I want that job! tasha stevens

Tasha Stevens has gone from Somerset salon to award-winning London colourist. Here we find out more about her career so far. When did you decide you wanted to be a hairdresser? I was brought up in a hairdressing environment and I spent a lot of time in the salon with my mum and my brother. As much as I tried to fight it, I couldn't help but be bitten by the hairdressing bug. I pushed myself as much as I could academically, but nothing came to me as as naturally as hairdressing did. Eventually I gave in and I’ve never looked back. School was always something that I struggled with and I never knew my own potential until I started to run my own business. The hairdressing industry has been so rewarding for me that I couldn’t see myself working in any other industry, even if I wanted to. Where did you train? I trained at our family salon in Somerset with my mum and my brother. What was your first job like? My first job was in London working for Thomas and Anita McMillan and it was amazing. Working alongside stylists with such a diverse range of skills and strengths helped me to develop, as I was able to learn different things from everyone that I worked with. It was a constant learning process and every day I was able to learn something new. It really helped me to develop both as a stylist and as a person. I was very fortunate to have been mentored by Thomas and Anita. They taught me everything, from developing my colour knowledge to how to manage my own team and run a business. During my five years with them, I gained my L’Oreal Colour Degree and they helped me achieve some of the highlights of my career – reaching the grand final at the L’Oreal Colour Trophy (which I went on to win in 2014) and being a finalist for Manager of the Year at the British Hairdressing Business Awards. When did you decide you wanted to focus on colour? When I was training, I developed a real passion for colour. I always felt more comfortable when using colour - I could cut hair, but I never had a real flair for it like my brother, Jamie. I was always better with science than maths, so I understood the science behind colour but I struggled when it came to 45 degree angles. Colour seemed like a natural fit for me. What is it about being a colourist that you love? I love having the opportunity to help educate young colourists by offering my expertise, experience and knowledge. In the salon, I love being able to transform a client’s look and give them a new-found confidence about themselves. It’s hugely rewarding to see clients smile at themselves when they see their new look in the mirror. What is your average day like?  I try to keep Tuesdays and Wednesdays free for the managerial side of things – general running of the business, staff training, checking stock levels and paper work. During the rest of the week I see clients. I like to keep my assistants as close as possible when I’m with clients, as this is one of the best opportunities for them to learn. It’s great for them to see how I work with clients, and they can listen in to everything from client consultations to colour choice. Do you still go on courses to boost your colour knowledge and techniques? Yes, I love learning new techniques and colour trends. I think it’s important to be constantly learning as it keeps you motivated and up-to-date with current trends and techniques. What piece of advice would you give your student self? When I was a student, I was so eager to qualify. When I was training I used to get frustrated with my mum and Jamie when they wouldn’t let me do things like a blow-dry or a set of highlights. Looking back, I’d tell myself to relax and use the time to absorb as much information as you can. When I look back, I can now see that I wasn’t ready. With my assistants now, I always tell them to absorb as much information as possible and to enjoy the training as the two years will fly by and be over before you know it! Looking for your next career move? Take a look at HJi Jobs for all of the latest hair and beauty job opportunities!