Beauty, Business, Hair Care, health and wellness, That girl in the red coat, Uncategorized, Women

The Color Therapist is in

January 20, 2015 That Girl in the Red Coat 1 Comment

We’ve all been there. We have all been standing in our bathroom, looking in the mirror, brush in hand or caught in hair thinking “What happened to my hair?”. In the age of color, chemical straightening and flat irons, our poor tresses are over worked, stressed and damaged. Before you make a call to the nearest Salon and ask if they offer a bereavement rate for the loss of your beloved locks, take a breath. Another. The Color Therapist is in and it’s name is Joico Kpak Color Therapy.

Many people are familiar with Joico Kpak – a FAB! product in it’s own right. Let me introduce you to Joico Kpak Color Therapy. The magic behind Kpak Color Therapy is the Quadrabond Peptide Complex. This complex acts as a multi-tasker – attaches to damaged strands, repelling external moisture that robs the hair of color all the while rebuilding the hair from the inside out. The line is formulated for all hair types – from fine to coarse, straight to curly. The line consists of four products – shampoo, conditioner, oil and the newest addition, dry oil spray.

Kpak Color Therapy Shampoo – a gentle, lightweight formula that doubles the life of hair color vibrancy and longevity. It preserves and protects your hair from further damage. * GREAT for stressed hair -double processed or lifted more than 2 levels.

Kpak Color Therapy Conditioner – a lightweight conditioner that really packs a punch. It hydrates and repairs. Keratin and silicone lock in moisture and balance the moisture level while sealing the hair’s cuticle and adds shine.

Kpak Color Therapy Restorative Oil – I have to admit, one of my favorites. A lightweight oil that heals damaged strands while adding moisture, strength, shine and softness. It can be applied to damp or dry hair. *No brassy effect – perfect for blondes

Kpak Color Therapy Dry Oil Spray – the newest addition to the Kpak Color Therapy family. This gem seals the hair’s outer layer to create a protective shield against color fade and moisture loss and can tame flyaways. Formulated for all hair types, color safe, color safe for blondes *no brassy residue. To be used on dry hair once your style is achieved.

Kpak Revitaluxe – although this product is not part of the Kpak Color Therapy family – it is a welcome addition. This conditioning treatment instantly repairs years of damage, doubles resistance to future breakage and protects against color fade by 94%! It is formulated for all hair types and should be applied to freshly washed hair and left on for a full 5 minutes for best results.

Yes, Ladies and Gents, the Color Therapist is in.

Beauty, Business, Hair Care, health and wellness, That girl in the red coat, Uncategorized, Women

Fine and FAB! finds – That Girl in the Red Coat approved

December 8, 2014 That Girl in the Red Coat 1 Comment

As you know, yours truly has fine hair, lots of it, but fine none the less. For many years I thought I had thick hair, so I was buying products formulated for thick hair. No wonder my hair wouldn’t hold a style or why my curls were fabulous in the bathroom but the minute I stepped outside my curls would disappear, and the only volume I could achieve was via my Walkman. (children of the 80’s, you know what I am talking about – born after 1990 – Google it). Today’s tale is for my fine haired Beauties. I have found some FAB! products for fine hair, tested on yours truly and my daughter, who has her Mother’s tresses, by yours truly.

RUSK Anti Frizz Spray

The newest addition to the RUSK family, the Styling Collection, features this lovely hairspray. It offers all day humidity resistance, a strong hold that is workable and weightless and offers color protection with a light, fresh scent. Check out their other FAB! products at http://www.rusk1.com

Sexy hair. Not familiar with this line? Well, let me introduce you. My new favorite is from their style sexy hair line. Meet 450 Headset. A thermal setting spray that locks in curls all day or keeps your flat ironed strands sleek all day. Adds shine and thermal protection up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. It has a waterless formula that offers all day humidity resistance. *it kept my girl’s curls in for 2 days. sexy hair offers products for all hair types, from straight and sleek to curly. If you are looking for volume – sexy hair may be your new best friend. Check ’em out at http://www.sexyhair.com

One of the newest members of the Joico family – HEATSET. This truly is a blowout perfecting creme. It is formulated for all hair types, yet light enough for the finest of strands. Using HEATSET while using your blow dryer can reduce breakage up to 25%. It reduces drying time, detangles, defrizzes and offers heat protection up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. *it layers well with other products, such as mousses and root boosts. It won’t get too sticky or weigh down your hair or your style.

Another new addition to the Joico family – IRONCLAD. A thermal protection spray. Use IRONCLAD *on dry hair, with your flat iron or curling iron to protect your hair from the heat of the appliance. IRONCLAD helps reduce frizz and static for up to 72 hours, adds shine and has a soft, weightless hold.

I have to admit, this gem is my new best friend. The latest addition to the Joico hairspray family. FLIPTURN offers a very strong hold factor that is still workable – you can brush through it and keep your desired style or begin again. It is a volumizing hairspray that adds shine and volume for up to 72 hours as well as thermal protection. A cool feature of this hairspray is it can be sprayed upside down, side ways or right side up without clogging the nozzle = any style can be achieved. * It smells heavenly! For more information about these FAB! Joico finds, check out http://www.joico.com

Okay…this gem doesn’t add any hold or volume, but it is sparkly, and there is always room for a little sparkle. Joico’s GOLDDUST, a glitter/shine spray. A perfect end to a perfect style. Heading out to a holiday party or just want to jazz up your grocery store attire – use Joico’s GOLDDUST and turn some heads.

Beauty, Business, Hair Care, That girl in the red coat, Uncategorized

It’s probably not the weather

November 18, 2014 That Girl in the Red Coat Leave a comment

Over the past few months, I feel as though I have been having the same conversation with different reps, Salon owners that I chat with from time to time and Stylists. Everyone says that business is slow. They all seem to be having the same problem and they all seem to have the same reasons for it. “It’s probably the weather.”. “The economy is slow.”. “It’s peak vacation season, so people are away.”. “We charge $90.00 for a color. Our clients don’t want to spend more for product.”. “My client bookings are down. I guess my clients are really busy.”. I have news for you, and you aren’t going to like it. The above excuses – yeah, I said it, excuses for the lack of business at your Salon comes down to you, your staff, your customer service, your policies and your lack of retail. Plain and simple. I say excuses because sitting around complaining about business being slow and doing nothing about it is an excuse and is lazy. *To be clear – I agree that the weather can affect sales – Mother Nature is not always our friend up here in the Great White North – a blizzard or a good ‘ol Polar Vortex will keep people at home. As for the others, well, there is always something that can be done.

I have been in the retail/customer service game for over 25 years and in our beloved industry for over 12 of those years. I know too well the struggles we can face, from product cost increases, rent increases, wage increases and competition from other Salons that offer the same services. Here’s the deal. When your Salon has procedures in place, when your staff is educated on your products and your stylists re-book and follow up with their clients and your retail shelves are stocked, your business will sustain itself, and grow. It will. *The key – you have to work at it, everyday. You have to believe in yourself and your business and what you are trying to accomplish. Being me, I have compiled a little list for you.

– Policies. I cannot stress this enough. Dress codes need to be in effect and followed. Personal calls are not for the Salon floor or the store front. Take it to the lunch room. I understand emergencies arise and a call from the school must be taken on the Salon floor. Booking your next oil change…not so much. *Remember – all your client in your chair is doing is listening and watching everything going on in the Salon…and good news travels fast….bad news travels faster.

– Make it your Salon policy to re-book every client at the end of their service. Now, I know this will not happen 100% of the time, it can happen 85% of the time – I know this because that is what our average is in our Salon. Once you explain to your client that you cannot guarantee that you won’t be booked solid 6 weeks from now, they will re-book. Let your client know they are more than welcome to cancel or reschedule if need be. In my experience, once they realize they are not indebted to that exact date, they re-book, and show up to their appointment.

– Be sure to offer a consultation to every client, new or existing. Take a minute to ask them how they are, what plans they have, if any special events are coming up. Ask them if they were thinking of changing it up or did they like their last color and style. Asking these questions makes your client feel important and that they matter. It also gives you a chance to find out what is happening in their lives – for instance, if they have a gala coming up, trying a pixie cut for the first time may not be the best idea. During a consultation you may find out about a health scare, a new medication or a new product they have been using that could affect their color service that day. Asking them “same as last time” doesn’t cut it. It doesn’t.

– Make sure your Salon is stocked with water, tea and coffee. Having a choice of milk, cream or flavored creamer, sweetener or sugar goes a long way. At our Salon, we have clients that as we are taking their coat are asking if we still have that “yummy creamer”.

– Get on Social Media. Facebook is checked before email. I update our Facebook page at least 4 times a day. It takes all of 2 minutes each time. We have gained customers and clients from our updates. I have gained new customers that drive from other cities because of the specials and the new arrival of products I have posted.

– Your Salon must retail product. It must. Before you get all “that’s a huge investment!”, calm down. I am not saying you have to have every brand and every product. You should have the products you are using in your Salon for sale to your clients. Keep 2 – 3 bottles of each product you use on your shelves, at all times. You can’t sell what you don’t have. *Think of it like this – as a stylist, would you go without having bleach at your color mixing station because “No one will probably want it”? No, you wouldn’t. The same rings true with retailing the hairspray you use at your station. Thinking for your clients instead of thinking about them is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Retailing products works. I know. I do it everyday. Once your client/customer realizes that their hair can have the same look and hold at home that they get from you, they will buy the product.

– Provide good customer service. Talk to your clients and customers. Educate them on their hair and their products. Offer free consultations, from an up-do to how to use their flat iron. I personally have helped our customers learn how to use their new flat iron or curling iron. I have been known to flip my head upside down and from side to side and mess up my own ‘do just to show them how to do their own hair, and correct a mishap with a flat iron. If your client is not happy with the product they bought, ask them to bring it in, ask them to show you how they use it, then show them how you use it. In my experience, the product is the right product, the application needed improvement.

Following policies and procedures, re-booking and following up with clients, taking the time for proper consultations, utilizing Social Media, educating your clients and your customers and retailing products and keeping the shelves stocked, your Salon will thrive. It will.

“Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right” – Henry Ford

Beauty, Business, communication, Hair Care, health and wellness, That girl in the red coat, Uncategorized, Women

Mint flavoured shoes

November 4, 2014 That Girl in the Red Coat Leave a comment

At our shop, we retail over 25 professional hair care lines, so it is no surprise to me when I have a client or customer tell me they have never heard of the particular product I am telling them about. What does surprise me is when I introduce a product or product line to a client and they respond with “They still make that? I used to love using it but…that’s an old product line, isn’t it? My stylist said it’s old and no good.”. A phrase I hear often, and quiet frankly, a phrase that baffles me. Stylists – here’s a little tip for you – if your client loves a product – NEVER tell them it’s old and no good. First of all – it’s not professional. Second, you have just insulted your client. Yes, insulted them. You have just made them feel old and stupid for using a product that they love. I am telling you this because your clients will not, they do not want to offend you or hurt your feelings. They may however, book their next appointment elsewhere.

For those familiar with my Salon Tales, you know that I take the business of beauty and customer service seriously. I believe that customer service is the cornerstone of our industry. Yeah…I said it. When proper and professional customer service is not being provided, it does not matter that you are an expert colorist and cutting expert or how many products you retail at your Salon – if your client’s opinions are being neglected or pushed aside, the only person filling your chair will be you, wondering where your clients have gone.

Everyday I have customers or clients from the Salon purchasing products. Many of the products they purchase, they purchase because they love them. They like the hold, or the shine, or sometimes they love the smell of the product. I may not think the product is the best selection for their hair care needs, but they like it. They are able to achieve the look they want at home and like the way their hair looks and feels, so I keep my mouth shut. When I am asked if there is another product I would suggest, then I offer my opinion on another product. I never, I mean never, down play their beloved product. Being me, I have compiled a little list, a “how to suggest another product without putting your foot in your mouth” list, if you will. (fitting title for today’s tale…don’t you think?…wait for it…there you go).

– when a client is looking for a new hairspray, first things first. Ask them what it is about their current hairspray they aren’t happy with. Ask them what hold factor they are looking for, if they want a little shine or frizz control. Telling them “it’s about time you changed hairspray!” – not a good idea

– when a client comes in asking for a product from a line that you deem “dated”, do not judge. It may be an old line to you, your client may have just learned about it, so it is new to her.

– when a client comes in looking for the latest and greatest product, before you sell it to them, be sure it is meant for their hair type. Selling a woman the newest curl defining cream when her hair is poker straight is unprofessional, plain and simple. Think about it, she will get home with dreams of curls just to end up locked in her bathroom with a matted mess. Trust me, I am all for making the sale – when it is done the correct way.

– if your client is misinformed about a product, take a minute to explain the proper use of the product, educate them. Flip the bottle over and show them the product description, and the directions on how to use the product, and how much to use. Take an extra minute to explain what the icons mean… the little open jar = shelf life, the bunny = cruelty free, the arrows in a circle = the packaging is recyclable. Again, telling them “you don’t know what you are doing, do you?” – not your best option.

– when a client comes in looking for a product you do not sell, DO NOT say “Oh, we don’t carry that, heard it’s crap.”. Yes, ladies and gents, many of my customers had been told that exact thing, at the Salon they used to shop at. Find out what product they are looking for, ask them what they liked about it. You would be surprised how many times a product you have on your shelves will fit the bill. …I do it everyday.

At the Salon, we help men and women look and feel better. We give them a fresh look or help them find themselves once more. We help to prepare them for their life events – graduations, weddings, births and sadly, deaths. Yes, we are in the Beauty Industry. Yes, we work in Salons. Yes, we are in the service industry, and yes, we are in the customer service industry – something we must all remember. Our customers and clients may forget the color line we use or the hairspray we suggest. They will always remember how they were treated, how they were spoken to and listened to, and how they felt. You may be an expert colorist, you may offer the greatest cut and style in town – no one will remember that if your manners and demeanor do not match your talent. Be kind. Be courteous. Our clients and customers have given us their time, the least we can do is give them and extra minute or two.

Beauty, Business, Hair Care, health and wellness, That girl in the red coat, Uncategorized, Women

Have you been DevaCurled?

October 14, 2014 That Girl in the Red Coat Leave a comment

Everyday I meet a woman, or a man who is frustrated with their hair. Their curly hair. They have tried every product. They have a closet full of creams, lotions, serums and sprays that had promised them manageable curls and all they delivered was a frizzy uncontrollable mess. Many of my customers resorted to chemical straightening – *a great alternative, when done in a Salon, by a stylist who is trained. Buyer beware of the “at home” straightening products – another tale for another time. The one thing all these customers have in common? Not one person, sales person or stylist had ever asked them what they were looking for from their product, how the envisioned their hair to be, what issues they were currently having with their hair, or even asking them what products they were currently using. You see, not all curl products are for all curl types. Yes, there are different curl types, from fine to thick, from wavy to corkscrew. Some corkscrew curls are fine, others are thick and coarse. Some have coarse wave mid shaft that gradually becomes a fine Botticelli style curl at the ends. Using the correct curl product for the curl type is key.

There are many Professional Salon Curl products on the market. Today’s tale is focused on DevaCurl – in a word, Miraculous.

This is a line that we brought into the shop over 3 months ago. Our owner/head stylist has curly hair, so she was our test subject. She understood the struggles and the frustrations of having curly hair. The results were outstanding. Soft, frizz free, shiny defined curls. The key to achieving these curls – using the DevaCurl Deva 3-step system. Now before you get all “I don’t have time for 3 more steps everyday!” – take a breath. Another. It takes all of 10 minutes. It is as easy as 1-2-3. It truly is. DevaCurl offers a 100% sulfate free, paraben free and silicone free shampoo – No Poo and conditioner – One Condition. *there will be no lather with the shampoo – sulfate free = no lather. No need to add more shampoo while cleansing – just add more water. The third step to the DevaCurl Deva 3-step system is the Light Defining Gel (for flexible styling/natural hold) or the Ultra Defining Gel(for ultimate curl retention/long lasting hold) – also 100% sulfate, paraben and silicone free.

Step 1 – cleanse your hair with No Poo (shampoo)

Step 2 – condition with One Condition and rinse. * a perk to this conditioner – it can be used as a leave in for extra hydration.

Step 3 – apply the Light Defining Gel or Ultra Defining Gel. * for best results apply to wet hair. Yes. Wet hair. Tilt head forward and scrunch the gel into wet curls in an upwards motion. Then apply gel between your palms, emulsify and glide your palms over the hair.

* DevaCurl offers an array of online tutorials and tips – check out http://www.mydevacurl.com

DevaCurl offers an array of styling products for all curl types and all styles, a few of the big movers have been;

Mist-er Right – a curl refresher to deodorize and refresh curls – infused with Lavender

Styling Cream – defines curls with a soft natural hold that is humidity resistant = no frizz

Flexible Hold Hair Spray – offers soft, touchable curls. Adds shine, helps curl retention and adds to all day conditioning.

Set Up & Above – a pomade style product that offers maximum hold, texture and volume. Great styling control without a sticky mess. * Great results for short styles too – curly or straight.

The DevaTowel – a microfiber towel that provides a smooth surface for curls – to set curls while keeping them defined and frizz free.

The DevaCurl DevaFuser – meet your new best friend. Offers great volume and definition. This diffuser is a universal fit = fits most blow dryers. It offers 360 degree airflow = gently dries the hair from the inside and out for soft, frizz free curls.

DevaCurl is a beautiful line for anyone who has curly hair – from loose waves to tight corkscrew curls. When applied properly, the curls are beautifully defined and frizz free – so much so, when you have seen the DevaCurl results, you can spot a DevaCurl curl in a crowd. It is a company that offers terrific support for it’s customers and clients – from styling techniques to cutting techniques. DevaCurl is a 100% sulfate, paraben and silicone free line, and is a cruelty free line – they do not test on animals. Once you have been “DevaCurled” as I like to call it – you will no longer envy your friend with straight hair, you will find yourself embracing your curls and smiling at your reflection, in the mirror, in the windows…where ever you may find it.

Beauty, Business, Hair Care, health and wellness, That girl in the red coat, Uncategorized

You can take the girl out of the 80’s but you can’t take the 80’s out of the girl…

July 21, 2014 That Girl in the Red Coat Leave a comment

I have a confession to make. I love big hair. The more volume the better. Being a child of the 80’s I know for a fact that is where my love for big hair began, and the love affair continues to this day. I used to think I had thick hair, so I would purchase products that were formulated to add volume for thick hair. I would skip down the sidewalk and up to my front door, sing my hello to my parents as I ran up the stairs two at a time with dreams of big hair. I would set down my new found products on the vanity, and get to work. Within about 30 minutes the tubes and jars were in the garbage and I was a crumpled mess on the floor with flat, sticky strands dialing the number to the nearest Salon making an appointment to “chop it all off!”.

Fast forward 10 years. I am now in my late 20’s. Thanks to a stylist who took more than a minute to speak to me, yours truly learned that I do not have thick hair. I have fine hair – just lots of it. This is why all the products I had purchased did not deliver the volume promised by the package and the Hollywood Starlet on the commercials. The products were too heavy for my hair type – hence the weighed down, flat drowned rat results. I am about to have my 42nd. birthday, I have had great hair for over 15 years, now you can too. As you know, my goal is educate and enlighten. Today’s tale covers some beautiful products, tried and tested and used by yours truly, that offer great volume and control.

JOICO JoiWhip

This gem is my favorite. I have been using this since the 1990’s when it was known as IceWhip. A great mousse for all hair types, for hold, volume, control…you name it. A little goes a long way – I find dispensing an amount that is about the size of an egg is more than enough. Emulsify in both hands, apply to towel dried hair, blow dry and style. * a lovely product for those with curls looking for hold without having to blow dry. ** It smells heavenly

JOICO Structure Animate

A lightweight styling cream that offers volume, hold and shine. I found the best results when I applied the product at my roots before blow drying (dispense about the size of a quarter, emulsify in both hands then apply). It can be used on dry hair, but can tend to get sticky if too much is applied – on dry hair – stick to about the size of a nickel, emulsify in your hands, then apply were needed. *smells like candy!

Schwarzkopf Session Label Series – Dust It Flex

The newest addition to the Schwarzkopf family of products, the Session Label series. This product is AMAZING. It is a powder, that when applied to dry hair, lifts and holds your hair without a powdery mess or sticky residue. It offers a workable hold, so if you add too much (which for me isn’t possible), you can rework your hair with your hands or a brush. You can apply the powder directly into your hair or shake some into your hands and work it into the hair – I found the latter worked best for me. It offers a matte finish. *terrific for longer styles.

SOMA Volumize Thermal Spray

This finishing spray from SOMA is a gem. It will not leave your hair feeling sticky or crunchy and adds volume, hold and humidity resistance (no frizz!). Although it is a finishing spray, it can be used on towel dried hair and on dry hair as you are styling. *Great for updo’s – holds curls all day.

SENSCIENCE Pro Formance Polish

Lets just say, when I used this, the angels sang. For those of you familiar with my tales, you know a few tears were shed when Joico discontinued Brilliatine, and I was known to stomp my feet when Senscience discontinued Pliable Shine. Well beauties, let me tell you, Senscience stepped up to the plate and delivered a home run with their Pro Formance Polish. This pomade offers great shine with a flexible/workable hold. I love it to add that little extra boost of volume at my roots and to add to my ends to give a smooth sealed look. A little goes a long way – scoop out an amount the size of your thumb nail and emulsify into both hands and work in to hair. For a pieced out/textured look to your bangs – apply to your finger tips and work into hair. *a great product for slick/controlled styles.

Beauty, communication, Hair Care, health and wellness, parenting, That girl in the red coat, Uncategorized, Women

Can you fix this?

July 14, 2014 That Girl in the Red Coat Leave a comment

“The bottle promised bright pink hair! Can you fix this?”. “All I asked for was a bob, I didn’t want to look like a Bob! Can you fix this?”. “I was told if I used 40 volume peroxide that my hair would be platinum blonde! Can you fix this?”. These, among others, are common questions posed to me and my stylists at least once a day. At some point in our lives, we have taken our hair into our own hands and realized, oh…that’s why I am not a hair stylist. The great thing about all hair mishaps? They can be fixed. Color can be corrected. Damage from over processing can be repaired with conditioning treatments. Curls can be defined and their frizz controlled. With time and proper products, even the most botched of cuts can look good. That’s the great thing about the Salon, we can help repair the damage. Sometimes, we can even help repair the damage that isn’t seen.

Unfortunately, there are some things I cannot fix. “Look at her scalp! It’s soooo oily! Can you fix this?”. “She decided to try to color her own hair and now looks like she should be on a street corner! Can you fix this?”. “HMMPPT! He thinks he needs gel for his hair…what a diva I have for a son! Can you fix this?”. Yes, I am sad to say, these are phrases that parents have said, about their children, in front of their children, to me. It is usually at this moment I look the child straight in the eye and tell them “I may not be able to fix everything for you, but I can help you with your hair.” and I give them a wink. Once and for all, to all the parents and care givers out there;

– STOP pointing at your child’s oily scalp and proclaiming it as an injustice against you. The only injustice is against your child’s self esteem

– Do not, I repeat, do not refer to your daughter in a derogatory manner. EVER. How is she ever going to know her self worth if all she hears is worthless remarks.

– Young men want to like their reflection too. To make fun of a young man who wants his hair styled just so is mean,plain and simple. I don’t know where it began, teasing men that take pride in their appearance, but I know where it is going to end. Right here. Right now.

– When your teen wants to try a new hairstyle, let them. It’s only hair. It will grow back. Here’s a thought…if the only struggle you are facing with your teen is that they want a mohawk…this is a good problem to have.

– If your child wants to have pink hair, I highly recommend trying hair chalk – Kevin Murphy Color Bug or Joico Structure Pigment Pencils – the color washes out after one wash. It’s a win/win. Your child gets to have fun colors in their hair without the damage and you get to have a tantrum free day.

– For your curly haired cherubs – First, stop referring to their head as a tangled horrible mess. Second, invest in Salon Professional products. DevaCurl is an amazing product line, created for curls of every type. Check out the awesome tutorials on their website http://www.mydevacurl.com

– If your son wants long hair – do not tell him long hair is for girls. If your daughter wants short hair – do not tell her short hair is for boys. If you are worried about what people will think, sorry to tell you this, that is your problem – not your child’s. *this being said, as their parent, be sure to help them style their hair, or have the stylist teach them.

I am a mother and I have put my foot in it many times, of that I am certain. Another certainty…that I have needed to apologize on many an occasion, not necessarily for what I said, but how I said it. As parents, we teach our children to think before they speak. I think it’s time we taught ourselves the same lesson.

Beauty, Business, Fashion, Hair Care, That girl in the red coat, Uncategorized

Taking a Tour

June 17, 2014 That Girl in the Red Coat Leave a comment

On June 2nd., yours truly took a little tour to The Cambridge Mill in Cambridge Ontario to attend the Spring Trend Tour show sponsored by Joico and Piidea Direct. Inspiration was promised and inspiration was delivered…from the choice of venue to the artistry displayed on stage.

I arrived to warm hospitality from the staff at the Cambridge Mill, hot coffee and a glorious view while waiting for the show to start.

The view from The Cambridge Mill

Once at my table the music pumping, the lights flashing, I knew I was in for a treat. The show began with a student competition and let me tell you, these students GOT IT! Great styles and structure to the cuts and creations and color. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for these young stylists and their clients.

Yep! Created by students!

After the student competition we were treated to some great cutting and color techniques using Joico and ISO color from Marc Galati and Darci Armstrong. True professionals and artists, who touched on all aspects of having a client in your chair, from foil placement, understanding your client, helping your client achieve their desired look and in my opinion the most important, making sure that you sell your client the proper products to protect their investment in themselves.

Marc Galati

Darci Armstrong

After a scrumptious lunch that included the best ever beet salad I ever had, wraps, sandwiches and tasty treats for dessert we were in for a real treat. Monika Lombardi took the stage with her creations for the gents of all ages. It was a wonderful addition to the show as, for those of you who follow my Salon Tales, our gents do not get enough attention and they are a huge market that needs more attention. Great barbering techniques were displayed and taught by Monika, as were styling techniques. Monika gave a step by step walk through of each technique she was utilizing. Another true professional and artist. I cannot wait to see what the next trend show will bring!

Monika Lombardi

All the creations

For those of you looking to change it up at your Salon, or are thinking of dabbling in more vibrant colors and creations, I recommend Piidea Direct and Joico. To be clear, I am not receiving any type of stipend. The reason for the recommendation? I am a manager of a Salon and retail shop which means I am also a customer. I am a customer that needs product, color and support and I receive all three from Piidea and Joico. Free education, support 24/7, samples for our back bar and our clients, even complimentary retail bags for our clients and customers…and awesome Sales Reps., like mine.

Melodie Hergott – Sales Rep Extraordinaire! …and yours truly.

Beauty, Business, communication, Hair Care, health and wellness, That girl in the red coat, Uncategorized, Women, writing

Tales of Truth Part 11

June 16, 2014 That Girl in the Red Coat 1 Comment

That’s right, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, gather ’round for another installment of Tales of Truth. Last week was the week of the full moon and Friday the 13th., so you can imagine what yours truly got to hear and got to see. As always, the following tales are based on real events…sigh.

– I hear the chirp of the Salon’s door chime. A regular customer comes up to the counter and says she needs my opinion. I say “Sure! What can I help you with?”. She proceeds to come behind the counter, lifting her skirt as she walks. I stopped her dead in her tracks, put my hand up and said “You can keep your skirt down. Let me guess…you want to ask me if red bumps after waxing is normal” to which she looked at me like I was Dionne Warwick and I was her new psychic bff. “YES! How did you know without seeing?”. ….double sigh

– A woman came in to buy her hairspray and she was concerned about leaving the hairspray in the car as she ran errands because it was such a hot day. I reassured her that if she put it in the trunk, it should be fine. She was quite relieved. As we were waiting for the debit machine to connect, she became a little anxious. “Can you hurry this up? I left my dog in the car!”. …wait for it…there you go.

– We carry products that are vegan and certified organic. I had a customer ask me if they were packaged on a farm. I let her know that they weren’t packaged on a farm, they were packaged in a factory. She then began to tell me that there was no way the products could be organic because they weren’t packaged on a farm.

– I have a dish of candies at our front desk for our customers and clients, to add a little sweetness to their day. A woman asked me if the candies were free of charge. I let her know that they were and to help herself. She couldn’t believe that I would just give away candy so she left a quarter on the counter “just in case I was trying to pull one over on her”.

– Later that same day I had a woman ask if the candies were free, I let her know that they were and to please help herself. She dug through the bowl and took all the red candies, 10 in total. How do I know it was 10? She counted out loud…people, I shit you not…this really happens.

– From time to time companies will offer a bonus size hairspray that retails for the same price of the regular size bottle. The bonus size can be up to 300 ml more than the regular retail size bottle – it’s like getting two for the price of one. I had a woman get down right angry that all I had in stock were the bonus size cans. She didn’t like them and thought they looked tacky. I let her know that although she may not like the look of the bottle it was a great savings. Her exact words to me were “Who are they to decide that I want to save money?”.

– As I was ringing through a purchase, my customer complimented me on my hair. I thanked her and let her know that our stylists in our Salon do my color for me. “Oh, is that why whenever I come here I hear blow dryers and the chatter?” …I just smiled and handed her a Salon price list. As she was leaving she looked back and said “Thank you! This makes so much sense now.”.

– A woman came in looking for nail polish. I took her over to our OPI and China Glaze displays. When she noticed my sign “please do not try on polishes, please ask for assistance with the swatches” she remarked that she couldn’t believe people would actually open up products and try them out. She chose her polish and said she was just going to look around. Not ten seconds later do I hear “ppffffftttt” – I came around the corner to her trying two different hairsprays, one on each side of her head “Oh…I am just trying them out. I just want to see which one holds better”.

…triple sigh.

Beauty, Business, communication, Hair Care, health and wellness, That girl in the red coat, Women, writing

If you are a stylist…you are a sales person

May 20, 2014 That Girl in the Red Coat 3 Comments

Ladies and Gents, we are in the business of Beauty. Yes…the business, and as in every business, sales and selling are what keeps the business alive,competitive and profitable. “Oh…I’m not a sales person.”. “I am a hairstylist…not a sales person.”. Two of the most common phrases I hear from hair stylists and Salon owners. Today’s tale is to put this myth to rest. Yeah, I said myth. … convincing a woman to give you 3 hours out of her hectic schedule and pay you $175.00 for hair color – if that isn’t selling than I don’t know what is.

I manage an independently owned retail shop/salon, and I can tell you, in all honesty, that our retail sales make up for over 70% of the salon’s revenue. Yep…you read that correctly, 70%. Many of my customers are the clients of other Salons. Salons that don’t retail any product, or sell the products that they have on their shelves. I am on the front lines, so to speak, and am here to tell you that your clients and customers want their hair to look the same between appointments and are willing to spend that little extra if it means that their hair will look good and feel good. Your clients and customers need to be taught about their products, how much to use and how often. There is a need that is not being met…well, I am meeting it. You can too. You can. Think about it, you have your client in your chair for at least 45 minutes. That is 45 minutes that you can discuss the shampoo, the conditioner, the conditioning treatment, the styling products, the hair dryer and the flat iron you are using on them that day. You can have them smell the products, feel how the dryer’s handle fits their hand, and show them how to adjust the temperature on the flat iron. 45 minutes. There are moments that I have 6 retail customers at once and I have 5 minutes to explain products and how to use them. If I can sell $75.00 worth of product in 5 minutes, imagine what you can potentially sell in 45 minutes.

All professional hair care lines offer product knowledge classes. All professional hair care lines have their own websites that offer a break down of each product, their features and benefits to each hair type. Every bottle offers a description of what the product is used for, and how to use it. It is time to educate yourself and your Salon staff. It really is that simple. At least 3 -5 times a week I am on my lap top or my phone, with my customer right beside me, looking up a product, or showing them a tutorial on You tube. The information is out there. It’s time to find it and use it. Being me, I have compiled a little list for you, a retail aid if you will.

– First and foremost – stop fearing the sale. When you are telling your client about the product you are using in their hair, you are having a conversation. …if you are able to tell them about your nightmare of a date last week, you can tell them about the hairspray you are using.

– remind your client that their new hair color is an investment in themselves, and that is it a worthy investment, that using Salon professional shampoo and conditioner, like the one you use on them each visit, will prolong the vibrancy of their color and nourish their hair to keep it looking like they just left the Salon.

– while using your flat iron, explain to your client the difference between the quality of professional hair care tools and department store brands. In my experience, once my customer understands the difference, the question of what to buy and where to buy it is answered. The value of Salon professional products has been explained. Not sure where to begin? Check out my Salon Tale;

To go where no flat iron has gone before

– when your client tells you they love their hair, tell them that if they use the products you used that day that they can love their hair everyday. Offer them 5 more minutes of your time to show them how to use the product.

– offer a complimentary consultation on how to use products. Many times, in my experience, my customers have the proper products at home, they are usually using too much or too little, or the application of the product can be improved. Many of my new customers purchase their products from me because I offered this service to them.

– ask your clients/customers if they are happy with their hair. Their answer will give you all the information you need. You will find out that their hair goes limp by noon, or their frizz is getting out of control. Let them know that you have products that can help them, and offer to show them how to use them.

– explain the value of Salon professional hair care products. I personally go around to check on prices at the drug store and department store. Many of the products are $1 – $3 less than Salon professional products. I explain this to my customers and remind my customers that Salon professional products are higher quality and more concentrated = less product used and more money saved. …and their hair will look and feel terrific.

It’s time to make retail a priority in your Salon, plain and simple. Retail in the Salon is a win/win. Your clients hair care needs are being taken care of, their personal investment in themselves is being nurtured and protected and your Salon has added revenue. Take the time to talk with your clients, educate your clients and not only will you have made a sale, you will have created a customer.