 Many people dream of pursuing a career in the salon industry. Sadly, the majority of those dreams don’t see the light of day. Some people give up before they even begin, while others fail as hair stylists because they mistakenly believe something about the industry that isn’t true. Before you give up on your dream of being a hairstylist, take a look at the five biggest myths about the salon industry. What Are The Biggest Myths About The Salon Industry? Just as any career, hairdressing comes with its own misconceptions. Sure, there may be a bit of truth behind some of these notions, but there’s no reason to let falsehoods hold you back. These are the five biggest myths surrounding the salon industry. Myth 1: Becoming a hair stylist is easy. How hard can it be to cut hair, right? In reality, styling hair requires a very specific skill set that can’t be taught overnight. It takes proper training and plenty of practice. Then, even once you’ve developed your skills, landing a job won’t be a walk in the park. There are less than 2,000 hair stylist job openings each year, on average. That may sound like plenty, but considering how many people try to become stylists, the number’s unimpressive. Myth 2: All hair stylists make a lot of money. There’s a perception of glamor that surrounds the salon industry. Working as a beauty professional seems like the perfect golden career, but in reality, it’s a ton of hard work for not always a ton of money. The average hair stylist earns $30,000 a year; some make much less. That’s not to say you can’t have a profitable career in the salon industry. It can certainly be done—with hard work, determination and the right business training. Myth 3: Hair stylists can’t retire. Because many smaller salons don’t offer retirement benefits, you may think you’ll have to work forever if you choose a career as a stylist. That simply isn’t true. Retirement is all about the way you handle money. Planning ahead can make a huge difference for your future. What’s more, there are career advancements to be had in the salon industry. Starting out as a stylist doesn’t mean you’re stuck as a stylist. You may become a manager, or maybe even open your own salon one day. Myth 4: Hairdressing doesn’t qualify as a business career. Despite popular belief, being a hair stylist requires sufficient business knowledge. It’s not all about making people look good, though that’s a big part of it. Another tool for success is a knowledge of how to run your business, the best ways to bring in customers and keep them happy, and how to properly manage your expenses, etc. Myth 5: Going to cosmetology school is all that’s needed for success. Education is crucial to success in the salon industry, but cosmetology school can only go so far. Stylists often need additional training, such as the Associate Program, to really thrive and grow. In fact, 80 percent of stylists quit in the first two years after graduating, and the average hairdresser’s career only lasts three to five years. With more in-depth training, these numbers could change drastically. Is It Possible To Succeed As A Hair Stylist? If you’re one of the dreamers envisioning a career in the salon industry, realize it’s not an easy way out. It can definitely be a lucrative, enjoyable career, but it requires hard work, determination, education and perseverance to make your dream a reality. Find out more about how the Associate Program can lead you to success by clicking the button below. 
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 Being part of the salon industry is a dream for many people. Unfortunately, that dream often comes to a sudden, heartbreaking halt not long after being realized.
While some beauty professionals thrive for decades and beyond, an overwhelming majority watch their salon businesses crash and burn within a few years of launching. In fact, only five percent of salons are actually profitable – 15 percent are cash flowing. Sadly, 80 percent of salons are currently losing money, and a whopping 26,000 closed last year. Roughly 52 salons a day are forced to close their doors for good. So what’s the catalyst of this downward trend? There are a number of factors to consider, but perhaps one of the biggest causes is a lack of adequate business training for stylists. For this reason, The Salon by Lora Brown is adopting a new associate program: the Summit Salon System. What Is The Summit Associate Program? Cosmetology Schools teach stylists the base level skills to start your career as a stylist and get your license, but you are left to learn the business side of your new career on your own. Knowing best practices for enhancing your earning potential while providing an exceptional client experience is the only way to succeed as a stylist. That’s where The Salon by Lora Brown leads you in the process of success. Using the Summit Salon Business Process, we teach you and mentor you on how to join your passion with realistic financial goals, allowing you to prepare for a long, profitable career in the beauty industry. Superior Training Using the Summit Salon Associate Program, The Salon by Lora Brown starts on day one taking your education to the next level and eventually leading you to be a Master’s level stylist. It gives you the skills necessary for staying in business years after you graduate — skills you can’t get most other places. Flexibility Following the Summit Salon system, The Salon by Lora Brown provides you with the process to create a career with more flexibility than you might otherwise have. Say goodbye to long 12-hour shifts in the salon, and say hello to a work/life balance. Whether you’re a mom, young professional, or a new stylist, career flexibility is possible when you’re are a team member at The Salon by Lora Brown following the Summit Salon System. Summit Salon Program Benefits Once you go from an associate to a Level 1 Stylist at The Salon by Lora Brown, you’re a member of the team at The Salon and are part of the Summit Program. You can work your way up the Levels in the system and eventually become a stockholder in The Salon by Lora Brown if that is your desire. Eventually providing additional income that is not earned behind the chair. Client Satisfaction Above all other reasons for joining The Salon by Lora Brown is client satisfaction. When you received extraordinary training, you’re able to give clients better service in a shorter amount of time. The client satisfaction that results from improved service leads to repeat business, referrals and word-of-mouth advertising – all because you took the initiative to further your career by joining The Salon by Lora Brown and following the Summit Salon Process. How Does The Salon by Lora Brown Help? The Salon by Lora Brown is the only salon in Amarillo to offer Summit Salon System to stylists. We’ll provide everything you need to succeed with the program, including support, hands-on experience, and coaching. Ready to take your passion for hairdressing to a new level? Apply for our Associate Program today.  It’s been a week since we returned from the BTW Color, Cut & Style Show, but The Salon is still reeling from what all we learned from this amazing event Stylist Sarah Lyons and I attended the three-day show in Florida, along with 63 educators, 41 sponsors and hundreds of our fellow stylists and salon owners. Educators showcased coloring, cutting, barbering, styling, braids, and wedding hair on stage. Industry experts also participated in panels, offering business advice, social media tips and more. A few of the educators we had the pleasure of listening to were:
 Color Trends This year’s theme for coloring is seamless; colors just seem to melt into one another so you don’t notice where each color was placed. Fashion colors, such as rose gold and pink, are still hot but are softer shades that blend in well. We will continue to see more pastel pinks, violets and grays. Reds are always a strong color in the fall, especially deep reds, copper and ruby reds. As far as blondes, you will begin to see more ash grey and buttery colors to rose blondes with a hint of soft pink. However, hair color trends will continue to have depth and dimension. Cutting Trends We saw cutting from:
The theme for cutting is soft lines and weightless movement.  These educators performed dry cutting in order to see the natural flow of the hair. Shags, natural curls and loose waves are very strong for fall 2016 and spring 2017. Bangs also continue to be hot. The new long is shoulder length, according to Garren, who just returned from Fashion Week. Men’s Barbering Trends We saw barbering from Mark Bustos and Matty Conrad. Barbering is here to stay, and barbers are heading back to the old school looks of clean lines and soft blending, as well as shorter to longer and a pompadour on top. Bustos and Conrad offered tips for men who desire strong square cuts to appear masculine. Beards are also well groomed.  Styling Trends Natural is the theme for hair styling. From very natural ringlet curls and soft undone waves to Victoria’s Secret-model waves (a la Sarah Potempa) and finger waves to soft continuous S waves that fit together and don’t separate. Seventies-style curls are also back. Braiding continues to be a huge trend. Some new looks to consider are one center braid and loose waves, Dutch infinity braids, knot braids, and rope braids. The “One Shot” hair awards show included stylists’ work from all over the world. Pictures illustrated everything from color and cutting, to editorial looks and men’s, to avant-garde styles and rainbow coloring, to even extensions. We also saw vendors who were displaying the latest and greatest tools to make styling more efficient as well as preserve the integrity of one’s hair. After the hair show, Sarah and I traveled to Miami to view the new LBP Education Center. The staff stayed after hours to give us a tour. Guests artists, such as Garen, visit to offer hands-on education with professional photographers to boost your portfolio.  Social Media and Business
In addition to color, cut and style trends, Sarah and I also had the opportunity to learn the latest social media and business tips from the pros. The social media panel discussed how stylists can become famous just by properly harnessing the power of social media. The celebrity stylist panel included:
These industry experts discussed how to brand yourself in addition to the time, hours and dedication it requires to become a successful stylist. Visit The Salon By Lora Brown Do you want to try out one of these new colors or hairstyles? Visit The Salon By Lora Brown and get the hottest new looks! The Behind the Chair Color, Cut, & Style Show is just a week away, and The Salon by Lora Brown couldn't be more excited for our trip! At the three-day event, those in attendance will have the opportunity to hear from many speakers. The teams that will take the stage are made up of professionals from salons and beauty companies around the country.  Beth Minardi is known in the industry for her line of hair color, Beth Minardi Signature Shades. She's worked with celebrities from Cameron Diaz to Brad Pitt, and will share her experience on the Color Stage. The team from Kenra Professional includes Guy Tang, Rebecca Taylor, Robb Dubre, Laken Rose, Cassie Siskovic, and David Lopez. Combined, the team has been featured in Glamour, Allure, US Weekly, People, Vogue, Harper's Bizarre, and Elle Magazine. The TIGI team includes Anthony Mascolo, Thomas Osborn, and Richy Kandasamy. The three have collectively won countless awards while developing the TIGI brand. Nancy Braun, Travis Parker, and Pepper Pastor make up the team from L'Oreal Paris. The team specializes in creating classic, but updated looks and will share their expertise with the crowd. Denis De Souza, Ricardo Santiago, Philip Ring, and Ben Mollin are the men behind Joico. With a following in traditional media and social media, the team shares knowledge about both traditional and contemporary coloring techniques. Schwarzkopf Professional is being represented by Kim Vo, Damien Carney, and Rossa Jurenas. The three have made numerous television appearances, representing the company in North America and globally. Robert Cromeans, Mary Cuomo, Noogie Thai, Anya Segers, and Jamie Stout will be speaking for Paul Mitchell. Taking inspiration from around the world, the team will be inspiring the crowd when they speak during their session. Farouk will be represented by Patrick Kalle, Maurice den Exter, Richard Jordan, and Anna Cantu. The team has years of experience with creating award-winning looks and will share their work at the event. Learn from the pros at L'anza Healing Haircare: Ammon Carver, Matt Swinney, Leah Freeman, and Christopher Dove & John Simpson. Members of the L'anza team have created valuable education tools and built their knowledge base while working with clients like Kate Beckinsale and Molly Sims. You'll find Leen and Bertus, The Schorem Barbers, representing Reuzel. The two bring old school style to modern day clients and will be sharing their techniques at the BTC event. Darren, Thom Priano, and Howard McLaren are the co-founders of R+Co. You've seen the team's work in over 1,000 magazine covers, as well as on celebrity clients like Justin Timberlake and David Bowie. From Moroccanoil, Peter Gray, Kevin Hughes, and Violet Sainsbury will be leading a session. The global brand has worked with clients like Rihanna and Emily Blunt, as well as partnering with huge fashion brands like Zac Posen and Givenchy. Those attending BTC will also hear from Stephanie Brinkerhoff from ghd and Kenra Professional. A bridal hair expert, Brinkerhoff has millions of social media followers and will be bringing her skills to the event to hear about in person. The team from label.m will consist of Efi Davies, Richard Mannah, Kevin Luchmun, Cos Sakkas, and Indira Schauwecker. A mix of those who have become well known in the industry and new rising stars, the team will be bringing their creativity and expertise to the stage. Finally, Sarah Potempa will represent Beachwaver Co. With experience working with celebrities like Lea Michele and Julianne Moore, Potempa is most well known for the gorgeous waves created for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. Find out how she does it at BTC. The Salon by Lora Brown is looking forward to showing you what we learn from these industry experts. Keep up to date on the BTW Color, Cut & Style Show by following us on Facebook and Instagram! Learn how you can better the culture at your salon!  One key to being a great stylist is staying on top of industry trends. Events are a great opportunity for stylists to get inspired, make professional connections, and learn how to best serve clients. The annual Behind the Chair Color Cut, & Style Show is one the top conferences in the hair industry, and The Salon by Lora Brown is excited to be in attendance in just a few weeks!  What Is The BTC Show? The Behind the Chair event is a chance for stylists from around the country to come together for three days of learning about new hair trends and techniques, trying out new products, and networking with others in the industry. Throughout the conference, stylists, salon owners and others in the business can also watch demonstrations and hear about new products. The Color Stage Speakers and industry leaders will take the stage over the course of the event, sharing their personal stories and offering advice to those in attendance. Teams from Beth Minardi, Kenra Professional, TIGI, L'Oreal Professional, Joico, Schwarzkopf, Paul Mitchell, Farouk, L'anza will lead sessions on the Color Stage. Combined, the teams boast years of experience in the industry and have worked with celebrity clients all over the world. The Cut & Style Stage Experts in cut and style will be on stage on Day 3 of the event. Those in the crowd will hear from several teams with years of industry experience and knowledge. Teams from Reuzel, R + Co, Moroccanoil, ghd and Kenra Professional, label.m Professional Haircare, and Beachwaver Co. will take the Cut and Color Stage. Featured in magazines, print and television ads, and online, the teams have plenty of valuable experience to share. Enjoying The Extras In addition to the advice and lessons that stylists will receive from the speakers on stage, there are plenty of other opportunities to grow professionally and network at the event. The event schedule includes plenty of time at the Connection Center. In the Connection Center, sponsors will be demonstrating techniques and showing off products. BTC is an excellent chance for stylists to learn about new colors, cuts, and styles. One way to gather information is with Formula Cards. Offered in the Connection Center, the cards feature a photo of a particular look, as well as a how to for creating the look at the home salon. Collecting the cards throughout the event will leave stylists with a library of styles to offer clients when the three day event is over. Are you a stylist interested in working with a team that values professional development? Contact The Salon by Lora Brown today to ask about employment opportunities and stay tuned to hear more about the Color, Cut & Style Show!  Whether you're a salon regular or trying out a new place for the first time, salon etiquette should always be on your mind before, during, and after an appointment.
Here's how to make the most of your hair appointment and ensure you get the look you want. 7 Tips On Hair Salon Etiquette 1. Don't Be Late To you, it might be normal to run 15 minutes late to appointments. To a stylist, 15 minutes can easily be a quarter of an appointment. When you make a stylist wait for you, it can throw off the schedule for the rest of the day. Call the salon as soon as you realize you're going to be running late to give your stylist the opportunity to rearrange their schedule. 2. Know What You Want Go into your appointment with a clear idea of what you're looking for. Bring pictures for reference and be prepared with questions, if you have any. Knowing what you're looking for will help to get the conversation started while you and your stylist discuss what will look best with your coloring and features. 3. Enjoy the Experience Some clients love to chat with their stylist, while others prefer to sit back and relax throughout the appointment. Either is okay! If you want to keep up the conversation, stylists will be happy to answer your questions and give tips about day-to-day styling. If you aren't feeling talkative, don't feel pressured to chat. However, avoid pulling out your cell phone to text or talk to others, if you can help it. 4. Use Your Voice Throughout the appointment, speak up when necessary. If you're worried about how your hair is being cut, colored, or styled, let your stylist know! It's better to voice your opinion before it's too late to change direction than to leave the salon unhappy. 5. Be Honest There might be a time when you aren't happy with your results. Of course. you'll want to let your stylist know. Remember that everyone is human and mistakes happen. Your stylist will do what they can to work with you and fix the situation. Try to stay calm and kind while you talk it out. 6. Check the Rates Money conversations tend to be the most awkward. You can skip any surprises by doing a little research before scheduling your appointment. Check the salon's website or ask when you call to find out how much clients are charged for services like cuts, coloring, and styling. 7. Tip Accordingly Tipping, like the cost of services, is a delicate topic. That’s why we are going to be honest. Many clients not only wonder what they should tip, but who they should tip. Salons commonly see 15-25% tips. That percentage depends on the quality of service you received and the amount of work it took. As far as who to tip, ask the salon owner or your stylist what’s the preferred method. The salon may prefer you tip the employee who shampooed your hair and waxed your eyebrows in addition to the person who cut and colored your hair, or they may split the tip at the end of the day. When paying, specify how you would like to tip. Tipping is always appreciated! Are you ready to make an appointment and get a new look? Contact the hair and beauty experts at The Salon by Lora Brown today!  Meet The Salon’s Newest Stylists The Salon by Lora Brown is excited to announce we have two new stylists going behind the chair. Treyla Stoner has been a licensed hairstylist for six years and is a graduate of Clovis Community College Cosmetology Program. She joined The Salon in March and has already acquired 164 hours of hands-on education as of the end of May. Treyla specializes in braids, updos, coloring services, and wedding and special events. She has also done hair for a variety of photo shoots, including senior portraits and boudoir sessions. Sandra Torres has been a licensed stylist and cosmetologist for 10 years and is a graduate of the Ogle School in Arlington, Texas. She joined The Salon in April and has earned 80 hours of hands-on education as of the end of May. Sandra worked as a makeup artist in Mexico City, styling hair for professional photo shoots, runway shows, weddings, parties and other special events. She specializes in color techniques, cuts, styles, formal updos and braids, as well as wedding, prom and special event makeup. The Salon’s stylists are committed to furthering their training so they can provide customers with the latest styles, precision cuts and color. Book an appointment with either Treyla or Sandra and receive 10% off any à la carte service!  New Services At The Salon
With Treyla and Sandra’s experience and wide array of styling skills, The Salon is able to offer more braid and updo services, as well as professional makeup services for weddings, prom and other special events. Contact The Salon today to book your appointment. |
Lora BrownLora Brown is a master stylist and the owner of The Salon by Lora Brown. She has worked in the salon industry for 30 years. Archives
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