Unite hair brings to life demonstration in hands-on workshops
Published
31st Oct 2012
by rachael
Separated into cutting and styling groups, the classes were taught by some of the leading names who had presented on stage over the weekend. Hosting the cutting class were Dennis Kil and Cor Bouw (the Netherlands), Julie Mustoffa-Meggitt and Dona McLachlan (USA), Adam Noble (Australia) and Gary Glossman (UK).
More than 50 students per session were separated into groups to learn from each of the guest artists, learning everything from razor cutting to bringing to life colour through cut.
A couple of blocks over, editorial and session looks were presented by Eduard Meijerink (the Netherlands), Jami Symons (Canada) and Fletch and Paul Merritt (the UK).
Students from across the globe learnt how to create some of the looks they had seen on stage over the previous two days, from avant-garde updos with coloured hair pieces to classic 60s chignons.
The day also saw salon owners and managers attend the first day of Paramount Business, with presentations on all aspects of business hosted by UNITE Hair's founder and CEO Andrew Dale and manager of Urban Retreat, Marcus Allen.
After a day of classes, the business seminar closed with a wine tasting hosted by Jessie Rodriguez, sommelier at Grand Del Mar in San Diego. Focussing on the importance of selling a story and presentation aspect of sales, Jessie drew parallels between the nuances of selling wine and running a salon.
Observations included;
- The importance of product knowledge. His wine list offers 3,680 options and he knows them all inside out - a good stylist needs to be entirely knowledgeable about the products they are using and retailing if they are to use them productively.
- Listening is key to gaining clients' trust. A sommelier only has a couple of minutes to understand which wine a guest should drink; look for visual clues and listen to what they are saying to make an educated judgement.
- Don't dismiss clients who are on a budget or looking for a cheaper option; entry level isn't a bad thing. If you over-deliver and give great service, they'll not only come back but may be tempted to spend more next time.
- Communicate with colleagues and peers in the industry as well as other business people; don't be afraid to ask their advice and get their insight. Talking collectively and building strong relationships will feed your creativity.
- Niche, boutique brands are great for building client loyalty. They give clients a sense of being in on something special and once you've created that connection, they will look out for your brand in the future and recommend it to their friends.
