Color zoom 2011 winner lisa whiteman shares her story
In October 2011, Lisa Whiteman of Webster Whiteman had the incredible experience of standing on a huge stage in Miami, being named thet Goldwell Color Zoom Partner Colorist International winner.
The accolade was just rewards for the hard work she had put into refining her Color Zoom look since the trend was revealed the previous year.
We caught up with Lisa to quiz her about her stunning box bob that was beautifully finished with light-refecting panels of colour, and to learn a little more about what it takes to win an international competition.
Tell us a little bit about the entry process. When did you start to think about your entry? Did you do any special preparation such as attending trend seminars?
I started thinking about my entry as soon as I knew what the new collection looked like. I went to Color Zoom in 2010 and saw the preview, so I began to think about my look then. I got all the information from there, and took notes as I am a Goldwell Ambassador and need to know what the trends are for the brand and Fellowship events.
The competition requires you to interpret a trend. How do you go about that without making a copy?
As an individual hairdresser you have your own ideas about colour placement, fashion & trends, so it's natural to put your own take on things without copying.
How would you describe your winning look - what do you think made it stand out?
It was a classically British look that showed I had thought about colour placement and shape thoroughly. I used clean lines to demonstrate my technical ability. Its simplicity made it stand out; strength in its simplicity.
You were named the UK winner at the Goldwell Summer Party. Tell us about the night and how it feels to hear your name called out?
I was very excited and very happy that my team were there with me to share my win!
Then it was on to Miami for the International final, where you had to recreate your look. Did you do any special preparation for that?
I had to ensure I had all the components to recreate my look, checking my model was available, practising my colour and cut and ensuring the outfit was spot on.
And what about the Color Zoom international event. What was that like as an experience and for you as a competitor?
I had never been a competitor before so I didn't know what to expect. The main thing that frightened me was the three hour timer; it really put the pressure on! The judging and the rules are very serious which brought home the enormity off being a global finalist. I was really happy to be in Miami, representing Goldwell and the salon. It was weird to discover the enormity of the event and how huge it was to be part of it.
Live finals can be a real challenge. Did everything go to plan?
Thankfully, yes - except we forgot the model's corset, but a kind London salon owner brought it over for us so it was disaster adverted.
How proud were you to be named the winner? And what has winning the award done for you?
I was ecstatic. So happy! I didn't realise I could feel that elated. It was great to have the UK on my side, it made it extra special. There are 2,500 people watching you win - it's massive! It has been great PR for me, the salon and Goldwell in the UK. It is also a great way to attract new clients, and has restored my faith in my ability. My friends, family and colleagues were all very proud. It also has given me the chance to work with the Goldwell International team, which is amazing.
As part of the prize you have been working on the Trends for 2013. What can you tell us about the experience does it feel strange to be setting the trends?
You're creating a new concept for a global brand so you need the input of a team working together to really ensure you get the direction right. It's important that everyone agrees on the direction and has the same goal in mind, while considering the image of the Goldwell brand too. The trend needs to translate globally so there is so much to consider.
Based on your experiences would you advise other people to enter? If so, what advice would you give them?
It's great for personal development and for your clients. Keep your work beautiful, simple and conceptual!
