Wella Education

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[wellaeducation]

Judge Me

For this year’s Beauty Envision Awards judging panel, we selected the best of the best— each judge’s talents and qualifications are both inspiring and admirable. Future finalists, your fates are in their hands.

Stephen Moody: @hairmoody

Wella North American Education Director Stephen Moody is the judge for this year’s Beauty Envision Awards Future Star Category! Being the mastermind behind our continent-wide commitment to salon professional education, Stephen has devoted his career to helping countless stylist’s careers take flight and knows exactly what it takes for a student to become a superstar!

Christian Wood: @cwoodhair 

Do you have what it takes to style the stars? Wella Pro Celebrity Ambassador Christian Wood will be the judge of that! You guessed it, Christian will be judging the Editorial Hair category. With the ultimate star-studded clientele, including Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Emily Ratajkowski, and our queen bee Global Ambassador Sophie Turner, Christian is a Hollywood go-to when it comes to headlining hairstyles.

Whitney Burkhart: @wb_upstyles

The lovely Whitney Burkhart is the judge for this year’s Bridal Hair category! Recognized as one of the nation’s top upstyling and braiding stylists, Whitney has earned multiple nominations at top-level styling competitions. Whitney knows what it takes to win, so show her what you’ve got! 

Suzi Weiss-Fischmann: @1stladyofcolors

CoFounder, brand ambassador, & creative visionary behind OPI Professionals, Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, will be judging the Nail Art category of this year’s Beauty Envision Awards! Not only is Suzi the ultimate girl boss, but she has also been an influential figure in paving the way for women to pursue their own colorful dreams. 

Kim Bruce: @themistfitblonde

There was no doubt in our minds when we chose Kim Bruce to judge the Kadus Total Transformation Category—misfit blondes have more fun, and what’s more fun than seeing the results of a hair transformation?! Known for her gorgeous before and afters, Kim is the fairy godmother of blonde dreams come true (and maybe your Beauty Envision Awards dreams, too!). 

Shay Dempsey: @shaydempsey1

We are so blessed to present creative visionary Shay Dempsey as the judge for the Creative Hair Category! As the Global Artistic Director for Sebastian Professional, Shay is nothing less than a master when it comes to fearless and cutting-edge styles. He is the ultimate judge to make the winning cut for Creative Hair. 

Ryan Weeden: @ryan.weeden1

Masters of Balayage founder, international educator, and entrepreneur Ryan Weeden is no stranger to making dreams into a reality. This hair painting expert knows all about creating the very best color and blend, making him the obvious choice to judge this year’s Color Artist of The Year category!

Mark Bustos: @markbustos

High-end stylist, Be Awesome to Somebody founder, and Beauty Envision Awards Men’s Hair category judge, Mark Bustos, has made a name for himself in the world of barbering. He has inspired us all with his commitment to using his talent to give back to the community by giving free haircuts to the homeless of New York City. We are so fortunate to have Mark continue to share his time and talent by judging this competition!

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Mentor Over Matter

You already know the names of this year’s fabulous Beauty Envision Awards mentors, but do you know their stories? Find out a little bit more about your potential future mentor and check out their work below!

Sonya Dove

Color queen and Wella Global Artist, Sonya Dove is this year’s mentor for the US TrendVision Color Artist of the Year Category. Sonya’s extensive hairdressing and competition experience, along with her modern take on color, make her the perfect mentor for this category.

Check out her work here: @sonyadove

Dana Lyseng

If you’re a finalist for Canadian TrendVision Color Artist of the year, Wella Top Artist Dana Lyseng will be your mentor! As the owner and creative director of the super trendy Supernova Salon, Dana definitely knows her #WellaColor.

Check out her work here: @danalysenghair

Brenton Lee

Self-made celebrity artist, salon owner, and NATVA winner Brenton Lee will be mentoring lucky Future Star Category Finalists. From his start of cutting hair at age 14, Brenton went on to win numerous hairstyling awards across the US and to open his own salon in California. As an educator himself, there is no doubt he will guide Future Star finalists to success.

Check out his work here: @brentonleepro

Caroline Kim

The well-published Kadus Professional Global Director and colorist extraordinaire, Caroline Kim, is this year’s mentor for the Total Transformation category. The wealth of knowledge she’s shared around the world is sure to support stylists while they recreate their competition looks.

Check out her work here: @carolinekimhair

Anthony Cole

Finalists for the Editorial Hair category will be mentored by Sebastian Professional International Artist and Educator Anthony Cole. Anthony’s 27 years of experience, passion for education, and creative expression will be essential in the final round of the competition.

Check out his work here: @anthonycolesebastian

Diane Stevens

Mentoring the finalists of the Bridal Hair category will be NIOXIN Artist, Diane Stevens. Diane is no stranger to teaching and motivating hairdressers, and enjoys working with those who possess a love and commitment for the industry—a perfect match for this category’s finalists!  

Check out her work here: @dianestevens3

Marylle Koken

Sebastian Professional Artist, celebrity stylist, and creative legend Marylle Koken will be guiding the Creative Hair category finalists. As the owner of the edgy California salon The Harlot, Marylle is full of creativity and innovation that will inspire & guide these finalists.

Check out her work here: @kokentheharlot

Joshua Wagner

SEB MAN Barber Joshua Wagner is putting the men in mentor as the mentor for the Beauty Envision Awards Men’s Hair Finalists. After barbering for the US Navy and completing years of training, Joshua has educated stylists around the US. Finalists for this category are fortunate to have someone who loves to share his ideas and work with stylists to create incredible looks.

Check out his work here: @wagz227

Nail Career Education

Nail art aficionado Nail Career Education will be guiding Finalists through the Beauty Envision Awards Nail Art category’s final round of the competition. With her expertise & passion for education, we have no doubt this year’s Finalists will NAIL these looks.

Check out her work here: @nailcareereducation

[wellaeducation]

Keeping It Real with Sydniiee

You can say Sydniiee Oliveira has a flair for the dramatic, and there’s a good reason. “I became a stylist kind of naturally from working in hair and makeup for theatre.” The Visalia, CA, stylist conjures up custom formulas and has her selfies down to an art, showing off her own fantastic transformations—think blood-red colored contacts and impeccable makeup to match—plus, her hair has us double-tapping nonstop!

Sydniiee loved creating looks for the stage when she was working in theatre. “It just flowed over into actually making a career of it!” Now, her looks are gracing more even more stages. You can currently find her touring the country doing hair and makeup for rock goddess Ann Wilson of Heart!

Sydniiee’s next step? Taking the stage herself! Sydniiee was a TrendVision semi-finalist and is working to bring even more to the competition this year. “That was a really amazing moment for me, and I can’t wait to enter again this year! I want to be on that stage and I want to show people, in person, the kind of art I can create.”

Back to her amazingly artistic Insta. She knows what works. “Advertisement has always been a part of hairdressing to generate clientele, and social media is just that.”

Her tips to stylists starting out online? Use hashtags to engage with your audience, but be sure to stay true to yourself.  

“Make sure what you're promoting and posting is true to your brand and who you are as a stylist, and the right clients will find you. Make sure your content is clean and in focus.”

Whether she’s online or backstage, Sydniiee keeps it real. For her, it’s all about being yourself.

What 3 tips does Sydniiee have for up and coming stylists?

1. Learn from everyone. The good, the bad, the weird. Everything and everyone has a lesson to teach you when you're new. Take advantage of it.

2. Don't be afraid to fail. Some of my most brilliant outcomes only happened because I messed up first and figured out how to fix it.

3. Be YOU. There are so many kinds of hairdressers that you can pull inspo from, but it's so important to be your own person and stylist. Others (clients and stylists) will love you for it and appreciate you way more. Just be authentic. 

Fill in the blank:

I couldn’t live without: 

Redbull! It's seriously my life blood, haha!

My favorite motto is:

Learn the rules like a professional, then break them like an artist.

My guilty pleasure is:

I try to never feel guilty about anything that I enjoy, haha! 

My first favorite place in the world is:

My house. I call it my tomb, 'cause I fill it with all my dark, romantic, creepy things that make me happy :)

Favorite Wella Product:

EIMI Glam Mist and Sugar Lift are a tie! I love them!

Big, shiny hair! Who doesn't love that!?

Current favorite trend:

I'm really loving that people are starting to embrace fantasy shades. When my blonde girlies feel like getting a little rebellious with some baby pink or lavender in their hair, I live for that!  

If I wasn’t a hairstylist, I would be:

Dead. I literally could not see myself doing anything else. This is my life!

[wellaeducation]

So You Want to Take the Stage at WNA

Hey #wellafamily – did you catch #WhatsNext? The 5th annual Sebastian What’s Next Awards were LIVE last Sunday - and fierce would be an understatement.  Damaris Earlewine - past winner and present judge - is here to give you the inside scoop on what it takes.

So you may ask, how do you become What’s Next? Well, for one, you’ve got to take a risk.  

It all started for Damaris in her 2nd year as an independent hairstylist. “I thought about moments of doubt I had venturing out on my own, thinking I could fail. I was adamant on pursuing Sebastian What's Next Awards with my creative visions. Sebastian WNA inspired me to put myself out there and take a chance on the unknown.”

The Sebastian What’s Next Awards are unique, not just in their ceremony but in the entry process. Each stylist is encouraged to explore their creativity and push their boundaries. “Sebastian has a way of capturing your attention with their innate ability for self-expression.”

Needless to say, the competition demands a strong sense of personality and gives each entrant permission to take creative liberties. “You're pushed to think outside the box of what's possible and make it happen.”

One of the best parts? Stylists get to show off their authentic tastes and develop their skills side by side. It’s an opportunity to find your community and stay in touch long after winners are announced. Many past WNA finalists stay connected and even end up working together.

For example - Damaris teamed up with John Paul, the affiliated artist winner from last year, on an upcoming project. “We did the Sebastian Rockstar Makeover on a lucky young couple!” Needless to say, making the move to apply can truly be the game-changer your career is craving.

“All of these opportunities left me with a new perspective on what I do for a living, which goes further than just ‘doing hair.’ There's a camaraderie within the Sebastian family that shines brightly.” And every single event is a new opportunity to learn and advance your career. “I've learned something new from every experience that I can apply to my life and career.” Those lessons are priceless. “You can't buy that sort of thing – it’s something you earn by working hard.”

So, you want to make it on that WNA stage– but how? Start with staying true to yourself.

“I think an entry has to have a piece of you, that's what makes it unique. When you're putting yourself out there you want to show your best. Look beyond what everyone else is doing. Think it through carefully: What do you want your image to convey? At the end of the day you only have that one image to tell your story.”

Entering a big competition like WNA can seem intimidating, but it’s worth trying! “Do it! Just do it! You can't lose anything by entering. As artists, all we want to do is CREATE!” Take it from Damaris—it’s time to make something happen!

Fill in the blank…

I couldn’t live without: My cute little poodle Lola! She literally looks like a teddy bear and she gives the best snuggles. 

My favorite motto is: If you want something you've never had, you have to do something you've never done.

My guilty pleasure is: Donuts and binge-watching movies! 

My first favorite place in the world is: I am a sucker for the Pacific Northwest! I recently went back to visit Seattle last November with my husband. There's something about autumn in Seattle that captivates me. The rain, the cold and the beautiful scenery fills my heart with joy.

Favorite Wella Product: Sebastian Trilliant spray - I love using it as a cutting lotion!

Current favorite trend: Balayage, of course! Especially with fashion tones. I'm in love with vivid to pastel colored balayage.

If I wasn’t a hairstylist, I would be: A photographer for sure!

[wellaeducation]

Trends, Transformations and Staying True to Yourself

Frankie Daniels has been obsessed with hair since childhood. Who could blame him? (Not us!) 

Growing up in LA, he experimented with color and extensions long before he attended the Paul Mitchell school. After graduating, he had a head start to his career under the mentorship of Wella Top Artist Brenton Lee and Wella Master Color Expert Angela Le in Pasadena before moving to Portland, Oregon. 

But if Frankie wasn’t a hairstylist, he’d be in advertising or marketing—and it shows on his IG! “Social media is huge. I get about 80% of my clients from social media.” Double tap to that.

Frankie’s insider tips to a fascinating feed? “Keeping up with fresh new ideas for videos and photos makes a huge difference. Know your demographic and market every way possible to them.” 

He uses Instagram regularly, and he’s all about hashtags! “Hashtags are huge!” Some of Frankie’s favorites include #PDXhair, #Portland, #Balayage, #Babylights, #HairStylist and our personal fave: #WellaLife!

Naturally, Frankie loves to know what’s #trending. Balayage and babylights are huge in Portland right now – and, like many other stylists, he also loves the “trend” of individuality! That’s where the fun comes in! 

He has learned to get inspired by trends, then put his own spin on them to bring something new to the conversation. “Things that keep me going are taking time out of my busy schedule to do creative hair projects with clients. Such as full makeovers and big changes!” Transformation Tuesday, anyone?!

But his greatest professional achievement would have to be the day he rented his own studio and became his own boss. (Shout out to all you #salontrepreneurs!) Now that he’s an independent stylist, he plans to continue building his brand—and to help other grow and thrive in this wonderful industry!

3 tips for up-and-coming stylists?

Work very, very hard. Never turn down a client. Show up to work early and ready to work!  

I could never live without: My Wella Blondor!

Favorite motto: If you don't like it, change it! 

Guilty pleasure: Shopping!

Favorite place in the world: On the beach soaking up the sun. 

Current favorite trend: The combination of babylights and balayage toned to a silver-grey.

[wellaeducation]

When #InstaGoals meet #HairGoals….

You’ve seen her on the ‘gram, creating amazing colors you barely knew were possible. But how did Kelly Naso get to be such a color goddess? Two things: dedication, and good old-fashioned hard work!

Kelly’s skills and drive have advanced her career—she’s currently enrolled in the prestigious Master Color Expert program—but she’s not slowing down anytime soon. “My goals are to become a Wella educator—I’m very passionate about Wella and would love to educate other stylists—and to potentially collaborate with other stylists!”

Once an artist, always an artist: before hair, Kelly studied art and worked in graphic design. But art itself wasn’t enough, and Kelly craved a way to bring her passion to work every day. Her skills and imagination were pushed to new levels in the MCE studio. And Kelly wants to share creative powers for good.

“I love to make people feel beautiful. I love seeing them have confidence in themselves.” She makes each workday dynamic and vibrant. “I love that it’s so colorful and different every day—creating colors and customizing each formula to every client.”

Kelly has the determination to never give up, the discipline to create every day, and the foresight to plan new goals—plus, this California girl knows how to have fun in the studio! “It’s my favorite place to be—my Disneyland! I love the Wella Studio and team!” As her grandfather—also a stylist—used to tell her, “If you love your job, you’ll never feel like you work a day in your life.”

Her tips to up-and-coming stylists?

1. Education is key

2. Always stay focused.

3. Stay current and ahead. 

One way to stay ahead: Instagram. Kelly knows a picture is worth a thousand words—or, in her case, thousands of followers! “Instagram is an amazing tool and I love what it’s become for the hair industry. It enables us to interact, network, and learn from each other.”

Her tips for stylists hoping to up their Insta game? “Find good lighting for pictures—I feel like that’s a big struggle.” She also recommends posting contact info for potential clients to reach out and book appointments. Her final tip? “Stay consistent!”

Fill in the blank:

I couldn’t live without: Wella ❤

My guilty pleasure is: Almond joy, I will eat them all. It's horrible.

My favorite place in the world is: Besides the Wella Studio, it would be Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Favorite Wella Product: Illumina, Luxe Oil

Current favorite trend: Bronde, hair contouring

[wellaeducation]

Fresh on the Scene - And the Stage!

They say age is just a number… and when it comes to NATVA Student winner Megan Hertel – they’re right. This 19-year-old’s got it and has definitely proved she can flaunt it.

Megan’s successful early career comes from a killer work ethic – and her inner power.

“My motto is so cliché, being from Kansas, but Glinda the Good Witch said it best: ‘You had the power all along, my dear.’”

And in total good witch style, one of Megan’s passions is uplifting and supporting other women. “I think women need to find the confidence in themselves more easily, and my industry truly helps bring this out.”

Which is exactly what brought Megan to cosmetology school. “Hair and beauty have a way of bringing out an inner spirit that I think everyone has.” And Megan’s spirit shined through with her fearless debut at NATVA in July!

Her biggest lesson from the experience? “Don’t hold back on your creativity!” Megan certainly held nothing back and took the theme—Molten Ecaille—to the next level, incorporating the look of oxidized metal into her colorful look. Her inspired style melted multi-tonal color and paired it with edgy texture.

Megan’s creativity and determination paid off: her hair alchemy worked its magic, and she took the gold in the Student category. This pinnacle moment made Megan realize - “If others had confidence in my work, then I should, too.”

Her next big move this year? Experiencing the International Trend Vision Awards live from Barcelona. “I totally loved being surrounded by the beauty of so many different cultures at ITVA.”

But to Megan, there’s no place like home. When she isn’t traveling, Megan works at Allure Salon in Kansas, and she’s getting closer to her future goal of becoming a highly-skilled stylist through mentorship, education and career development.

And possibly her biggest move of 2016? Becoming her own boss as an independent contractor. “Running my own business is a challenge! I feel so blessed that I was given this experience and I look forward to continued training and growing my business.”

With a 2016 that bright – we think Megan’s 2017 is bound to shine.  

Favorites

Advice: Be happy!

Product: I love all my Wella products! *Cough Cough* – Dry Me EIMI

Upcoming trend: Past Forward, because we need to put a little Audrey Hepburn back into our lives!

[wellaeducation]

To ITVA, and Beyond!

Ready to get comfortable with being uncomfortable? If anyone’s story is going to make you want to take that risk, try something new, or put yourself out there – its Cena Jordan’s.

She wasn’t expecting to win gold. She wasn’t expecting to compete on an international stage. She wasn’t expecting to represent the U.S. But she stepped up, believed in herself and brought her A game.

“My favorite part of the [NATVA] experience was being outside my comfort zone. I was put into an entirely new and intimidating situation and I feel that I have grown so much from it.”

Her biggest lesson? Confidence.

“I think it’s important to feel confident in your work—it’s something I have never been good at.”

But Cena shook off her doubts and went from unsure to unstoppable. She took bold and creative risks at NATVA – which landed her the gold Color Vision award and a coveted spot competing at the International Trend Vision Awards.

“The work I saw at ITVA was out of this world, and I can’t tell you how honored I felt to be competing in the same category as them.”

While competitors prepare the same look at NATVA, ITVA is a totally different game.

“Preparing for ITVA was almost as challenging as preparing for NATVA. What's nice is you already know what your look will be. You are more just trying to perfect it and really dig deep on what inspired you and how it went with the trend. You're stepping it up a notch.”

And through this experience especially, Cena’s learned that building confidence isn’t a solo gig. She was mentored by past NATVA winner, Alisha Basham, who “always had the right words to say!”

Now she’s more motivated than ever to pass on her mentorship to others. “To me, mentorship is such a rewarding job. You are preparing a person to succeed. There’s nothing that can make you feel better than that.”

So to our next NATVA stars – you might just be seeing Cena soon. “I would really love to put a class together on preparing for NATVA and ITVA combined. I am determined to help the U.S. win!”

So what’s next? Cena’s currently entering more competitions and working towards opening her own salon! Her favorite advice is “do what makes it fun” – which she’s clearly taken to heart.

[wellaeducation]

Hungry, Humble, and Heartfelt

“It doesn’t matter where you’re from, but where you’re going!” Josh Wagner lives by these words, and they’ve taken him far. From after school haircuts on his Kentucky front porch to keeping sailors looking sharp on Navy ships to New York Fashion Week… there’s no stopping Josh any time soon.

From the start, Josh’s first mentors Mike and Idajean Moore of Mii Salon drilled into him that education is no joke when it comes to a booming career in the hair industry. He took that mentality with him to the Sebastian Design team, where he met mentor #3 – close friend, teammate, and travel buddy Anthony Cole.

“I cannot even begin to tell you how much I learned from this man. He invited me to travel with him all over the country and other parts of the world.  I had to pay my way, which wasn't easy as a young stylist, but the friendship and mentorship I received through the many adventures is a life's work of what having a brother and mentor is all about.”

Their mission abroad was to educate, but it wasn’t long before the teachers became the students when Josh and Anthony taught a class in Mumbai, India. When local stylists shared stories about unfair treatment they experienced as women, Josh had a revelation. “It was the first time I realized how important our brand was.”

“When I told this room full of women stylists that the company I worked for was started by one of the most iconic women in our industry, their eyes lit up. I saw a change in that room: how they cut, how they talked with their clients, and how they felt about their industry.”

“Our brand is always pushing women to be the strongest, boldest version of themselves.”

And with that inspiration in mind, Josh keeps pushing himself. “I’m scared of almost everything I attempt, but I’m more scared of the regret of not trying.”

So what’s next? Josh stays hustling by continuing his career on the Sebastian Design Team, planning his honeymoon trip to South Africa (!!!) and educating around the world. He’s taking the organization he co-founded, Barbers Without Borders, to Guatemala to finish a trade school, develop a curriculum, and give back to the local community.

The biggest lesson he’s learned through it all? “When you’re doing good work, the doors will open!” We see many doors opening for Josh on the horizon.

Favorites

Color trend: Rose gold base

Wella product: Illumina

Advice received in the past year: Focus on your strengths!

Wella course: Alexandra Matiz Reds and Blondes--one of my 2017 goals!

[wellaeducation]

Meet MCE Scholarship Winner – Ray Barron!

Self-proclaimed colorist, stylist and magic hair-maker Ray Barron found his calling the old fashioned way. He took the scenic route (and figured it out in the process).

“Growing up, I was that kid that couldn’t stay home. I would get into too much trouble. So my mom or dad would always take me to my uncle’s house.”

Ray’s uncle was a hairstylist. “It became a ‘summer thing’ to work with him at his salon. Once I got into my teen years, I went to an academy high school focusing in art, but something just didn’t fit with who I was.”

Ray was searching for his thing, and began to find his path by looking at a few hair schools.  He went for it. A year later, he was licensed and “ready to rumble!” Fast forward 8 years… and he’s got some major street cred, along with an adoring clientele.

“I found a love for hair coloring and it connected with an artistic side of me.”

And now that he’s found it, there’s no stopping him! He raced right into our hearts -  which earned him the Hairdressers at Heart Master Color Expert Scholarship. “Honestly it was a HUGE mile mark for me; getting to show people who I am, what I can do, and what it means to be a colorist is breathtaking.”

With the MCE program came a new level of confidence and people skills –– in addition to new application methods and color theory. “Instead of informing a client with an obscure request that ‘No, I can’t {insert obscure request} because…’ I can now respond with ‘yeah I can make that happen for you.”

Like many of us, Ray joins the club of hairstylists who found true life, passion and fulfillment through the craft. “Being a hair professional allows me to reach into that person’s life through his or her hair and bring out their best features. hat is something truly magical.”

Favorites!

Upcoming trend:

“REDS REDS REDS!”

Piece of advice you’ve received:

“Slow down and breathe.”

Hair product:  

“EIMI Sugar Lift – I could almost eat it because it smells like candy!”

[wellaeducation]

Catching Up with the Color King - Mark DeBolt

If waiting around for inspiration is for amateurs, then NYC (formerly Minneapolis) colorist and two-time NAVTA winner, Mark DeBolt is a consummate professional. One that’s young at heart.

Spend two minutes with him, and you’ll feel the tingling sense of enthusiasm and encouragement –– the desire to teach and learn. We learned that four years ago when we talked to him last. Nothing has changed.

Time and experience in the industry has only bolstered Mark’s passion. The mentor teaches what he knows, and the students unknowingly inspire and shift the perspective of the mentor.

But what in recent history makes Mark, Mark?

He relocated to New York, for one. “There is so much life here, and I find the people on the street to be the most interesting. They come from every corner of the world, bringing their own unique energy and add to the electricity in the air.”

He’s grown as a person in the past four years, too. “Starting over gives you a chance to think about what kind of person you are. I found the space to see how my thoughts, actions and words affect those around me and how they affect myself.”

And that definitely helps Mark in the day-to-day as he continues the mentor/mentee relationship with just about everyone that crosses his path. “I am mentored by everyone that I work with, including my clients. They have mentored me in a way too.”

So what would Mark advise to stylists who are looking for growth?

Put in the time. Put in the effort. Put in the focus. “It all starts behind the chair. This is where you learn discipline, communication, technique, timing and artistry.”  

And on finding inspiration?

Simply put, “do not look to someone else to inspire you. It will come from inside of you. Remember that every thought and action you have is creating your present and future.”

Color Trend: Natural hair color

Wella product: Wella ILLUMINA Color

Advice you received in the past year: Blow dry your hair to look like Brad Pitt in “Interview with a Vampire.”

Mistakes to avoid: Do not buy a white sofa.

Wella course: Anything with Alexandra Matiz. That woman is a color goddess.

[wellaeducation]

Master Gianpaolo Spills His Secrets

You know you’ve got it. But are you ready to flaunt it? Entering Sebastian’s acclaimed What’s Next Awards should be next on your #Goals list, which means it’s time to put your stylist game-face on!

And what better way to do that than by learning from a master? Enter Gianpaolo Colombo –– last year’s Affiliated Artist competition winner and this year’s expert mentor of the 2-day Groundwork: WNA seminar. Lucky you, because he’s ready to help you prepare your own entry for the competition.

The Groundwork: WNA seminar will supply you with wardrobe, a photographer, a makeup artist and one-on-one mentorship from Sebastian Design Team artist Gianpaolo. You’ll be responsible for bringing a vision, mission and desire for domination – and don’t forget a model!

Take it from a winner; the Sebastian WNA competition will set you apart.

“WNA has pushed my career to another level and has given me many opportunities with Sebastian,” said Gianpaolo.

He also noted that the competition reemphasized the importance of pushing boundaries, believing in himself and being tenacious, “because everything is possible if you put your mind to it.”

After competing in everything from photoshoots to live competitions, Gianpaolo says that this one is really something special. “The hardest part? Not knowing your model once you reach the finals. It challenges you as an artist, both technically and mentally –– and it demands creativity.”

Take this from a winner, too: if you’re not 100% #confident now… the Groundwork: WNA seminar will help you get there.

Why? Because Gianpaolo says so. “The Groundwork seminar is a great way to get a better understanding of the collection first hand from a Sebastian artist and offers MANY tools to help you –– from storyboards and wardrobe, to different principles of design and one-on-one mentorship.”

Take the 2-day class or not (but do!). This winner has some competition-worthy words of wisdom for you…

“Don't be afraid. Just put yourself out there, and then you're already a winner!”

[wellaeducation]

Every Day, She’s Hustlin’

Hitting the hairdressing stage at sixteen, Stevie sought a platform to express her punk-rock aesthetic. She found it behind the chair.

And just like punk music, Stevie’s aesthetic has since evolved.

Reading, art and exposing herself to a wide variety of cultures and subcultures have changed the way she creates. What hasn’t changed? “That spirit of DIY and thrill of the underground will always be a part of me.”

Also rooted in her anti-establishment beginnings, Stevie believes you have to be different to be seen.

“I believe that if one possesses a deeply personal point of view, it enables them to cultivate a unique perspective. And a creative vision backed by a solid technical foundation will always stand the test of time.”

She ramped up her own technical skills early on while training with some of Atlanta’s top stylists. From there, she helped to develop an innovative curriculum for Sine Qua Non in Chicago. And as a perpetual student, Stevie never stops learning with workshops and classes.

So far, it’s all paid off.

Stevie spent years happily working in other people’s salons before teaming up with her partner Michael Davis. “Starting the Smith & Davis Salon opened up this whole other side of myself I didn't know existed. And Michael has been my biggest supporter in elevating my career and pursuing education and photography.”

Add auditioning for and landing an Educator position for the Wella Design Team to her list of accomplished dreams. “I loved the preparations leading up to the day but the actual audition was terrifying, thrilling, challenging and at the same time I felt totally in my element. It was a rush!”

And just when you would think Stevie’s done, she’s coming back for more. She’s always operating at full volume with her sight set on the next project. “I honestly am always inspired. If anything I wish I could turn the stimulation down a notch sometimes!”

But to find out what’s next, (we wish we knew but) we’ll have to wait…

Stevie’s taking her cue from a tip she heard on Ted Radio Hour. “When you speak about your goals you are less likely to achieve them. So let's just say… I'm always hustlin'!”

[wellaeducation]

Megan of Many Colors

Forever drawn to art and all things beautiful, it wasn’t until Megan Schipani’s second year of college that she realized she wasn’t pursuing the right path. Letting her passions guide her, Megan discovered the beauty industry was summoning her.

In the ever-evolving beauty industry, Megan stays ahead of the game by proving that no request is too bold. Her specialty? Creating unique, bright and vivid manes.

Her foot in the door? Alchemy salon in Silver Spring, MD where she worked as a receptionist until the owner Roxi suggested she try an apprenticeship – “just to see if she liked it.”

And she did-- the proof is in Megan’s Instagram feed. More than just like, though… Megan loved it.

“It was a crazy three years full of long hours, tons of learning, many meltdowns, and a lot of amazing memories. This past March I started on the floor a couple days a week, and in May I became a full-time Junior Stylist.”

In her brief time as a stylist, Megan has built a color-crazed clientele through her social media prowess… finding herself reposted on Behind the Chair, Modern Salon and Wella Education, to name a few. And since her clients have already seen her top-notch work? “They give me creative freedom. ‘Do whatever you want!’ is my favorite thing to hear.”

She draws from the beauty she encounters. “I often find myself quiet, observing everything I see. I draw inspiration from magazines, blogs, fashion, places I travel to, Instagram, artwork, music and nature.”

So, what will Megan make of her colorful reign? She’s hungry to continue her education, and has been experimenting with some teaching moments herself by sharing her fresh techniques with other stylists and apprentices.

“Being an educator is something I can see myself doing in the future.” And we think, what Megan sees… shall be.

* Food: Ben and Jerry's Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream * Place to visit: Boston * Motto: "Do what you love even if it's not for money. The happiness of enjoying your passion will flow into other areas of your life and give exponential returns." Shawna O'Hagan Morrow

[wellaeducation]

#TheMonaCut

Watch out world - New York hairstylist Mona Baltazar is making headlines and you’re going to want to know who she is. A creative who can’t keep her hands still, pursuing everything from hair to fashion to photography and so much more, this one’s a force to be reckoned with.  

Mona has already been featured in Texture Magazine and the August 2016 edition of Elle for her work with hair, and that’s just the start. While she’s rising through the ranks of styling rock stars across the country, she’s also a rock star to her daughter (Their favorite creation right now? Stuffed ice cream cones and donuts!), her Etsy jewelry buyers (find her work here: thatsmona.etsy.com) and, of course, her clients.

So where did everything begin? Mona started like most of us – studying cosmetology in her hometown of San Jose, California. But in 2006, Mona took a step in a different creative direction – one that led her across the country to FIT in NYC. After finishing the program, she realized hair was her calling and that she would use the lessons she learned through fashion as a cornerstone to her practice.

“In fashion, we build from the inside out: angle, shape, character, texture and design. I apply the same elements when it comes to hair.”

As an artist, Mona has fine-tuned her skills to deliver one-of-a-kind, customized hairstyles that are as unique and expressive as the clients themselves!

"We express ourselves through fashion; your hair should do the same.”

Enter - #TheMonaCut.

Mona’s cuts and clips are taking the individuality of hairstyling to a viral level, creating major social buzz on Instagram (Check her out here: @monabaltazar)! Described as, “a unique design for my clientele, creating shapes that fit their texture/growth/curl pattern, hair density and overall style,” this personalized approach to hairdressing is the only way to do it for an artist like Mona Baltazar!

Mona’s desire to always keep her hands creating comes from her desire to keep her mind challenged, finding inspiration in all kinds of expressive outlets. With such a high level of devotion to the intersection of innovation and individuality, we only expect great creation in Mona’s future.

Want to know more? Check out her current faves below!

Favorites:

Food: Filipino Food

Place to visit: Visiting my family in California  

Motto: “Never let someone else define you."

Hair product: Currently loving Nioxin Rejuvenating Elixir

[wellaeducation]

Meet Your 2016 #NATVA Finalists!

We may wear all black, but you know we only connect with the most colorful of minds – that’s why our 2016 #NATVA finalists have personalities as big as their talent!

And because you also know we always share the love, we’ll be presenting you each and everyone of our finalists in the days leading up to #NATVA!

Meet Jade Deveraturda of Umbrella Salon, a Color Vision Finalist:

Full of life and vision, but a full believer in ‘patience is key,’ Jade knows that TrendVision is just the start for him.

“Being an NATVA finalist to me means there is no turning back now.”

So what got him here to the #NATVA stage? He gives credit to his “loving and loyal clients,” noting, “They have challenged me to do new things to step out of my comfort zone.”

Started from the bottom (at just sixteen years old!) and now he’s here. We expect to see much more of Jade in the future.

Alice Saroyan of Salon Platinum Black, a Creative Vision Finalist:

“If your dreams don’t scare you, they’re not big enough.” - the life mantra of this artist with ambition as contagious as her smile!

As a mentee of Wella’s own Michael Haase and an artist who’s happiest helping, we had to ask - what sparked creative genius for her #NATVA entry this year?

“I’m very inspired by ornate European architecture and patterns found in the faberge egg.” 

Clearly her dreams span the world. 

Stay tuned - we’ll be introducing each of our NATVA finalists until we’re LIVE on July 25th. 

[wellaeducation]

A Signature for Everyone’s Style

As some trends catch fire and others fizzle, one thing stays the same – many leave the salon with a similar look. Well, unless you just got up from Tiffany’s chair…

Wella Stylist and two-time Trend-Vision Finalist, Tiffany Bernard has a unique philosophy, one inspired by her inexplicable drive and limitless creativity.

She specializes in giving her clients signature looks without changing who they really are. And she starts by being frank.

“Honestly, I’m just real. I don’t try to sugarcoat anything behind the chair.”

She talks clients through their inspiration and then makes sure they can maintain it. If the answer isn’t heck yes, she’ll find an alternative catered specifically to them.

So how did the custom “Tiffany treatment” come to be? After beginning beauty school in 2009 at Citrus College Cosmetology in Glendora, CA, Tiffany started her exercise in over-achievement. She began work as a stylist assistant before graduation, and soon after, she became a Wella MCE (Master Color Expert) grad, noting that “MCE has been the best investment” she’s made for her career.

Between booking all her clients, customizing their individual looks and even mentoring an assistant, it’s a wonder she finds time away from the chair, let alone the time to inspire as a frequent blogger!

“Blogging is a platform to inspire individuals… I want readers to not only be inspired about hair, but to know that it is possible to do anything you want to do—even when you feel you don’t have time.”

And this girl doesn’t just talk the talk. Expressing her love for traveling, she’s started booking trips and sharing them through her blog. “Last year… I wrote down all the places I want to see and why. Even if it’s just to take that one picture for Instagram. Haha.”

All jokes aside, Tiffany loves social media. Can you keep a secret? She wants to develop her own geo-filter (shhhhhh!) for her favorite social media platform, Snapchat!

We can only imagine the other ideas this stylist is brewing, both in the chair and out of the chair.

Driven and creative, Tiffany is moving at the speed of light. So fast the trends can’t keep up with HER.