultimate global trendsetter who speaks directly to the social media generation 92
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and our highly digital savvy consumers. With Chiara’s unparalleled global digital appeal and ghd leading technology, we are confident this new partnership will help ghd to deliver more good hair days around the world.” Just a hop, skip and a month after Chiara announced her ghd ambassador role to her following of 24 million, ghd announced the launch of its game changing new innovation ghd unplugged. Unplugged is, the brand’s first ever compact and cordless, on-the-go styler, with none other than Chiara as the face of the new campaign. As a CEO, digital entrepreneur, president of two global businesses and busy mum of two, this huge new product launch has a natural synergy with her on-the-go lifestyle, and who better or more authentic to help launch a product that’s designed to touch-up your hair while on-the-go? One look at her jet-setting life on Instagram will leave you wondering how she survived without it. However contrary to popular opinion; the size and following of the influencer isn’t the be all and end all of their suitability to align with your business. A hot topic at the moment is the macro vs micro influencer debate and which is a better investment. While macro influencers sit at the top of the funnel and can boast upwards of a million followers, their role lies in creating mass awareness thanks to their large and often international reach. They also generate a high earned media value and can help create greater brand visibility.
“CHIARA IS THE ULTIMATE GLOBAL TRENDSETTER WHO SPEAKS DIRECTLY TO THE SOCIAL MEDIA GENERATION”
ghd CEO, Jeroen Temmerman
On the other hand, while their followings may be much smaller, with some coming it at just 1000, micro influencers have an intimate and trusted audience, whose opinions and recommendations are highly trusted among their followers. While they may lack the reach of the macro influencer, for the most part micro influencers have been known to result in higher conversion rates. Whether it’s enlisting the help of an influencer with a local following to draw new leads for your salon or being strategic about aligning your brand with an influencer with a highly targeted audience to tap into a particular demographic, a social media influencer or digital ambassador could be the missing piece of the puzzle, that will help you connect with the right audience and in turn take your business to the next level. www.ghdhair.com/au #ghdunplugged #nostringsattached
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WHY SOCIAL MEDIA SHOULDN’T BE YOUR ONLY MARKETING PLATFORM By Rachel Medlock
Yep, I said it. Social media should not be the only way that you’re promoting your business. Whilst it’s undoubtedly an integral and powerful way of communicating with our existing and dream clients, it’s not a platform that is actually owned by you. The reason I’m sharing this is because I saw so many salons smash the panic button when local and international news was taken off our social media newsfeeds earlier this year. It was a cheeky reminder from Facebook that we, as users of their platform, have no control over the changes they make to the platform. For business owners solely market their biz from it, it was a scary wakeup call. So, do we flip our entire strategy on its head and get off social media? Nope! Business as usual for now my friends! Social media is and will continue to be an absolute powerhouse marketing platform. What we do want to do from hereon, is ensure that social media plays a role in a more diverse marketing strategy that includes both online and offline activities. I’ve chosen some of my favourites to get you started.
Grow your email marketing audience Your email marketing audience is something that you actually own so it’s time to maximise it. If you’re not already attaining email information during your client intake process, this is a great time to change things up. With their permission, you can add your clients to email marketing database to ensure that they stay up to date with your latest promotions, news and offers. Email marketing is also incredibly affordable with platforms like MailChimp offering zero-cost memberships for audiences with under 2,000 contacts and many of your booking platforms offering built-in options.
Is it time for a website glow up? If social media was to disappear tomorrow, where would your dream client go to learn about your business and services? If you haven’t updated how your website looks, operates or sounds, this is a digital marketing power move you should totally make. Now, don’t panic! This doesn’t need to be a complete overhaul of your website. In fact, simple tweaks to a website can significantly improve your customer’s experience. When tinkering with your website, I recommend prioritising a mobile-friendly layout with strong call to actions and an easy booking process. How does your site look on mobile phone or tablet? Remember, our phones are basically mini computers these days so it’s got to look amazing on all platforms. Secondly, I recommend ensuring your imagery and logo is the highest quality available. There’s nothing worse than a beautiful website layout, only to see that the hero banner is blurry, or the logo is cut off. This shifts the customer’s perspective of your 96
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business. First impressions truly do count. Finally, a game changing improvement to your website is overhauling how it sounds. Whether your business has evolved over the years, or you never had a pro write your copy in the first place, the way your website sounds to a potential customer might be completely different to what you’d intended. Invest in a professional copywriter to review your existing website copy and tweak what needs rewriting or refining. From your menu descriptions to your businesses story, every word on your website should have the intention of creating an emotional connection with your dream customer and support getting them offline and in your chair.
It’s time to get blogging If you’re not already blogging, this is an incredible space for you to take all the amazing knowledge from inside your brain and start sharing it with your audience. Engaging, well-written and packed with quality insights about your products, services and even the latest hair trends, blog posts allow you to be consistently adding extra value to your website and also set you up with a tonne of bonus content for your other platforms. Think email marketing features, downloadable client education resources and even done-for-you social media captions! Blog writing is the gateway to recycling content across all of your digital marketing platforms, saving you a tonne of time in the long run!
Up your review game It’s a no brainer that your clients are having a cheeky stalk of your business online before committing to an appointment. It’s what we do as modernday consumers! If Facebook or Instagram weren’t around anymore, how would these potential customers find reviews or social proof about your biz? The answer is Google and your website. For many of us, we’ve put a lot of time and energy into boosting our Facebook reviews and star-rating but now, I want you to include Google in the mix too. Consider tweaking your review process (likely a text or email) to include a link to BOTH Facebook and Google so all those adoring fans can share their experience on both platforms. For them, it can be as simple as a copy and paste! Building up your Google reviews assists potential
clients choose you over competitors. By boosting the overall star-rating, your business is going to be shown at the pointy end of the list as one of the highest rated businesses for their particular search. To nurture that customer acquisition experience even more, I encourage you to reply to all reviews, both glowing and not so glowing, to humanise your brand and showcase your exceptional customer service. Even those reviews that aren’t the 5-star rating you’d hoped for, responding and showing up tells a potential customer so much more about your business than ignoring it entirely. Whilst you’re upping your review game, take a moment to share some of your favourite reviews to your website as a proud feature on your homepage. That way, regardless of how the client is finding you online, they can feel confident and excited to book with you.
Taking things offline Don’t forget about the offline world! Customers have the ability to connect with your business at all times, not just when they pick up a phone or laptop. From the moment your customer walks through your door, you have the opportunity to engage them in your referral programs, loyalty offers and get them signing up to your email marketing lists. Consider where your customer is going when they’re not visiting your business and how they can learn about your services. This could include flyers or brochures at your local gym, a special offer for bootcamp members, a flyer on your local day-care news board or even a special offer for clients of a local skin clinic (and vice versa). Whilst many of our clients will search for us before they book us, there’s nothing like speeding up that process with valueadding information that they can physically touch and read. Tech giants will forever keep us on our toes and it’s up to us to ensure that when they flick those switches, our marketing strategy doesn’t come crashing down. Embrace your social media audience, keep producing incredible content but make sure that once they log out, they can still engage with your brand. Let’s make our friendship #official. Connect with do you even social? on Facebook and Instagram via @doyouevensocaial.
DEALING WITH A COPYCATTER?
HERE’S WHERE TO CHANNEL YOUR ENERGY…WHILST KEEPIN’ IT CLASSY! By Sarah Garner
Let’s be real. Copycatter’s suck. When you’ve put so much time, energy, expertise and let’s face it, money, into your brand, it can be so incredibly frustrating for someone to make a rip-off of it in minutes.
When someone makes a copy of your brand, or imitates part of it, it says a lot about both parties. For you, it means you’ve got something worth copying so, bravo to that. For the copycatter, it highlights that they’re so out of touch with their own brand that they need to focus on their competitors instead. It also means they lack their own creative confidence, experience, or support team to execute something original.
When you work that hard to develop such strong brand loyalty, it takes more than a cheeky copycatter to have your customers jump ship. You must remind yourself that a brand is so much more than its visual identity. It’s also the way it sounds, the way it speaks to the customer and ultimately, the way it makes them feel every time they engage with you.
Now, this isn’t to make you feel sorry for the copycatter or to make excuses for them, but it helps you to understand that sometimes, copycatter’s aren’t coming from a place of malice but rather a total fan girl [or guy] moment. To them, imitation is much easier than invention, especially when they have what they feel is the total end goal staring right back at them in your brand.
Sometimes a copycatting incident can ignite the fire from within to finally refresh your brand or make those tweaks you’ve been considering for a while. Now, we don’t mean completely overhaul your entire brand but consider opportunities to breathe fresh air into your brand and add a little somethin’ somethin’ that the copycat doesn’t have.
We thought we’d leave out the tricky business that can happen during these scenarios [you know, the ones that require less flare pants and more briefcases which totally isn’t our jam] and focus on some ways you can positively channel your energy into your own brand, purpose and customers.
Copying doesn’t equal brand loyalty
Someone can snag a colour scheme, font and hey, even a tagline but you know what they can’t whip up on Canva? Your brand loyalty. The powerful blend of all the wonderful things that make people choose you time and time again. When you’re faced with a copycatting situation, focus on your customers. We can spend so much time and energy worrying about what our competition is doing that we forget that we’ve still got an abundance of loyal customers that are likely none the wiser. Focusing too much on what others are doing is what drove the copycatter in the first place so don’t put your energy in that same basket. This is the ultimate, you do you, moment! 98
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Are there opportunities for a brand refresh?
We think a great place to start is a Brand Audit. A Brand Audit gives you the space to reflect on your brand as a whole and ask yourself the tough questions, especially if you’ve been around for a few years at this point. Has your overall goal changed direction during the evolution of your business? Are you still clearly and engagingly connecting with your dream client? Are your brand touchpoints consistent and communicating that message effectively? To help you get your audit on, we’ve written a whole blog on our DIY Brand Audit that you can check out right here (www.digitalbloom.com.au/shop)
another business may visually identify like you, they don’t have that heart, soul, and purpose to back it up. Whilst you should challenge and rise above copycats, don’t allow them to get inside your head and mess around with your purpose. That’s yours to own, grow and evolve as your business does. Hey, this might even be the time you really lean into your purpose and create something completely new and exciting with it! Let’s be real. Copycatter’s suck. When you’ve put so much time, energy, expertise and let’s face it, money, into your brand, it can be so incredibly frustrating for someone to make a rip-off of it in minutes. Copycatter’s come and go but those brands that are deeply linked to their customers, their purpose and their evolution are the ones that will always stand out from the crowd. As old man Suess once said, no one is youer and you.
Remember your purpose
Think of it like this. When a brand copies another brand, they might act like they can walk the walk but when we get down to the nitty gritty, they cannot talk the talk. Just like your brand loyalty, a copycatter cannot take away your purpose. Your WHY drives everything within your business, with every touchpoint leading back to that purpose. People gravitate towards authenticity so whilst
Sarah Garner is the Founder and Creative Director of Digital Bloom, an industry-specific 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
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STACKING THE ODDS By Lisa Conway, The Zing Project
“I can’t find Staff”, that’s a statement I hear way more than I’d like to. The truth is salon owners are faced with a severe shortage of both qualified and partially qualified team members and it’s a nation-wide challenge. My belief is that this skill shortage is not going away or at least not anytime soon. The little overseas talent we did attract has also dried up, thanks to covid19, so we are all fishing in the same shallow pond. Some facts. The number of students entering in and graduating from full-time colleges has all but dried up, plus most of us complained about their ability anyway. An industry heavily weighted with females in the reproductive years means that as fast as we qualify them, we lose them. A large percentage of them don’t even return from baby number one. The other challenge is that many hairdressers don’t have the drive or business knowledge, so working as a sole operator from a room in the family home is a choice many make when they have kids, as opposed to being an operator of a twelve-chair salon complete with 100
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a receptionist. Highschool students are encouraged to stay at school, to continue right through to university, even though when you ask “what do you want to do?”, they have no clue. Taking up a trade is out of favour in our current school system and has been for some 15 years. When students stay in school, this lowers the nation’s unemployment stats and that works in the governments favour. University also means everyone has a HEX bill to pay off, another plus for the government. Kids stay in school to have “year 12 to fall back on” like it’s a soft landing, I’d like to ask “what are we falling back from? Last but no means least, Technology is a path that didn’t exist 30 years ago. So, with all this stacked against us and an education system that is failing us as a trade, what can you do?
We must flip our thinking and agree that what used to work doesn’t anymore. You will be looking at playing a big part in the training of your own hairdressers with the next generation. The first step is to stop saying the word Staff. It’s a very harsh word and bleating out the bleeding obvious “ I can’t find staff “ , just doesn’t change a single thing. Think of it like his. You don’t go around saying “I can’t find a lover” why? Because that implies that perhaps nobody wants you, or you are simply not putting your back into it. That’s how I think when I hear “I can’t find staff” ask yourself this, what am I doing to stand out, to attract people to me? Some even go as far as to ask around and gather a pile of evidence that they are not the only one, another poor use of your time. I get that it’s a shit climate, I really do, and I also get that there is more you can be doing to start a chain of team coming up the ranks, in particular your ranks. Forget about what the
others are doing work out how you are going to solve this one. I think we as an industry, must come up with a different approach. Uber did it. Air bnb did it, so why can’t we? I bet when they proposed the idea at first, they would have been told “don’t be ridiculous!”. In the meantime, the answer is to train our own. Train and graduate them in single tasks. Let me explain. Train a person 100% of your time to apply your tints. Graduate them and then train them to do your blow waves 100% of the time graduate them and so on. The one person one client relationship is wrought with challenges, it always was and it’s more so in this current skill shortage climate. Do the surgeons work and have great support for the less skilled work? Jamie Oliver still cooks with onions although I bet he stopped chopping them long ago. The other option is to find Salon assistants that stay in that role and don’t ever become a hairdresser. A front of house that is only ever a receptionist, not your junior stylist doing part hair, part front desk. Once you get help at the desk you won’t ever go back and it means you can focus more on team training. Pillaroo based in Sydney, trains salon assistant’s and hires them to salons at short notice. It’s a brilliant way to solving the skill shortage. Although I have heard that the odd salon owner doesn’t want to pay the $26 an hour for an assistant, when they can pay $30 to a senior!! There is either a value disconnect here or just no pleasing some. The only thing worse than training team members that leave is not training them and they stay. I am not surprised at people’s disappointment when a team member leaves, I agree it is disappointing. Although I am surprised that it is taken so personally. Often it has nothing to do with you, and everything to do with them. The choices people make deserve respect; the changing of plans is all part of the age group we are predominately working with. If you add in that we are an extremely creative lot, then it is understandable. It is what it is. Gone are the days of one person one career. People today readily change jobs, where they live, who they live with. It is just the norm and we need to accept it. I lost one to the police force, another to become a school teacher, another a nurse and another an aged care worker and every one of them were or showed great potential as a hairdresser. I lost others to overseas travel. I had one go to lunch and never return, I am still waiting. It wasn’t until I realised, she took her handbag and jacket that I thought, she’s not coming back. So, I did what anyone would do and soldiered on to do her workload as well as mine for the rest of that day. Team members are like buses, there will always be another. Find one, train one, keep one isn’t realistic. I think you will agree with me on that.
I think it’s more like this - Find three, train three, lose two and keep one then repeat the process. Maybe the answer is to spend a lot more time documenting/filming your interview process, your training process, your induction process. Put together a kick arse manual full of video content. Everything you want them to know about your business. Do the work now and get the ongoing rewards. Ask yourself this - How can I best train this next person and document that whole process to reduce the workload moving forward? What steps do I repeat that I can document reducing my future work, who else can support me on this? Over 12 years ago now I had myself on video, long before the I phone was so user friendly and I packed all of what I wanted to say in a ten minute You Tube. This message was to explain what I was looking for in a team member. What I was prepared to put in as the owner of the business, my commitment and I outlined the process that guaranteed I would have them succeed if they were passionate and committed. I would sit them down and show them this while I got on with other tasks. I could tell a lot by their body language while they watched it. It meant that everyone got the same level of excitement and energy from me and the exact same message. Let’s be honest it’s a challenge to have the same level of enthusiasm for each interview. I bet you are like me and have even had the odd no show. It is so disheartening when that happens. I fixed that problem with a ‘I am not going to let you down; my time and your time are both precious and I will show you respect by cancelling our meeting if for some reason I cannot attend. I am expecting the same from you.’ I learnt that the firmer and clearer I was the better the respect I got. Interesting that. I am not saying it’s easy, however what I am saying is we need to change our thinking from a statement that starts with “ I can’t” to one starting with “ I’m going to”. At The ZING Project we have the privilege of working with salons from every corner of the country. City, rural and it fascinates me that it’s
not a location that attracts a team member, it’s not a salon fit out that attracts a team and it isn’t a brand of tint that attracts a team. It’s the attitude of the salon owner. That energy of being a relentless problem solver, the core mindset of a true entrepreneur. There is a skill shortage I agree, work tirelessly on that problem and you will succeed. Time Team and Money in that order. I say it over and over again. You MUST spend TIME with your TEAM and when you do the MONEY shows up. Some of you spend far too many hours working on the salon floor and not nearly enough time to develop your team. The sole job of a leader is to create leaders. I hear you when you say “I love working on the floor. Get that balance wrong and I can guarantee that you will always have a team shortage problem. Part of the problem is when things go pear shaped, you are quick to get back on the tools. Why? Mostly because it’s easy, it’s in the comfort zone, you can do with your eyes shut. You must be prepared to put the time in to other areas of your business, get out of your comfort zone, because that’s where magic is born. To explore the truth behind the biggest challenge of all, a team member shortage. Become the lighthouse that stands out from all the other salons. Like the lighthouse, attract the very few ships there are to sail directly to your business. Any port in a storm isn’t a good strategy. Someone has to be solving the skill shortage problem, so my question is, if not you then who? There is a brilliant book that is in audio version too called “Making money is killing your business”, author Chuck Blakeman. Well worth the read/listen. I am always available to chat further. Only too happy to help you. You can do it! For more salon team wisdom, email me at lisa@zingcoach.com.au, visit my website, find my video tips on YouTube or read my latest book Your Salon Retail: the no-nonsense, nohype guide to kick-arse retail in your salon business. www.thezingproject.com.au Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
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WHAT IS YOUR JOB? By David Watts
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When I talk to salon owners, a question I regularly ask is, what is your job? Unfortunately, the answer I often hear is - I’m a hairdresser. It triggers me, as it is a dangerous response for those who own a salon. You are probably thinking, what is he on about? Well put simply, how you see yourself in your business has a direct effect on how your salon operates. It will guide your decision-making process, it will skew your mindset, it will set you up for success or failure. If you have not made the switch psychologically, it is an uphill battle to manage this life. It’s a new financial year and it’s the perfect time to make a resolution, one where you redefine what your role is in your business, it’s time to shout in the street that you are a BUSINESS OWNER! Yes, get excited about the fact that you own a business, in an industry you love, you are in control of your own story. The most successful salon owners are working on sales and marketing, accounting and bookkeeping, leadership and operations, strategy and vision, growth and scale, profit and loss; they are doing this as these things are important to the success of their salon. This does not stop their salons from creating amazing hair, it helps them.
TIP
Schedule time each day for working on your business and do not allow yourself to be distracted from completing the task at hand. This is not what most hairdressers are working on and nor should they be, these are the “joys” that you as a salon owner need to learn to love. I know some of these things are a tad boring, they aren’t the things that you generally enjoy, in fact even thinking about it will make many of you feel uncomfortable, but that is a good thing. In order to be better, we need a level of discomfort, otherwise you are likely to remain stuck where you are now. Most of you are in this industry because you are passionate, you love the vibrancy, the excitement, the ability to transform people’s lives with your creations. Personally, I love owning my salon, having the ability to witness the sheer joy a salon visit gives our clients is a privilege, it’s unique to our world.
TIP
You must find within yourself the same passion for being a business owner that you have for hair.
Obviously just changing how you describe yourself is not a magic wand, you must do the work too (SORRY.) This is where you need to understand what this ownership life is about. You need to learn what makes your business tick behind the scenes. This work is what nobody else sees, it’s the same news I am sure you have heard before, this is you working on your business, not in it. It is knowing your numbers and what they mean, how you can make good business decisions based on the information at hand.
HAVE YOU EMPOWERED YOUR TEAM TO SOLVE PROBLEMS? DO YOU LEAD THEM WITH A CLEAR VISION OR MANAGE THEM WITH A BIG STICK? TIP
Do not be afraid to ask for help, you don’t know what you don’t know. If you are looking for a sign to tell you how you may be going as an owner, ask yourself this: Could I take two weeks holiday and know the business will run smoothly and generate the same income? Could that two-week period pass without me having to deal with messages, email or calls? Would I be anxious or relaxed? Can my team run this business without me? Realistically many salon owners can’t be gone for a day let alone two whole weeks, they are suffering emotionally from this burden, it is burning them out and making salon ownership feel like a problem. If this is you, it’s time to make the shift in your identity, it’s time to step up as a business owner.
TIP
Be prepared to make some important changes to reach your overall goal. Do not overthink them. Have you empowered your team to solve problems? Do you lead them with a clear vision or manage them with a big stick? How do they see you in the business?
You deserve the best and owning your business is a great vehicle to get whatever your heart desires, but if you are spending a lot of your time being reactive, putting out fires, solving problems then it’s time to STOP IT! Expectations for your team and accountability from your team members is essential to your success. Be a salon owner not a pushover.
TIP
Always be clear, be honest and authentic, establish boundaries and structure. Start educating yourself about business and start building a network of businesspeople to help you learn more. Spend time with people you may not normally interact with, you will find people love to share their knowledge when asked. Do something CRAZY like joining LinkedIn and messaging other local business owners. Or even CRAZIER go to a local business group meeting and find out in the flesh what people do in their businesses that is working for them. Read a book from an entrepreneur, get a coach, read the business pages in the paper (okay that might be a step too far,) talk to your accountant about improving your business brain.
TIP
Be your beautiful self, don’t think you need to behave a certain way for others. There was a clear motivation for me writing this article, I want to see less stress in our hair community. There are too many owners who are struggling when they don’t need to, there is help available for everyone. The last eighteen months have been bizarre and through all the craziness we have discovered that it is never too late to change anything, including what we do for a job. So the next time somebody asks you what you do - Stop, take a breath, smile and say I am a business owner! David XoX A salon owner and business coach with a diverse background in sales, marketing and operations David is passionate about improving the professionalism of the industry. Contact David via email david@antonhair.com.au or DM on Instagram @davidwattscoach
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I’M THE MANAGER… BUT WHAT’S MY JOB? By Kym Krey
When you’re the owner or manager of a business, it’s a fair call that whatever happens within those four walls is your responsibility, but …. that’s a pretty broad job description that often also leads to a sickening sense of overwhelm. If I’m responsible for e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g and there’s always so much to do, then where on earth do I start? When I never seem to have enough time, there’s always some kind of crisis and I never see the end of my To Do list, how can I manage my time? The trick here is to make sure you’re getting the right things done. The things that will have the most impact on your business and move you closer to where you want to be… and that’s likely going to mean saying ‘No’ or ‘not now’ to things that others want you to do if they’re not also high on your priority list. So what are your key areas of responsibility? For anyone managing a team, your 3 most important areas of focus are the 3 P’s: • People • Processes • Performance Let’s have a closer look at each one:
PEOPLE
This is about making sure you have the right people on your team which means that they share your values, respect and adopt your expectations and are committed to working with you to achieve your business goals. Basically they know where your business ‘bus’ is going and they’re happy to be on board. • They arrive at work on time, appropriately dressed and in a great frame of mind, ready to deliver excellence to each of your guests today • They’re excellent ambassadors for your business, embodying the attitudes, behaviours, and standards that you want to be known for. • They have the knowledge and skills needed to perform each of their required services to a high standard and within your expected time frames.
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What does it take from YOU to get this part right? For your staff to know exactly what you expect from them behaviourally, then you need to have explained this to them.. no ‘It’s just common sense, isn’t it?’ or ‘Shouldn’t they just know?’
through our own perceptions and experiences too. Just because you explained it, doesn’t mean you’re instantly on the same page!) and finally…. gain their commitment to your expectations. Are you going to be able to rely on them to live and breathe these values, every client, every day?
People come from very different backgrounds and family upbringings and what you think is ‘normal’ may be very different to them. If you’re going to be successful as a Manager, you’ll need to get very good at managing people who are quite different to you.
And in order to explain it to them clearly, you’re going to need to take a moment to get clear on what it is that you expect, yourself! How do you want them to conduct themselves in your business? What are your non-negotiables? What are your red flags or ‘not OK here’?
So, if you’re going to expect it from them, you must first explain it thoroughly then check that they’ve understood (we filter information
Now that you’re clearer on People, let’s take a look at processes.
SYSTEMS & PROCESSES
Imagine that you are lucky enough to have 5 of your dream staff members land on your front door, resume in hand. Now that you’ve got the right people, what exactly is it that you want them to do? Careful: This is where we often fall into a monumental pothole! If your answer was something like ‘deliver great service’, ‘have a good work ethic’ or ‘do the right thing’… you’ve just fallen in. You see, these are very vague statements that are guaranteed to have you tearing your hair out and thinking ‘What’s WRONG with staff these days?’ Why? You and I are likely to have different views on what ‘great service’, a ‘good work ethic’ or ‘the right thing’ actually looks like, depending on what we’ve done in the past. You say, ‘I want you to deliver an outstanding customer experience’ and I think ‘I AM delivering an outstanding customer experience! What is she on about?” But if you say to me, “Here’s what an outstanding experience looks like to us. o We greet our clients like this o We seat them like this, not like that o We offer refreshments like this o We answer our telephone like this o We conduct our consultations like this, covering these 5 essential areas because this is what our client needs from us now, and this is what we need our consultation to achieve o We are 100% committed to ensuring every guest gets to feel great every day, not just salon days, so we teach every guest exactly how to manage their hair at home like this, this and this. Get the idea? No assuming they should ‘just know’ because they’ve come from a great salon. Whatever you’re going to EXPECT from them down the track, you must explain CLEARLY at the start, CHECK for their understanding (‘Tell me what you’ve understood that I’ve said’) and gain their COMMITMENT to (‘Will I be able to rely on you to do this with each guest, every day?) Being the highly capable and experienced person that you are, it’s likely that you have the equivalent of an encyclopaedia in your head on all things client service or salon operations. Most of the people you will manage/employ will not, and they can’t read your mind, so your systems and processes need to be clear enough that someone with a far lower level of experience can follow them to achieve a very high standard consistently.
What does it take from YOU to get this part right? GET-IT-OUT-OF-YOUR-HEAD! (and into a format they can learn from- written, video etc) Think McDonald’s: Systems so clear a 16 year-old
can almost run a multimillion dollar business. Then, not only will you have something clear to refer back to if processes are not followed accurately in the future, you’ll also have a supervaluable resource ready to go when you need to hire and train a new team member in the future. (Or have someone ELSE do part of their induction using your fab new training tools!) So, you’ve now got the right people doing the right things, but our job is not yet done. How do we know they’re following your processes to the right STANDARD? By the results they’re producing! If you do the right things consistently, you’ll get the right results. So if your processes are being followed accurately, this will be evident in the outcomes of those processes, or their performance. So, we’re talking: o Average client $ spend o Retail % of total income o Rebooking % o Retention % etc
PERFORMANCE
These numbers are your scoreboard and they’re telling you the story of exactly what is happening in your business… and what is not. Each of these KPIs is linked to a specific service behaviour… a step along your Client Journey process, so it’s as simple as this number measure that action. If this number is well below where it needs to be, then you know exactly which step to address with that team member. Your numbers are literally saying to you: “Hey! Over here! This is where the problem is!” or “How awesome is THIS result? She’s doing a great job of THAT step!”
What does it take from YOU to get this part right? If performance is important to you, then it needs to be part of your every day routine and part of your daily conversations with your team. If you never TALK about performance, then you probably won’t have any! Do this in a positive way, link each KPI to your exciting and inspiring team vision and your team’s sense of identity- who they want to be for their clients and how they want to be known as a professional- and you’ll be on your way to creating
a culture of performance! o Keep an eye on your scoreboard every day. Know your progress to target, your retail %, average $, rebooking %. Know what you need these numbers to be and catch it quickly when they drop below expected levels. Have the chat, bring it to your employee’s attention and get them back on track asap! o Commit to investing small amounts of time regularly in Your Continual Caching Routinethese are the toolkit of conversations you use to coach your team to success. - Morning huddles & end of day check-ins - Weekly ‘PowerChats’ – how did we go last week? - Monthly review - 3-6 monthly Full Reviews These are literally the price of performance. This is what it takes from you to get the results you need. They are what I call the ‘Big Rocks’- which means they go into the appointment schedule well in advance, before clients, before reps, before anything else can get in the way…. and don’t take them out! Tough love alert: If you’re telling yourself you don’t have time, then you’re also making a conscious choice not to do what it takes. Great staff performance is not going to fall magically in your lap, but it absolutely CAN be your reality if you’re willing to get outside your comfort zone, make a real commitment and become the leader you need to be to get the results you need. As the leader of your business, you are responsible for the behaviour and performance of each person on your team and your results will be a direct reflection of what you’re currently prioritising and what you’re allowing to fall through the cracks. You can completely change the profitability and performance of your business with your focused attention on the 3 key management priorities: PEOPLE PROCESSES PERFORMANCE Want to master how to manage your staff to success or become the leader you know you can be? Kym is your go-to gal! A highly experienced and qualified mentor and business coach with the runs on the board to help you get real results. Get in touch. ww.kymkrey.com.au, kym@kymkrey. com.au or find her on socials. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn…. and you’ll definitely make a lot more money! Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
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THE 6 MOST EXPENSIVE WORDS IN BUSINESS… “WE’VE ALWAYS DONE IT THIS WAY” By Faye Murray
As we say goodbye to the first 6 months of the year and understand what a “different” world we are living in and operating our salon businesses in, it is a good time to review what you currently offer to clients and your team and plan what action you need to take to make necessary and positive changes. Many changes we were forced to make during COVID have proven to be good changes and are here to stay. To embrace and implement change you need to have the time to review and plan. A good question to ask yourself is, “How much time do I devote to business development?” This is not the time used paying the wages or doing stock orders, it is creative and forwardthinking time to look at what is working well and what needs a shakeup. The amount of time you need for this will depend on the size of your business. Two hours a week for a small salon and up to a full day for a larger salon is what I suggest and I guarantee if you use this time wisely it will be a great investment and you will see a positive return. 106
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Ask yourself what is new and different in your salon. What have you changed in the last month? What have you changed in the last year? Your team will become bored and complacent if every day is “same old”. Your clients love change and expect to see new and different. You want your clients to see you as a progressive happening salon. Great place to start is the way your salon looks. What changes can you make in reception, what changes can you make to the inside of your salon? They don’t have to be big changes.
You will be surprised what clients will notice. Pretend you are a client and sit in your salon and look around for opportunities for change Your consultations, in particular your colour services. Can you change and improve the way you do these? When was the last time you did training on this very important subject? Is history being well recorded and referred to on return visits. Are you doing 2nd opinions for “big change” colour services? Are you taking before and after photos? How do you quote price to show the value and time that will be invested in the beautiful new colour?
Your points of difference and the special treats your clients get. What can you change? How you present your tea and coffee and teats? Do you offer free WIFI? Do your share your green footprint? Are you offering buy now pay later options such as Afterpay which are becoming more and more popular? On line bookings are no longer an option, this service is expected. Do you have a good system to support on line bookings with a booking fee to minimise no shows and late cancellations? Marketing. Some salon owners do this so well and some invest very little time and the results show this. You most definitely need quality time to review this. When did you update and change your web site? Your content for social media; is it varied and really engaging with new fresh content and of course beautiful hair that matches your brand. Have you cleaned out your Instagram photos recently or is 2019 still showing?
Introducing change to your team can sometimes be met with resistance. They are comfortable doing it the same way. Learn to package change so that it is seen as exciting and something that clients will value and appreciate. Share with the team the reasons why you are making a change and how you will support them with the change. Remember when you do ask your team to do something different or new, as a manager you will need to check it is being done the way you would like it to be done and then continue to follow up to see it is maintained. It takes 21 days to form new habits and as the owner or manager remember repetition, repetition, repetition. Positive forward-thinking people embrace change, negative attitudes to change usually come from negative people and the danger
of this negativity is that it is contagious. Be a positive manager and look at what you can change to help grow your business and make it more interesting and exciting for everyone. Don’t be an example of those six expensive words. Faye Murray, from Your Coach, is a highly respected business coach and speaker. In 2021 she introduced two new Zoom education programmes which have been highly successful. Reception Realities (1 x 1 hour session) and Every Team Needs a Great Leader. (6 x one hour management training sessions). These are offered to coaching clients and general salons and delivered specifically to each salon or individual. Contact Faye 0409 342 653 faye@yourcoach.net.au
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y a W s e l c The Cir
FINANCIALS AND KPI’S By Sharlene Lee
Let’s talk about money. I love money. Love it. There is so much shame around money and people who want it and enjoy it are seen as being greedy, but I don’t see it that way at all. Especially for women, we are taught to be quiet about money, to hide what we earn while men are taught the opposite. There is nothing I love more than seeing female salon owners being loud and proud about it. Other than my family, money is my biggest motivator. The more I make, the more successful my salon is and the more people I can start on their own hair journey, so it’s a win win. Circles is a highly profitable and sustainable business. The reasons for overall financial success can be tricky to analyse as it comes from so many smaller elements all working together seamlessly, but if we had to break it down to the simplest forms let’s look at the numbers around Total, Retail and Colour Sales, Wages, Rent, Outsourcing and Diversifying. Then let’s dive into KPI’s.
People don’t talk about this much but I’m here to. Over 2020 our Subiaco salon smashed it and increased 34.2% while Fitz came in just under 24.3% increase on the previous year following steady increases YOY. A lot of this can be attributed to a strong foundation from which were able to build on new client acquisition, of which we averaged up to 65-70 new clients per week, and strong client retention. We also have noted the importance of online bookings for securing both new clients as well as retention with a 22% increase. The power of automation and the way this frees you up to work on the other elements of your salon will also help drive the $$$ which I discussed last column and will keep banging on about forever!
salons. The defining factor in your retail sales will always be your staff’s confidence in closing the sale as although we love our products, the actual product isn’t the driving factor, the staff endorsement is. We focus heavily on sales strategy and personal development and I work hard to be the motivator for the girls to smash their own targets to ensure our staff have the guts to up their retail average from 0-1 products to 2+ per sale. We also set monthly challenges to get the team motivated and to create a sense of camaraderie and support rather than just pitting them against one another. We also rely on sales data from each of our business partners to check how we are tracking nationally and to identify areas on which we can improve.
COLOUR SALES
WAGES
TOTAL SALES
Our colour sales had a 15% increase. The single biggest factor which will drive your colour sales is staff experience and education. The more confident your team are with their colour skills, the more colour services you are able to book, and the more consultations will lead to both one off and ongoing colour work. A bad colour experience puts client retention in immediate jeopardy so really there is no room for error here. At Circles we work on colour education both in house and externally and highly recommend the comprehensive options L’Oréal Professionnel provide.
RETAIL SALES
Our retail sales reached a 15% increase for Subiaco and even more if we are talking both 108
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At Circles we work with our own model which is well above the standard hourly rate and with weekly reachable commissions. It’s simple- the more money they generate the more money we both get. A lot of salon owners tend to hide what Senior Stylists and Juniors make but I am the opposite. Be open with the team, make sure everyone understands their commissions and if they are achievable, you will get the results. I’m not talking an extra $50 to $100 per pay, I am talking over $1,000. So many salon owners say that “my team isn’t really motivated by $$”- that is complete bullshit and maybe your incentives are too low. Think about it. Am I going to go above and beyond expectations for an extra $50 to 100 per week? Probably NOT.
RENT
One thing that I have done that has had a big impact on my financial success was purchasing the Circles of Subiaco salon. In 2004 my husband and I decided to take a big risk and bought our very first commercial property, an off the plan purchase in a development which took 4 years to build. It was incredibly nervewracking but as luck would have it, it was the start of the mining boom in WA and property prices were going through the roof, so by the time we moved in the value had tripled and this is where Circles of Subiaco is still located. Remember to consider all your options.
OUTSOURCING
I keep my business management team close to ensure we make calculated decisions with regards to growth and expansion, future proofing our brand financially and mediating risk factors. I need to have those people beside me crunching the numbers and managing my ‘dynamic’ personality with a little bit of grounding! You are a hairdresser/creative/ salon owner/business owner/entrepreneur-
you don’t have to also be an accountant. Yes, it costs money, but anyone you outsource should be providing ROI to mitigate that outlay. Put them on a trial for a few months and see how it goes.
DIVERSIFYING
It’s 2021 and things will never be the same. Obviously with COVID we have been forced to pivot, but even prior to that things were changing. The move towards freelancing, the power of social media and influencers and the expectation to constantly innovate. We have finally moved firmly into e-commerce with the launch of our online store and we are also looking outside the realms of what a salon is, moving into the lifestyle space by adding a coffee bar to our Fitzgerald salon. But how do you achieve the above and stay on track? Strong KPI’s- both for your staff but also for the salon. A few tips-
MAKE THEM DETAILED
Saying you want to increase your turnover is not enough, you need a scary number. Put it up on your computer, put it in the break room, show that you are getting closer. We are visual beings, we need to see the goal. If the thought of a yearly projection is too overwhelming, start small. Set your monthly goal, or even a weekly target. Become obsessed with analysing your numbers and if you need help to get your head around it? Get it!! Set real dollar values. Set concrete retail product amounts. A simple ‘increase retail sales’ just isn’t going to cut it.
MAKE THEM ACHIEVABLE
Just because you decide to get serious about your KPI’s, doesn’t mean that miracles are about to happen. Setting unrealistic goals puts way too much pressure on your staff and creates an unpleasant and stressful work environment which will have the opposite effect. One of the things I see people do way too rarely? Ask their staff. Your salon KPI’s shouldn’t be created in a management vacuum and delegated down to staff. They are on the floor, dealing with customers so ask them what they think is achievable. Make them part of the process and then push them a little further, cheer them on and watch them shine.
MAKE THEM RELEVANT
Look at what your salon needs most and work from there, don’t compare yourself to other salons and create a version of their KPIs. Salons may look at our influencer relationships and think that if they had those they would be bringing in more money, when in actual fact they need to focus more on their systems and automation before they are able to deal with more clients. If you are smaller and wanting to increase your financials, look at this time as a way to refine so that you have the capacity to manage growth. Instead of setting a KPI to get a big-name local influencer, focus instead on generating a set number of quality 4.5-5 star reviews for the salon across your social media. The impact of this is going to be much more targeted and will naturally assist with securing local interest and driving new client acquisition whilst getting you to hone in on customer experience.
MAKE THEM FLEXIBLE
Sometimes you won’t reach your KPI’s. It sucks but it is true. Sometimes it will be because of something outside of your control, but often it will be completely within your control and you still don’t push it over the line. Perhaps staff are still a little nervous to translate appointments into retail sales. You got busier than usual and were slack getting back to online enquiries. As a leader you need to be able to pivot and adapt and revisit each KPI and refine that goal again and again until your get the sense of achieving it. Take stock, brainstorm the why’s and then try again.
MAKE THEM FUN
Let’s face it some staff don’t do well if they feel pressured. I like to make sure that our salon KPI’s are very much a team effort and I always incentivise. Remember, ultimately the salon KPI’s and financial success serve YOU. Yes, it means you can pay your staff and give them a nice place to work, but that should be a given. They know that their hard work is contributing to your financial freedom outside the salon and so it is only fair that they see some of that. You can be doing everything ‘right’ but if you have staff who aren’t connecting with clients and an atmosphere that has lost its welcoming feeling, all that back-end work isn’t going to hold up. I hope some of that inspires you to get serious about kicking some financial goals in 2021. Next issue I want to open up my column to all of you! Got a question for me? Email me at sharlene@circlesofsubiaco.com.au and I’ll answer a few next issue. Hair Biz Year 15 Issue 4
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THE TENANT’S DILEMMA By Kelly Cunningham
Most business owners wear many hats when it comes to running a business, sales and marketing, operations and quality control, human resources and employee management, finance and business administration. Is it any wonder that business owners are time poor and need to spread their time across these disciplines or outsource functions to professional service advisers? Similar to finance, accounting and legal services, retail or commercial leasing is a specialist advisory area that involves large sums of money over periods of time that span many years. Unfortunately, most Tenants approach lease negotiations from a position of limited knowledge of the leasing process and the current market conditions. A Landlords core activity is to lease their property to Tenants. They typically employ a professional commercial property agent and have access to the most current market data. The Landlord generally prepares the lease and asserts a level of confidence in the leasing process. They are aware that time poor Tenants will often negotiate from an inferior position in relation to market information and representation. A Tenant may be more inclined to place more emphasis on convenience above negotiating the best rental outcome and lease terms. Invariably, this results in the Tenant falling short of achieving all the potential value and terms that may have been potentially available. We call this the “Tenants Dilemma”.
What can a Tenant do to improve their chances of a great leasing outcome? Create Confidence and Peace of Mind …. A Safe Pair of Hands …
Any successful decision results from having all the relevant information and the experience to create a great outcome. With experience comes the confidence of having undertaken a transaction many times over. An educated level of professional and market knowledge leads to commencing a transaction with a reasonable understanding of what a potential outcome could be, before it has even commenced. Your Leasing Co. provides their clients with a “Safe Pair of Hands” in what can be a time consuming, technical and very expensive part of running a business. The trust our clients place in the service we provide is returned by us providing confidence and peace of mind in the commercial leasing result achieved.
Experience and market knowledge
Industry knowledge and current market experience is the foundation required to creating an optimal lease negotiation with a Landlord or their agent. Your Leasing Co. have negotiated over 1,000 retail and commercial leases over the past 25 years and bring our 110
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technical and industry knowledge to every deal. We have access to market data that is essential to negotiate with Landlords and maximising value for our clients.
Negotiating from a position of confidence
Armed with the same or better market information and experience than the Landlord may have, we are in a powerful position to negotiate the best possible outcome for the Tenant. Negotiation for a large number of people is a confrontational process, which most people tend to try and avoid. A Tenant Representative like Your Leasing Co. undertakes the negotiation process on behalf of their clients and have an informed understanding of what is generally acceptable industry practice in asking for various incentives and the tradeoff in rent payable. Our clients no longer need to have any more uncomfortable or confrontational conversations with their Landlord that could result in residual negativity. We undertake lease negotiations for them from a commercial perspective and with a background of understanding what is within the bounds of generally acceptable commercial leasing practice. Although, this may be stretched from time to time…
Access to off market deals
Using a Tenant representative like Your Leasing Co. saves time by providing more options to choose from. We are in the market every day and have access to off market deals through our professional property network that Tenants acting for themselves don’t get access to. We develop a document that we call a brief. This is a description of all the tenancy requirements and we discretely circulate this across our professional network. Quite often sites become available for lease, but don’t get advertised
because they fit the profile of a Tenants brief and a deal is struck without the property going onto the market. Simultaneously, we also have our own team of people who actively search the market matching up the criteria from our clients brief.
We take care of the boring documentation Your Leasing Co. provides confidence by ensuring that the deal that was agreed, is what is documented in the lease. Knowing what to look for and fully understanding what was agreed at the negotiation stage saves a lot of time, frustration and uncertainty when it comes to reviewing the lease. We are nice guys People like to work with people that they like and share a common goal … We aim to make the whole experience of renewing a lease or finding a new location and negotiating the lease as enjoyable and painless as it possibly can be …. while maximising the value and satisfaction for our clients. Like More Information? Feel free to send us a copy of your lease and call for a chat. You can go to www.yourleasingco.com.au or find us on our socials by searching “Your Leasing Co” and like us on Face Book and Linked In. Or you can just Call us on 1300 356 702 We look forward to hearing from you.
IS IT BEST TO SPECIALISE IN ONE AREA OF HAIR OR HAIRDRESSING AS A WHOLE? By Larissa Macleman
This is a question I get asked a lot. Whether it’s about hair or beauty, so many Owners that I know often feel torn between what I call ‘niching down’, or instead trying to appeal to more people.
And I know how you feel! You often feel like you don’t want to narrow down your options… because that seems counterintuitive, right?! But then again, you see so many other Salons & Spas out there targeting a super-specific audience, and you wonder whether you should start doing the same… I actually have a super strong opinion on this… it’s one that I really believe in whole-heartedly.
My Opinion... My short answer is YES, you need to specialise in something. Have a focus point and reason for ‘being’ beyond just doing beauty or just doing hair... I actually believe in this so much, that it’s something I teach within my paid program. I help owners work out their area of expertise, so that they can: Focus on what they deliver Send a clear message to the marketplace that they are expert in xyz This is so important, because if you think about the journey of a client when she is looking for a new hair or beauty service provider... they google, they social stalk, they ask their friends. But how do they make their final choice? It’s not like there is any shortage of salons to choose from… so there needs to be a defining factor. And that factor needs to be that YOU are the expert in your area of specialization… that way, your potential new clients will know straight away whether your Salon is what they’re looking for, or not.
so think about what she needs, wants & desires. Instead of talking to ‘everyone’, you should be talking to her… ‘The One’!
Talk to ‘The One’ The One is your ideal client, the person who raves about your business and is unflinchingly loyal. This is the person who, if you could have even 50 more clients like them, you’d be well on your way to hitting your biggest goals. The way you fill your salon with these people is by niching down, which means getting crystal clear on who your ideal client is, what challenges they face and how you can uniquely solve their problem. But beyond solving their specific problem, you also need to know how to articulate the problem you solve for them.
To make YOU the obvious choice, you need to tell the world why they should come to you... because you STAND for something!
How does your ideal client talk about their problems and challenges, and what is it they say they want?
And I know the common fear… that you don’t want to narrow yourself down and limit the amount of clients you could bring into your business.
Niche down your message and mirror it back to them in their own language, and you’ll find that your clients look to you like their salon soulmate.
But showing yourself as the expert in YOUR area of expertise is actually going to have the opposite effect… Because when you try to appeal to EVERYONE, you end up appealing to no-one! If you aren’t sure what your area of expertise should be… you need to have your ideal client in mind. Talk directly to her! She is ‘The One’,
Be The Expert Now that you’ve niched down and narrowed in on your ideal client, it’s time to show them who’s the expert. But first, you need to make sure you’re the expert they need and want. If you’re not clear on the expert you need to be for your ideal client, head back to step one and return to the drawing board.
For example, does your client want you to be an extensions expert or the queen bee of balayage? Again, trying to be everything to everyone doesn’t help you gain traction, you have to double down on who you’re talking to and take a stand on what you’re talking to them about. At the end of the day, the biggest competition isn’t the salon down the street; it’s the pace in which people scroll through their social media feeds. Position yourself as the expert on the thing your ideal client needs and wants from you (of course, these two things should be aligned), and you’ll command a level of attention that stops the scroll. At the end of the day, people want to: 1. Trust your skills and expertise 2. Know you can look after THEM The cool thing is that this lets THEM decide if you are right for them. It changes your marketing strategy to clients wanting to come to you… rather than you trying to convince people to come to you.
And that’s WHY you SHOULD specialise. Larissa Macleman is the CEO & Founder of the Salon Owners Collective Podcast- The Salon Owners Collective Podcast Website- www.salonownerscollective.com Facebook- Salon Owners Collective Instagram- @salonownerscollective
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MINDSET MATTERS Part 1
A DEEPER LOOK INTO WHAT WE DO, WHY WE DO IT AND HOW THE POWER OF CHANGE STARTS WITH YOU. That’s quite a ‘powerhouse’ you have upstairs, and both consciously and unconsciously, hundreds of trillions of neuronal connections are being made with each second we breathe life. Whilst the human brain is by far one of the most complex objects known to man, with that complexity also comes mystery. Mix it in with the body and soul, the mystery deepens and down the rabbit hole you go. But before diving in and free-falling your way through it, let’s keep our feet on the ground and gain a better understanding of how your ‘powerhouse’ works and how you have more control than you realise. Amongst the many studies out there, including biology, neuroscience, quantum physics and epigenetics (just to name a few), lies the idea that we have infinite potential and personal power. Where this potential and power becomes limited is a result of our thoughts and perceptions, which in turn affects the cells in our body, therefore altering our DNA. With this newfound information, we are living in a time where we can no longer ignore the effects that our brains and the information it holds has on us, but what we can do is gain a better understanding of it, and find ways to create more positive, profound effects, releasing the grip of old patterns and create new, more supportive patterns, habits and behaviours. We can indeed become masters of our own mindscapes, but it’s not something that just happens; we need to do the work. Much like any learning, whether it be a trade, degree or life skill, we simply need to begin. But first, let’s strengthen our knowledge further. From the moment we are born, our brains have already been developing for quite some time. In fact, the brain starts to take shape within 4 weeks of conception! During pregnancy, our brains development is all about growing neutrons and connections and making sure each section of the brain grows properly and in 112
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the right area. Controlled by genes, this process takes a huge amount of energy; but did you also know that our behaviours and environment can cause changes that effect the way our genes work? In fact, they also have an influence of our limiting beliefs, issues and traumas that we carry. To simplify, scientists are now researching that epigenetic changes resulting from traumatic experiences can be passed from one generation to the next, sometimes referred to as intergenerational trauma. Throw your current life in and what effect it has on your cognitive state, what could you be passing on? And what have you possibly inherited? We’ve all heard the saying ‘you are what you think’ and that ‘powerhouse’ brain of yours is running the show. So, what does this all mean? I want you to consider what goes through your head, when you have to deal with a difficult client, perhaps you want to resign from your salon, or as an employer you want to let someone go. You get anxiety when it comes to increasing your service price, or the thoughts that enter your head when a client appears to be ‘cold’ towards you. So many scenarios that evoke emotion in you, create motivation or arouse fear. A lot of us will say ‘but I can’t help it”, but what if you can? Another thing to consider is your gender. Regardless of how you identify yourself, you were born with either male or female parts, and this also has an impact on how we think and respond to the world. One of my favourite examples of this is a husband and wife. The wife turns to the husband and says, ‘what are you thinking babe?’ to which the man responds ‘nothing’, so the wife asks again and gets the same answer. The thing is, when a man says he’s thinking about nothing, he is LITERALLY thinking about nothing. The husband asks the wife the same question. Only when she says ‘nothing’ she actually means EVERYTHING. There is certainly a lot more complexity to how females function, but there are reasons for that. For example, women contain more ganglion cells in their eyes, meaning they can process more visual information as they send the image to the brain. Females brains also have a resting state of 70%, while men’s is at 30%. What this
By Angeli Marie Shaw
basically means is woman have the ability to take more information in than men, even when they are not directly paying attention. Women literally ‘see’ more than men. Annoyed your son missed that sock on the floor under the couch? Guess what? He probably didn’t see it, but a woman will, always. Can you relate? Then there’s the topic of conscious and unconscious thoughts. The conscious mind has the power to decide what filters into our subconscious mind, however the issue is that we are not taught to actively choose our thoughts. We tend to just accept whatever is filtering through. Our conscious mind has the power to reprogram our subconscious mind and this is done mainly through repetition. For example, think back to the first time you did a blow dry. You had to consciously think about what to do, how to section, hold your brush and coordinate your dryer with your arm movements. In time, those actions have become automatic, and you’re able to do it subconsciously. This can be applied to almost anything in life, but in order to make changes, we need to bring these things into our conscious mind, and then choose to take action. The past century has seen huge steps forward in our understanding of how the brain works, and with so many therapies, modalities, tools etc. to choose from when wanting to grow, change and improve our mindscapes, it can understandably become an overwhelming process. Please know that any step you take, no matter how big or small is an investment in YOU and if you refer to parts of my article, you may just be doing good by your future offspring too! So how do you decide where to begin? Part 2 coming in the next issue!
Love & Bliss, Angeli xxoo Angeli is a Holistic Empowerment Coach, Mindset Mentor and founder of The Bliss Coach. To find out more and get in touch visit www.theblisscoach.com.au or follow us on our socials @theblisscoach
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