Mitzi's Corner

ColorProof was featured in the February issue of American Salon Magazine. Beginning March, 2012,  this great line of products will be available at Salon Service Group! ColorProof is the next generation color care with revolutionary ingredient technology developed by Jim Markham, the pioneer of luxury color care! 100% vegan, 100% gluten-free, and 100% paraben-free.

January and February are traditionally slow times in the salon, but by using your down time smartly, you can add new clientele and fill your appointment books.

Use Social Networks
Just like any other form of marketing, your social networks like Facebook, Twitter and Google+ can help drive traffic to your business.

Think outside of the box
If you post specials on social media, supplement your advertisements with quality information. Give your audience a reason to follow!  Share photos, how-to videos, specials and openings to your audience to develop an interactive relationship. Offer a Facebook only special and allow people to share it with their friends for extra incentive.

Post Specials Online
Use your city’s local website, news calendar, and Craigslist to post your openings, specials or news releases.

Email Specials
Email is still a relevant form of communication! Get your list together and send them your specials, reminder of your openings or a coupon just for being an email subscriber. Make sure you follow the Canned-Spam Act rules, though. If you have a large list, instead of using your email server, use a mail manager. Mailchimp is free for lists under 1,000 and offers several templates.

Pick up the phone
Take out your client cards and give them a call. A personal invitation will not only make them feel special, but will serve as a top-of-mind reminder of your services.

Advertise Offline
The viral nature of social networks is a basic Word of Mouth concept. Offer a referral program or punch cards to repeat customers.

Go Outside the Salon
Develop affiliate relationships with other businesses, and create specials just for them!  Stop by your local fitness facility and speak with the manager about a special just for their clients.

Education
Take some extra time to attend continuing cosmetology classes during this time of year. The new techniques and inspiration can push you to the next level of your career!

Take advantage of Distributor Retail Specials
Align your specials with product specials from your distributor. Free product, discounts and special package offers are great opportunities to extend your service offering.

Whatever you do, remember to use your time wisely. Think strategically and you will quickly fill your salon chairs, bringing in quality new clients! If you’re looking for more new and unique marketing ideas, contact a Salon Service Group salon partner today.

Your clients come to you seeking the ultimate in beauty and style, and you’ve established the bar for relaxation by setting the stage with your salon decor. Gorgeous interior decorating is a substantial part of the experience, but let’s not forget the extras! Enhancing your client’s total salon experience is a must in developing repeat business.

Uniformity
Though you don’t want to stifle creativity of your stylists, there’s no mistaking that uniformity is pleasing to the eye. Whether you choose an all black dress code or a more relaxed open policy, the icing on the cake is the stylist apron. Your salon culture and favorite brand can help you choose the right apron for yourself or your stylists.

Comfort
Dust off your rose colored glasses for just a moment and take a seat in your waiting area. Too much visual stimulation from excessive catalogs or magazines, uncomfortable seating and harsh lighting can ruin a client’s experience. A set of throw-pillows, a vase of flowers and lower wattage bulbs are simple, inexpensive additions that will help relax your client so he or she will relax and enjoy your services. Place retail products and signage so that it is inviting and intriguing.

Privacy
A full salon is what we hope for every day, so privacy can be hard to offer a client. As an alternate solution, offer the powder room (decorated, softly lit and without clutter) as a place where he or she can don a robe, place bags or simply freshen up before sitting in the chair.

VIP Treatment
When the client is finally seated in your chair for pampering,  make sure the cape you have is comfortable. When you put the cape on, approach him or her from the side and slide the cape on rather than flinging it over the head. Offer a drink from your water bar, and take a moment to consult the client about his or her needs.

First impressions are lasting, so make your clients’ experience the most comfortable possible. If you’re looking for the best salon products, capes, and aprons, visit salonservicegroup.com today!

You’re a trendsetter stylist with mad color skills as varied as the hues in the color wheel. Your only limitation to haircolor is your imagination. From beauty and grace to avant-garde and uniquely you, “Project Groupie: Show Us Your Color” is just the contest for you!

When you wield color lines like Keune, Alfaparf Milano and Paul Mitchell as your weapon of choice, you fashion creatively varied customized colors, warm reds and platinum blondes, white hot violets, and deep mahogany browns.

Choose your color arsenal and shoot for the stars with Salon Service Group’s 2012 Project Groupie. Create your masterpiece and submit the blah before and creative after images of your model including front, side and back shots to mdavis@salonservicegroup.com to enter.

A panel of industry leaders will choose the crème de la crème, three of the top color submissions chosen on overall creativity and execution, composition and style. 1st, 2nd and 3rd place will be featured in the Groupie and online. Honorable mentions and contestant submissions will be available online at contest close.

The first-place model shot will be on the cover of Salon Service Group’s May/June Groupie. Not to mention, you will get the recognition you deserve, share your unique methodology and showcase your salon! With a distribution reach of nearly 15,000 (12,000 print and 3,000 online), your work is sure to get noticed.

If you have what it takes to show the world what color looks like through your sight, submit your portfolio piece of color spectacular before March 15, 2012. Winners will be notified on March 20, then you can anxiously await the publication of the May/June Groupie.

Happy Coloring!

The Particulars:
    •    Images must be high-res (300 dpi)
    •    Must use a Salon Service Group brand of color and/or styling products
    •    If chosen, must submit the process or technique used for finished look
    •    Each stylist may submit up to two (2) entries
    •    Send pictures with contact information to mdavis@salonservicegroup.com *

*Entries may also be mailed to: Salon Service Group; Attn: Project Groupie; 1859 W. Arbor St;, Springfield, MO 65807

See photos from 2011 Project Groupie: Red Carpet Edition

One of the things that holds back careers and salons is the power of myth. It is natural and human to be thwarted by beliefs that when looked at honestly, turn out to be entirely false.

One big example is the myth that you have to ‘push’, ‘sell’, or ‘pressure’ clients into product purchases, and that a strong retail culture ‘turns off’ clients. Interestingly, when we look at our industry, what we notice is that strong retail salons are the salons that have the fullest books, the best prices for services, the most cohesive teams, and world-class education programs. If the myth was true, those salons would be empty!!

 Inspired retail is the opposite of ‘push’ and ‘sell’. It is founded on care, attention, proffessional observation, and client education. In other words…Service! If we care, we offer every client Information (about what we have chosen to use), Choice (shampoo, conditioner, and styling aids), and a helpful Reminder (products on desk). As hairdressers, every part of what we do can be alive, interesting, creative, and fun. We are lucky that way.

*Shared with permission by Peter T. of Peter Thomas Hair, Peter Thomas Academy

When clients come in for a service, it’s our job to give them the best experience possible. A huge part of that experience is after-service retail (the added revenue is an added benefit, too). Step into the mind of your retail customers and learn the top 5 reasons your retail sales are low.

1. What’s This?
Though you work with the products day in and day out, your clients may have never heard of them.

NEW PRODUCT OR INTRODUCTORY SERVICE TIP:
Take a moment to share with your clients information about new products (read more here about consultation), or introduce special treatments by offering them a take-home sample.  They’ll feel special you took the time to explain the new product and remember you for caring enough to share a sample.

2. Nobody Wants It, and I Don’t Either
Brand new product displays are intimidating. Consumers wonder, “Should I buy it? No one else has yet.”

COUNTER DISPLAY TIP:
    When using a counter display, pull one or two products out of the slots from the center of the display. This will make consumers more comfortable with the product.

3. Seriously, Do They Not Own a Computer?
Though handwritten signs can be nostalgic, more often than not, they are seen as unprofessional. Take a few moments to type up a sign using a template from your favorite program.

SIGNAGE TIP:
    Salon Service Group provides free professional marketing material including product-specific shelf talkers, mirror talkers and posters. Ask your salon partner today for more information.

4. It Must Be Expensive
Consumers are hesitant to pick up a product if they are unsure of its price. Instead of asking, they will silently sit in wonder.

PRICING TIP:
    Use shelf talkers to identify the price of the product. For added convenience, clearly mark the price of your product on the bottom or near the UPC Code.

5. There Must Be Something Wrong with It
If you’re wondering why that last, lone styling product just won’t leave your salon, now you know why. 

LAST PRODUCT TIP:
    If you have leftover product and aren’t planning on restocking, add it to the backbar, offer it on a clearance shelf at a reduced price, or give it as a gift.

6. Doesn’t Look Like Much…

You don’t have to have a fully-stocked inventory to have a strong retail presence.

SALON RETAIL TIP:
    Make your shelves appear fuller by spacing items close together. If you don’t have a huge inventory, no problem. Simply add shelf-talkers on empty spaces.


Hair product retail sales start with the consultation, but product presentation plays a huge part in influencing customer purchases. Take a few moments to step into the mind of your consumers, and watch the products start to fly off the shelves!

http://salonservicegroup.com/beyond-the-chair-fall-2011.php#Retail

Thank you! I’m a stylist with Salon Service Group (beauty supply distributor). I love your hair, make-up and style photos. You’ve got an eye for fashion and great taste!

Stylists, everywhere I look, people are clamoring over the Color.Bug and trying to find where to buy it! If you haven’t added this fun, fab product to your retail arsenal, it’s time you do!

lorebeth0719:

I supah love the shade of the hair. The model actually uses a coloured pink hair shadow by Kevin. Murphy. This is a one night only hair shadow & can be rinsed with water!! This is available in orange, pink and purple. I just wonder, where can i buy this product. :(

Pretty isn’t it?

The Holiday Season means parties, up-dos, color touch-ups and everything in-between. It’s a crazy time of year to be a stylist, and sometimes the last thing we think about in the hustle and bustle of it all is our own holiday spirit!

Whether you’re just finishing up or just getting started, Salon Service Group has giftables for just about everyone on your holiday list.

Stocking Stuffers:  Kevin.Murphy’s Color.Bug is great for any age, for that hint of color without the committment.

The Wetbrush has quickly become a Salon Service Group best-seller! It cuts through tangles, sliding through hair like a knife through butter! Add this brush to any stocking for immediate smiles.

Keratin Complex Dry Shampoo is great for teens, moms, guys and gals - With it’s great smell and easy packaging, this gift is sure to be a winner.

Smart Gifts for Him

Timmer/Clippers are this season’s hottest gift for guys. Check out this sexy Ruby Clipper/Trimmer by Andis. Corded or cordless and equipped with guards for his favorite facial hair length, this super powerful trimmer is sure to replace his *ahem* inferior one.

Great Last Minute Gifts for Gals

 Every woman wants to feel beautiful! Surprise that special lady in your life with a professional grade tool this year and she’ll think of you every time she fixes her hair! A U-Smooth iron or texturizer or a Keratin Complex Ball Dryer are ideal. On a budget? Give a flat iron mini.

Last Minute Gift Ideas for Everyone Else

Everyone loves hair products. Give one of this year’s fantastic holiday sets. Or, (if he or she’s a stylist), give a gift card to your favorite beauty supply store,  Salon Service Group!

Happy Holidays Everyone! From Mitzie, Gino and all of us at Salon Service Group.

The streets of the globe were covered with woolly, unshaven guys last month due to the phenomenon known as No Shave November.* As a stylist, I had to resist the urge to grab each guy by his scruff, whip out my trimmers and get to work. But manly men around the country have been embracing this event every year as a chance to man-up.

While I’m all up for making changes for a cause, personal style and grooming should be integrated into this annual masculine facial hair display. We can’t win them all, though, so I’d like to suggest instead a Detail December. During this month, we would encourage our bearded buds to bring in their most dense and manly facial hair for the chance to be styled and groomed professionally.

The …ahem…honor of making one of these men over from woolly mammoth to professional sheik will take a powerful clipper, though. The new Andis Ruby Trimmer & Clipper will power through the toughest beard (Zach Galifianakis, anyone?). Plus, with its optional cordless functionality, you can move with ease.

The Andis family of trimmers is the go-to choice for any industry professional and are versatile enough for beards, scalp designs and seriously close cuts. Other great Andis options include the Lola (a pint-sized package with mega performance) and the CCX Adjustable Blade Clipper (great for fades and every-day usage).

So, in preparation for Detail December (or whenever you’re ready for a clipper/trimmer upgrade), remember Salon Service Group has the tools you need for even your most challenging clientele.

*The origins of No Shave November are debatable, but it was first logged on the Urban Dictionary in 2008 as “The month of November in which you don’t shave any hair of your body but instead you grow more bestial, brutish, and manly.” It’s not-so-distant cousin, “Movember” originated in Australia in 1999 as the man’s answer to October’s Breast Cancer Awareness month. Movember’s cause was to bring attention to men’s medical issues like prostate cancer.

What stimulates your creativity?

For some, it’s nature. Others rely on art or celebrity fashion.

When you begin drifting through each day as if it were just another day, it’s time to change!

Re-embrace your passion for hair.

It starts with YOU!

• Step back and take a look at yourself in the mirror. Are you embracing a new look? Show your clients you know fashion by trying something new on yourself!
• Take yourself seriously, and others will as well. You’re the design expert!
• Set yourself apart from the mundane. Do something you wouldn’t normally do.
• Enhance what you’ve got. What are your strongest skills?
• Share your knowledge, skill and passion. Educate. Evolve. Embrace.

When you love what you do, your work will show it!

As a stylist, shears are our tools of the trade, similar to the handyman’s hammer or the artist’s pencil. While in cosmetology school, you more than likely received a scissors kit that performed good for learning and practicing, but which is ill suited for use after graduation. Shears are an investment for your profession that takes careful consideration, and the following three basic factors can help you choose the best shears to last you throughout your career.

1) Professional Quality
Shears should literally melt through the hair, but lower quality haircutting tools will snag and pull, creating uneven cuts and jagged edges. The best professional grade haircutting scissor are hand-forged and have a quality, sharp edge.

Any scissor you purchase should be hollow ground and concave on the inner surface of the blade. Hollow ground shears feature a characteristic concave, beveled edge along the cutting edge of the shear. The hallmark of concave blades is its small wedge with concave sides which is extremely sharp and very easy to care for.

2) Service Program
If you choose your shears carefully and care for them properly, they will serve you in comfort for many years. Quality, professional shear manufacturers stand by their product with sharpening, replacement and maintenance programs. If you’re unsure of your shear’s service program, visit your salon partner or beauty supply store for more information. Of course, it’s up to us to the hairstylist to properly maintain their shears between service.

3) Price and Budget
Though top-of-the line shears are on every stylists’ wish list, they may not be budget friendly, especially if you’re just starting out. Thankfully, most quality shear manufacturers have levels of scissors for any budget, varying from best quality to midline and basic. Be aware, though, that not all shears are designed the same. Stamped shears are the most inexpensive and are not usually hollow-ground. They are not as sharp and have a lot of drag on the blade. Cast scissors do not hold an edge as long as a forged shear and are also available at a lower price point.

Professional shears influence a stylist’s physical, mental, and financial well being and are an important long-term investment in a stylist’s career. Salon Service Group is committed to offering independently owned, high quality scissors at affordable prices. We offer Hikari and Silkcut shears as well as demo kits so you can find the right tool for you. Visit your nearest Salon Service Group Store or contact your salon partner today to try out your professional shears today.

As hair stylists, we know the value of a professional hair dryer. Higher wattage and professional grade motors make our favorite dryers more powerful and longer lasting. All professional dryers aren’t created equally, though. Qualities like motor type, wattage, technology, features and design are differentiators in choosing the right dryer depending on our needs.

Wattage and Motor

The dryer’s motor can be either AC (Alternating Current) or DC (Direct Current). AC dryers are generally larger and heavier, but more durable and quieter. DC motors are smaller and lighter and have a stronger air flow, but tend to wear out more quickly than their AC counterparts. Wattage refers to the power supplied to the heating element. Higher wattage dryers are capable of generating more heat.

Technology and Material

Most professional hair dryers come with ionic technology which allows for less frizz and static electricity build-up for smoother, sleeker hair. Ceramic material and crushed tourmaline creates more ions and the ideal heat flow.

Features and Settings

Dryers with variable heat settings and speeds allow for more versatility in styling. Higher settings allow for faster drying where lower settings give precision styling when the hair is 80% dry. The cool shot button freezes and sets a style.

Professional Hair Dryer Comparison Chart

_________________________________________________________________________________

Moroccanoil Professional Series Dryer

Wattage/Motor 1800 Watt/ AC
Features

• Nano Ion: Detoxifies hair, Eliminates frizz, Maximizes shine.
• Ceramic Tourmaline: Reduces drying time, Allows hair to absorb moisture.

Settings  Expert Styling Control: 3 heat settings, 2 speeds

Design 2.0 lbs; Curved Handle with intuitive button placement

_________________________________________________________________________________

Paul Mitchell Express Ion Turbolight

Wattage/Motor1875 Watt/AC motor

Features

• Negative ion and far infrared technology
• New conditioning NanoPearls in barrel

Settings 3 temperatures/2 speed settings and a self-locking cool shot button

Design 2.85 lbs; Sleek Exterior, rounded handle

_________________________________________________________________________________

Paul Mitchell Express Ion

Wattage/Motor 1,500-watt/DC motor
Features

• Exclusive Express Ion Complex™—the most advanced ionic technology available

Settings 3 temperatures/2 speed settings and a self-locking cool shot button

Design 2.3 lbs; Sleek Black Exterior, angled handle

_________________________________________________________________________________

Paul Mitchell Express Ion Hotlight

Wattage/Motor 1400-watt/DC motor

Features

• Professional high heat settings for faster drying.

Settings 2 temperatures/2 speed settings; cool shot button

Design 2.25 lbs; Sleek Pearl Exterior, curved handle

_________________________________________________________________________________

Keratin Ceramic Ball Dryer

Wattage/Motor 1875 watts/AC motor

Features

• Ion Switch Generator controls heating and cooling levels
• Ceramic technology

Settings 2 Speeds, 3 Heat Settings; Cold shot button

Design 1.20 lbs; Rounded, compact body with curved ergonamic handle

You can use the key qualities of each professional dryer guide you in your selection. If you still need help, let Salon Service Group help you determine the best dryer for your unique styling needs. Our knowledgeable salon partners will work with you to find the best dryer for in-salon use or for your retail needs.

As stylists, we always recommend professional styling products for our clients. But are we missing the mark when it comes suggesting the tools needed to recreate in-salon looks? Share with your clients the best way to keep hair looking silky smooth between visits with a professional grade flat iron. Not only will they appreciate the educational opportunity, but you can benefit from the additional retail sales.

Here are a few additional ways you can go about encouraging sales and use of salon quality flat irons:

1. Simply talk with your clients about the benefits of the tools while styling their hair. Your experience speaks volumes when it comes to what type of tools are best. With its adjustable temperature and smooth, titanium-coated plates, an iron like the U-Smooth for most every hair type. Or, for shorter hair and limited budgets, suggest a mini iron.
2. Explain the facts about inexpensive flat irons: they burn the hair and barely straighten. Cheaply made ceramic plates crack after time and pull the hair. Besides the damaging effects, with professional grade hair straighteners, it takes just moments to create a smooth, sleek look that would be impossible with a low-grade retail iron. 
3. Just as you would verbally share solutions to your clients, make sure you have marketing material and shelf placement that will open the door to conversation and sales. Salon Service Group offers free marketing material both online and through salon partners. Ask your salon partner or customer service representative today about shelf talkers, mirror talkers and wall posters, then place the visuals at opportune locations throughout your salon. 
4. Finally, offer a thermal styling techniques class to your clients and community. Many people don’t understand the value of high grade tools or that flat irons are a universal styling tool that can smooth and curl. Share how they can use the right tool to easily recreate an eye-catching hairstyle quickly with the right tools and techniques.

When armed with a fitting instrument and the right kind of techniques, your clients will enjoy hairstyling between visits. Plus, you will generate more tool sales,  and will avoid having to trim away dead, damaged hair next time your client visits. Visit our iStore for more great professional hair products and tools strictly for the salon professional.

Are 50s Hairstyles going to be the new hair trend?

I ran into Rob Govero, a hairdresser friend of mine.  As we chatted, I remarked about his infamous Blow Out Styles. I thought to myself, “I tell people about this guy’s skills with a round brush & blowdryer, why don’t I actually experience it first hand?  We instantly booked an appointment with his iPhone where he collected all my contact info, and I was able to commit on the spot.

BLOWOUT APPT:  He greets me with a huge smile, thanking me for visiting his new space.  As he takes me on a brief tour, his passion is evident and the energy feels amazing in the salon! The décor is nice, but not the main focus.  Instead, his salon showcases efficient workspaces for the stylists and business.

We talk about his goals, challenges, the staff dynamic and how he juggles it all.  I found his approach with his team to be refreshing:  He strives to do what’s best for the salon while keeping in mind each individual’s perspective for happiness. For instance, when Rob took over this business, there was a young stylist with an edgy image, something not common for the area.

Rob noticed the stylist’s difficulty building his clientele and decided to recommend a change for this young stylist:  A change in salons!  Not too many rental-salon owners are willing lose the steady rent check, but Rob knew moving to a more trendy spot was best for this stylist to grow and become the best hairdresser he could be.  In turn, the space was filled by a stylist who fits the area’s image. Rob’s willingness to risk promoted profit for the business. Plus, he gained the trust of his employees with his honesty!

You’re about to meet a man who has something to share with you:  a bit of inspiration, a touch of humor and a whole lot of love for Hairdressing!

Welcome to Interview With a Hairdresser…

HAIRDRESSER: Robert Govero

SALON NAME: Robert Govero for Hair

WEBSITE: robertgoveroforhair.com

Do you have a ‘StageName’ or Professional Nickname? 

Nothing that can be published!  Haha!  Nope- just Robert Govero, or Rob

How many years have you been in the industry? 

I started in 1988, so 23 years.

 Why did you choose to be a Hairdresser?

I had a scholarship to Washington University for Engineering and Dance. I was dancing professionally at the time. My stepmother insisted I come to cosmetology school one day and I saw a lot of hot girls my age. I didn’t look back!  I figured I would learn to do hair and work my way through college, but I ended up liking hair too much and stayed with it.

What inspires your creativity? What makes you feel connected to your passion?

The love for what I think is beautiful inspires me, and the art, creativity, and freedom keeps me going. I thrive on knowing that I’ve inspired my clients to feel and look sexy through the work that I do. Teaching other stylists and our clients how to do hair makes me feel more connected to my passion. It makes me reconnect to the why and how I do what I do- instead of acting on auto pilot.

What do you do really well?  Tell me your intuitive talents or what comes naturally to you…and how does this compliment your hair artistry and/or business sense?

I read my clients very well, and I’m able to convey back to them what they are unable to put it into words.  I am good at picking up on non-verbal cues, understanding their lifestyle and routines, and being able to show them how to replicate what I do for them in the salon. I aim to share this knowledge with other hairstylists.  I feel I have a comprehensive approach due to my background in photography, makeup, chemistry, and hair. But having said all that, I fell I am an excellent colorist, awesome scissor-flipping haircutter, but I know I am particularly known for my styling, and my mad round brush blowout skills!

Who are YOU? (Outside of the title of Hairdresser)

Above all I’m a dad. I absolutely love my two boys, and I hope to one day have a daughter! But, I am also an awesome dancer and social butterfly as well!  Outside of that, I’m still paying a licensed professional to figure the rest out.

 What would you be or do if you were not a Hairdresser?

I would be either a professional dancer or a particle physicist.  I love to dance and I love sub-atomic theory!  Maybe a motivational speaker or a life coach as well?? Hmmmmmmm?           

 How important is Education beyond your initial schooling?  What does it provide for yourself and your clients?

Education is extremely important. I believe that as soon as you think you know everything you might as well quit. The additional education provides constant motivation and inspiration for myself. As for my clients, I feel that they benefit by me keeping up with changing trends and I in turn offer new trends to them.  If you’re not constantly improving your knowledge and the way you do things, why would anybody give you more money or new clients seek you out from the rest?

What advice do you have for Students?

Be willing to work hard and not feel entitled.  Take initiative and responsibility for building your business. Too many new stylists want a high starting salary with all kinds of perks and offer nothing in return but a warm body.  Have a secondary job that can not only give you extra money to live on while you build your book, but an opportunity to promote yourself and hand out business cards.  Listen as much as possible and take in as much knowledge as you can.  If your cup is already full, you have no room for new information or perspectives that can help you grow as a person and a stylist. Come into each new experience ready to learn, to take in more and then put your own flare on it!

What advice do you have for fellow Hairdressers?

Continue to take pride in your work and to embrace technology. Do whatever it takes to succeed. Whether you think you can or can’t, either way, you are right!  I heard a great speaker in this industry say most recently, “Waiting for things to change before you make a change is like looking in the mirror and waiting for your reflection to move before you do!”

Describe your ideal client- Age, Lifestyle, Personality

My ideal client is an attractive 20-50 year old female, with a great sense of humor, who invests in maintaining their image.  In other words, women with money that want to look good and don’t mind a little harmless flirting.

What advice do you have for your clients that will allow you to give the best service as their personal haircare professional?

Be totally honest with the amount of time, energy, and money they plan to spend on your hair.  If they are not honest, they are doing themselves a disservice and not allowing me to do the best for them and their lifestyle. It also helps if they come in with an open mind!  It’s hair, not brain surgery!

 What do you think is missing in most salon environments? 

I feel that most salons have lost their sense of customer service and technology.  The industry worked very hard to get up to a level of professionalism and has since become very casual. I feel that hair dressing and true styling has been lost since flat irons have become so popular and straight hair was in for so long.  Many of the newer stylists have very weak styling skills. This reflects in their ability to translate a haircut into a style. I always believe that if you’re an average hairstylist but really know how to style hair while showing the client how to do it, you will be more successful and have many more referrals than a great haircutter who cannot translate the style to the client. I feel charging separate for the blow-dry/style has created a lot of haircutters with no styling skills!

What kind of marketing or self-promotion do you do?

I use social media, website traffic, annual referral contests, handing out cards and charity events! We cross promote with popular restaurants in the area which provides exposure and great networking opportunities.  I am really good at handing out cards and getting clients to come in!  I’m also on the board of a great charity. This helps greatly with networking and gives me the opportunity to give back to the community!  It’s a win-win!

What professional product or tool can you not live without?

My Hikari 6” and my Babyliss Ferrari Blow-dryer and Sportnet #854 round brushes!  I also like my Morrocanoil products!

If you could invent/create a new product or tool for the salon industry- what would it be?  

Cordless blow-dryers or styling chairs with no gaps between the legs and backs of the chairs- the cords are always getting caught!  My software and mobile apps ideas have already been created.

Do you have a funny/embarrassing/shocking salon moment to share?

When I first was in the industry and very green, I pulled a frosting cap off a customer’s head and hair was still on the cap! UGH!  There was also the time I cut a tip of a client’s ear off and the tip of my finger!  Those were both bad times!   I missed my cutting stool once and hit the floor hard!  That was embarrassing!  I’ve been pretty good the last 5 years or so though!  (fingers crossed J)

I had a blast getting to know Rob The Hairdresser more.  I got that beautiful blowout I’d been telling everyone about, and I’m left feeling inspired and excited to share his story with all of you.

CHEERS TO YOUR SUCCESS! -RobynV

Hairstylist Dee Dagher shares three fun, easy ways to add some flair to your hair—just like the celebs!

Above: Beyoncé (CP Images); Selena Gomez (Getty Images); and Avril Lavigne (Reuters).

Beyoncé’s Bling

Hair Bling is a great way to temporarily add some sparkle to your hair for a special occasion. The strands are made from silk and tied onto your hair with a slipknot. $10 for 150 strands

Tip: This look is all about understated sparkle, so remember: A few strands go a long way! Add a dot of glue as you knot the hair tinsel for long-lasting hold (up to four weeks!).

(A special thanks to London Hair Studio and Fusion Hair Studio for providing the hair bling for this segment on the show.)

Selena’s Sexy Feathers

No longer just for the boho set, this look is perfect for anyone looking to have some casual fun with their hair. Attaching the feathers is best left to the pros, who have the proper tools and know-how to do the job. From $10 to 25 per feather, depending on size.

Tip: Once the feathers are in place, don’t be afraid to work with them. They can be washed and styled just like real hair. You can even curl them!

Avril’s Ombré Locks

Hair colour is nothing new. What is new is how easy it is to put on and take off! Kevin Murphy’s new Color.Bug is like makeup for your hair. Add vibrant highlights in just a few swipes with no committment: The colour shampoos right out! $32, available in pink, purple and orange.

Tip: We’ve heard the term used over and over again in fashion and design, and now ombré has gone to our heads…literally. Concentrate colour at the tips of your hair and let it slowly fade as it approaches your roots.

Keratin Complex’s Express Blow Out is a lighter take on their trademark Keratin Complex Treatment. Blow Out leaves hair frizz-free for up to six weeks and is a perfect service add-on to color, cut or style. The service can be performed in just one hour, and your clients can wash their hair just eight hours post-treatment.

Watch this video to learn how to perform the Keratin Blow Out InSalon Service or visit http://salonservicegroup.com/keratin-blowout.php to download step-by-step instructions.

As a salon professional, you affect your clients at their core! You boost their self-esteem, serve as a listening ear and help them release stress through pampering and spa treatments. This can be life-changing for them, and with the right service offering can create a positive life-change for you as well!

If you offer Keratin Complex treatments in your salon, you know what I’m talking about. These treatments give manageability to frizzy, course hair, renewing the life of the hair. Clients refer to Keratin Complex Smoothing Therapy as “life changing,” giving it a softer, silkier feel that everyone raves about. Read for yourself:

“Absolutely worth the money…With the Keratin treatment my hair felt polished and I felt more put together. My appearance felt neater (even if I was in workout clothes). Wearing a ponytail seemed smoother and not like a rabbit’s bottom. ”

“I can actually blow-dry  my hair with ease and no flat iron
is necessary, my hair looks and feels so healthy, this service
has changed my life!”

This revolutionary smoothing system infuses Keratin deep into the hair cuticle, eliminating up to ninety-five percent of frizz and curl, leaving the hair smooth, shiny and luxurious. Results typically last 3 to 5 months, depending on hair type. To administer this treatment, stylists must be certified through a Keratin Complex educator or distributor.

If you’re a salon interested in Keratin Treatments but want to test-drive the results, Keratin offers two less permanent options:  Infusion and Blow Out.

Infusion is a one-day wash-in, wash-out smoother that can be used at home. It’s perfect for the curly-haired client wanting the straightening power of Keratin Complex, but just for a day.

Another option is the Keratin Complex Blow Out, which is administered in the salon, but lasts half as long as the more intensive Keratin Complex Treatment.  This therapy is at a lower price-point, so clients leery of the process can try the staying power, and your salon will love the results. Use this as a style setter, add the Blow Out service to color services or piggy-back this on a cut and bring your clients back in after six weeks for more!

Whether you’re interested in semi-permanent solutions or a straight day option for your clients, Salon Service Group has Keratin Complex and continuing education opportunities for you. Salon Service Group is a beauty supply provider for salon professionals and a Keratin Complex distributor for Missouri (MO), Oklahoma (OK), Arkansas (AR), Tennessee (TN), Kentucky (KY), Minnesota (MN), Wisconsin (WI), Nebraska (NE), Iowa (IA) and parts of Indiana (IN) and Illinois (IL).

A master colorist once said, “A true haircolor technician can create a masterpiece from any haircolor line.” But did you know most salon professionals only use 6 shades of color? We say don’t limit yourself! Take charge of your color options, create magic and evolve into a Color Master with top-of-the-line haircolor chemistry from independent lines like Keune, Alfaparf Milano and Paul Mitchell.

KEUNE
A true color powerhouse, KEUNE has cornered the market on advanced color chemistry. This line includes patented ingredients that lock in color, add shine and protect from UV damage. Keune’s Infinity Red Technology retains in hair up to 25% longer than any other lines in the market today. With Keune Red Infinity, hair looks as good on day 40 as others do on day 20!

If these amazing features aren’t enough to get you excited, consider the cost factor. With Keune’s cost per application at 8-10% less than other lines, your salon can automatically cut inventory costs by 2/3. When a salon commits to partnering with Keune, they can count on adding 10% to their bottom line within a year!

ALFAPARF MILANO
Alfaparf Milano color gives absolute reliability and high-quality product performance to the best hairdressers and colorists everywhere. An icon in the haircosmetics industry, Alfaparf color lines offer an endless choice of shades and reflections with the highest quality ingredients. Alfaparf’s technical prowess equals higher performance in the salon.
Born of perfect balance of fashion and formula, Alfaparf starts with the couture fashion and translates it into wearable fashion at the salon level. They analyze what’s happening on the runways in Milan from fashion and design to architecture and art, giving the colorist and salon professionals the opportunity to get involved in a constant flow of information and ideas.

PAUL MITCHELL
Paul Mitchell is known the world over as a luxury haircare line with an affordable price. Its professional line of products offers the same reliability as its professional hair care products. Ease of use and economical, Paul Mitchell color lines create warm, true-to-base color for any level of user. With its natural conditioners, Paul Mitchell color provides long-lasting, healthy color with simple application and formulations for the salon professional.

Shiny, sensational color is the hallmark of fabulous hair. Create your masterpiece with your color palette from one of these fabulous color lines. If you’re ready to break out of your box and learn more about Keune, Alfaparf Milano or Paul Mitchell, contact a salon partner today. Salon Service Group is a beauty supply provider with its distribution area including Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Iowa and parts of Indiana and Illinois. Visit our website to learn more!