**Guest post by our Featured Stylist of the Month, Social Media Director, and beauty blogger at A Greater Gorgeous, Susannah Craft**
Heyo! Susannah here again. I thought last month would be the end of my time as a guest blogger, but as it turns out, I'm this month's featured stylist and I'm here to tell you about my favorite service, balayage highlighting!
Okay, first of all, I know you're all asking yourselves how to even pronounce the word: it's bah-lee-ahge, that's a soft g. It comes from the French word for "sweep", so we like to get fancy and pronounce it the way it's supposed to be pronounced. Sometimes you'll see it written "balyage" or "baliage," too. For our purposes, we're going to call it balayage.
So what is balayage highlighting? To put it simply, it's a highlighting technique in which you freehand-paint the highlights onto the hair instead of using foils (or the dreaded highlighting cap -- run as fast as you can). It allows your stylist to be more creative & precise with highlight placement, and to give you a more customized look.
The results end up being a more natural-looking highlight; more sunkissed than highlighted. You know how kids get those amazing highlights from spending all that time outside in the summer time, and then over the course of the fall & winter they start to grow out and look even more amazing? That's what balayage highlighting imitates. And that's why it's my favorite service! It's such a beautiful, natural look. It brightens you up without making you look over-processed.
Want to see some examples?
Gorgeous, right?? Giselle is known for being the first major celebrity to sport this grown-out-highlights look, and she rocks it well, don't you think?
So who is balayage highlighting good for? As you can probably see from the photos, balayage highlighting -- in the pursuit to create a more natural look -- leaves a little bit more root showing than your typical foil highlights, so balayage is great for the woman who isn't afraid to see a little bit of her natural hair color. And guess what? That means that as the highlights grow out, you don't get an obvious line of roots vs. highlights, allowing you to go longer between your appointments. This is a great service for low-maintenance and budget-conscious ladies.
Think you might be interested? Balayage highlights are 20% off with me, this month only! Give us a call at (804) 285-2490 or visit mylabella.com to book an appointment. If you're still not sure, at the very least we can have a consultation and talk about what you have in mind!
I look forward to seeing you!
Susannah
Live, Look, Feel Beautiful
Our slogan is the strategy we live by here at La Bella Hair Studio. Our stylists are highly trained professionals who can keep you to date on the latest trends, as well as give you a style that is personalized to your lifestyle. Our convenient, relaxing location is a getaway experience when you are here.
We started this blog for those who have had bad hair days, but needed a little extra help with tips and techniques to help transform your day to day look. Now it has evolved into a place where you can still get those tips, but also can stay informed on what is going on in our community. We want everyone to embrace the beauty around them-especially the beauty within.
We started this blog for those who have had bad hair days, but needed a little extra help with tips and techniques to help transform your day to day look. Now it has evolved into a place where you can still get those tips, but also can stay informed on what is going on in our community. We want everyone to embrace the beauty around them-especially the beauty within.
It is my mission to help all of us see what true beauty surrounds us.
La Bella Hair Studio. Live, Look, Feel Beautiful
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Featured Stylist of the Month: Susannah
Here at La Bella, we like to consider our salon an intimate, yet upscale environment in which we take pride in personalizing the experience for each and every one of our unique and beautiful clients. Not only that, we are also an extremely tight-knit, family-like group who embraces each other for our own special talents, personalities, and style... after all, each one of us contributes a special ingredient to the recipe that is the La Bella Hair Studio Experience! Month by month we will be featuring a different hairstylist to offer you the opportunity to get to know us better, and to give us the opportunity to shine one by one!
The Featured Stylist for the month of September is....
After graduating from JMU, Susannah completed her apprenticeship at La Bella and is now a Junior Stylist. She has a wide range of interests that have led her to a focus in cosmetology. In addition to being a stylist, she is a beauty blogger at agreatergorgeous.com, and has created her own line of natural lip balms (available at La Bella and online). Susannah’s focus as a stylist is to help clients feel as gorgeous as they can, whether that be through helping them create a new look for themselves or through helping them embrace their natural beauty!
Q: How long have you been in the industry?
The Featured Stylist for the month of September is....
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| Susannah! |
Q: How long have you been in the industry?
A: I've been licensed since March of this year, but since I completed my apprenticeship at La Bella, I've been doing hair here since the summer of 2011.
Q: What is your favorite service to perform, and why?
A:I love to do balayage highlights! They're different from traditional foil highlights because they're painted on in a more free-form way, and the result is much more natural and sun-kissed. Since this technique leaves more root showing and creates an uneven line of highlights, it's perfect for people who want low-maintenance (or low-budget!) highlights. You can go up to 12 weeks between highlights because they grow out in such a natural way!
Q: What are your two favorite products, and why?
A: First is Schwarzkopf's Thrill, which I always use on my male clients who want a little style in their hair without looking like they've got product in. It's a perfect amount of hold, and it's not shiny. Second is UNITE's Blow & Set, which is a miracle for women with hair that resists being styled. I grew up with fine, stick-straight hair, and curling my hair was never worth the effort -- the curls would fall out within an hour or two. But once I found Blow & Set, I could curl my hair and it would still be curly at the end of the day! It's like magic - and it's so light, you can't feel it in your hair.
Q: How would you describe your personal style/niche?
A: I've always been simple and feminine in the way that I dress. Classy, without being preppy. But I love to throw in something bold, like a head scarf or false eyelashes! Simple is good, but it's always fun to try new things.
Q: What is your number one beauty tip?
A: Don't be afraid to try something new, whether it be a hairstyle or makeup look. At first you may feel like it looks strange, but that immediate reaction is usually based on seeing yourself looking so different. Give it 15 minutes, and I guarantee you'll feel like you look totally normal - and you'll get tons of compliments!
Q: What is your favorite quote?
A: "Real style is never right or wrong. It's a matter of being yourself on purpose." G. Bruce Boyer
Now that you know a little more about Susannah, let's see what our team mates had to say about her:
Shandy Myers: " I admire Susannah's passion for the industry. Through everything from her blog to classes, she is always looking for the latest trends and techniques to share with those around her. The best part is that she actually teaches her clients to recreate the trends at home. Overall, she is an awesome stylist, who is dedicated to her clients truly feeling La Bella's motto!"
Sarah Ditulli: "Susannah is a really thorough and careful stylist. She takes a lot of care in developing and evolving her own personal style. I also love that she takes a long time to consult with her clients and really takes pride in giving them exactly what they are looking for!"
Jessie Menz-Crenshaw: "It has been awesome to see Susannah grow and to see her enthusiasm for the beauty industry expand. She started as a receptionist at La Bella and went on to become an apprentice. She is now a Junior Stylist as well as our Media Director, and has created her own beauty blog. She has a great natural artistic ability to make her clients look beautiful and also help people feel beautiful. She is always giving people tips to do simple tricks at home to keep up their style. Her young raw talent and excitement to learn has been an inspiration to our team and I can't wait to see what the future has in store for her!"
Eric-Michael Steward: "I have known Susannah but a little time but I find her enthusiasm and desire to learn about the industry infectious and inspiring, not to mention that she always brings good snacks."
Shanti Lynn (Me): "Susannah has an eye for things many people may overlook- I believe that stems from her passion and drive to achieve perfection with each and everyone of her clients. She is never afraid to ask questions when in doubt, and her receptive quality to any information is uncanny. She has a way of making you feel extremely comfortable opening up to her and trusting her abilities without doubt, and a lot of that is the confidence she exudes on a daily basis! I have loved getting to see her evolve into her own style and know she can and will go far in this industry."
Congrats Suse, and Happy Hair Stylist of the Month to you!
As a big thank you to each and everyone of you from Susannah and the La Bella team were are offering you a couple of awesome deals during the month of September, inspired by her preferred products and services!
For the month of September the Thrill and Blow & Set are buy one get one half off (in any combination of the two)
Trying to get your hair back to a more natural or "fall friendly" color for the fall? Or just simply want to try something new? Come in and get the balayage technique with Susannah during the month of September for 20% off!
Call La Bella today to book your next appointment: (804)285-2490
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Bonus: Fun Facts about Shanti!
**Guest blog from our social media director and beauty blogger over at A Greater Gorgeous, Susannah Craft**
Unfortunately, Shanti's reign as featured stylist of the month is almost done (and so, therefore, is my reign as La Bella guest blogger!).
Unfortunately, Shanti's reign as featured stylist of the month is almost done (and so, therefore, is my reign as La Bella guest blogger!).
One of the biggest reasons we started featuring one of our stylists every month is to allow you, the client, to get to know us each more personally - even if you don't see us to get your hair done! With that in mind, the first blog of the month was intended to highlight Shanti's history as a hairstylist; the second, to highlight Shanti's favorite products; and now, the third, to tell you the fun stuff that you would probably never ask her. Or anybody. Because they're just not the kind of questions that come up in normal, non-hairstylist conversation. :)
If you follow us on Facebook, we've had fun facts about Shanti throughout the month -- but here are some extras!
Who are your style icons? Dita Von Teese, Kat Von D, and Bettie Page
What's your least favorite haircut? Somehow I'm having a difficult time choosing between the mullet and the Kate Gosselin... for obvious reasons.
What's your favorite haircut? Any precision bob with hidden layers throughout the interior - at least that's my favorite to do, I don't think I could pick just one of all time.
What hair color have you always wanted but never tried? Platinum blonde... I'm a closet blonde but could never pull it off so it'll never be attempted. I just live vicariously through my blonde clients.
Who would you choose to be your personal designer if you had an unlimited budget? Not to be redundant but Dita Von Teese has designed throwback dresses and I absolutely love her style! She is all around flawless and inspiring.
Which celeb always has great hair? Kim Kardashian always has amazing hair, and David Beckham never disappoints. He is constantly setting trends for men everywhere.
What was your favorite hair decade? The 60's
Who is your favorite stylist of all time? Vidal Sassoon
What would be your dream event to do hair for? The Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows!! The hair is always jaw dropping and it would be such a dream come true to have a part in it.
If you could "hair" study abroad for an extended period of time, where and why? Probably Japan, because they are always doing so many futuristic things with fashion and the men are just as adventurous, it seems.
We're all sad to see Shanti's reign end, but on September 3rd, you'll find out who September's Featured Stylist of the Month is - as well as what we'll be offering at a discount next month!
What's your least favorite haircut? Somehow I'm having a difficult time choosing between the mullet and the Kate Gosselin... for obvious reasons.
What's your favorite haircut? Any precision bob with hidden layers throughout the interior - at least that's my favorite to do, I don't think I could pick just one of all time.
What hair color have you always wanted but never tried? Platinum blonde... I'm a closet blonde but could never pull it off so it'll never be attempted. I just live vicariously through my blonde clients.
Who would you choose to be your personal designer if you had an unlimited budget? Not to be redundant but Dita Von Teese has designed throwback dresses and I absolutely love her style! She is all around flawless and inspiring.
Which celeb always has great hair? Kim Kardashian always has amazing hair, and David Beckham never disappoints. He is constantly setting trends for men everywhere.
What was your favorite hair decade? The 60's
Who is your favorite stylist of all time? Vidal Sassoon
What would be your dream event to do hair for? The Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows!! The hair is always jaw dropping and it would be such a dream come true to have a part in it.
If you could "hair" study abroad for an extended period of time, where and why? Probably Japan, because they are always doing so many futuristic things with fashion and the men are just as adventurous, it seems.
We're all sad to see Shanti's reign end, but on September 3rd, you'll find out who September's Featured Stylist of the Month is - as well as what we'll be offering at a discount next month!
Friday, August 16, 2013
A Closer Look at Moroccan Oil and Unite's Lazer Straight
As mentioned in our previous post, I (Shanti Lynn) am the featured stylist of the month at La Bella Hair Studio and with each featured stylist comes featured products--with amazing deals for you! In case you aren't familiar with Unite's Lazer Straight and Moroccanoil Treatment, (or you just want to get to know them a little better) this will help you decide whether or not they are for you--and if so, hurry in and get them before the month of August is over!
Unite's Lazer Straight: Since the first time I ever was introduced to this product, I was in love. Unlike a lot of straightening aids, this one is great for any texture and thickness of hair. The first impression you get as soon as you put some in your hands is the delectable aroma that reminds you of cake batter. Warning: although you may be tempted to taste it, this product is not edible--yeah it smells that good. Once you get past the first smell, it's time to see and feel what it can do for you...and I promise you, it works wonders. On the bottle it reads "Lazer Straight: Relaxing Fluid" although it can hardly be characterized as a relaxer given that it's chemical free and it's benefits are solely for styling purposes: it's main job is to smooth down the cuticle, soften the hair, reduce the amount of curl making flat-ironing an easier feat, enhance a weightless shine, and block out humidity making your sleek 'do last until your next shampoo (hence the name "Relaxing Fluid") But what's in it that sets it apart from all of the other straightening aids? Lazer Straight is fully equipped with UV filters, heat protectors, and color-locking antioxidant botanisil (extending the longevity of artificial or natural hair color and tones). Unite is also famous for what is NOT in their products, because that isalmost more just as important as what's in it. Lazer Straight is free of sulfates, sodium chloride, MEA, DEA, glutens, and parabens making this product a perfect pairing for that Keratin Treatment you just got. Oh, and did I mention they DO NOT test on animals and all of their products are Vegan friendly? Seriously, this product is for anyone.
Just use a dime to nickel size amount depending on thickness of hair, rub it in your hands; and if you have a lower volume of curl start from mid-strand to ends, but if you're hair is overly curly you can go ahead and apply from root to ends. Comb it through your hair, continue by blow drying with a paddle brush to smooth it out, and finish with a flat iron for touch ups if necessary.
Moroccanoil Treatment: I consider this product liquid gold for it's amazing qualities and benefits for the hair. This is also a great product for any hair texture or thickness. It's versatile, nourishing, and residue free formula is best used for conditioning as an overnight treatment, styling used on the hair wet, and finishing tool adding shine to already dry hair. It perfectly pairs with any product and can also speed up drying time by 40% making your life and styling routine that much easier. The way it works? It absorbs instantly to fill gaps created by heat, sun damage, styling, and environmental damage. It is known to completely transform and repair your hair--although you instantly feel a difference in your hair, over time the results get better and better--it transports lost proteins for strength. What's in it? Fatty acids, omega-3 oils/vitamins for shine, and also contains antioxidants for protection. Basically, it works as food for the hair and instead of resting on the outside of the cuticle (which would weigh the hair down) it is absorbed into the hair creating weightless shine and giving your hair the opportunity to bounce back from everyday wear and tear.
A dime to nickel sized amount is also sufficient with the Moroccanoil Treatment. If using for styling: work it through the hair mid-strand to ends paired with yourLazer Straight other fave product and comb it through, followed by whatever styling method you have chosen. If you are using for finishing, a pea to dime sized amount is perfect: rub into hands and flip your already dry hair upside down working the product from the nape of the hair, to the front ends, ending with whatever is left over on your hands over your part. If you are using as a treatment overnight, a quarter sized amount is great: work it through root to ends, throw your hair up in a bun, and rinse out in the morning!
Both of these products alone are absolutely amazing in giving your hair extra shine to make it through the humid seasons, and add moisture and strength to make it through the drier seasons as well. Together they make the perfect combo to master that sleek look you have been working towards.
Come in La Bella today to take advantage of the August special we are having for the Lazer Straight and Moroccanoil. The special is as follows: BOGO half off...meaning buy one Lazer Straight-get another half off, buy one Moroccanoil Treatment-get another half off, or buy one Moroccanoil Treatment-get a Lazer Straight for half off. The last day to get this great deal is Saturday August 31st!
And don't forget: The Keratin Treatment is 20% off (when added onto another service) for the month of August as well. It's an amazing smoothing treatment that is chemical free, gets rid of frizz, and can reduce up to 80% of curl.
**Call La Bella to book your next (or first) Keratin Treatment: (804)285-2490
Unite's Lazer Straight: Since the first time I ever was introduced to this product, I was in love. Unlike a lot of straightening aids, this one is great for any texture and thickness of hair. The first impression you get as soon as you put some in your hands is the delectable aroma that reminds you of cake batter. Warning: although you may be tempted to taste it, this product is not edible--yeah it smells that good. Once you get past the first smell, it's time to see and feel what it can do for you...and I promise you, it works wonders. On the bottle it reads "Lazer Straight: Relaxing Fluid" although it can hardly be characterized as a relaxer given that it's chemical free and it's benefits are solely for styling purposes: it's main job is to smooth down the cuticle, soften the hair, reduce the amount of curl making flat-ironing an easier feat, enhance a weightless shine, and block out humidity making your sleek 'do last until your next shampoo (hence the name "Relaxing Fluid") But what's in it that sets it apart from all of the other straightening aids? Lazer Straight is fully equipped with UV filters, heat protectors, and color-locking antioxidant botanisil (extending the longevity of artificial or natural hair color and tones). Unite is also famous for what is NOT in their products, because that is
Just use a dime to nickel size amount depending on thickness of hair, rub it in your hands; and if you have a lower volume of curl start from mid-strand to ends, but if you're hair is overly curly you can go ahead and apply from root to ends. Comb it through your hair, continue by blow drying with a paddle brush to smooth it out, and finish with a flat iron for touch ups if necessary.
Moroccanoil Treatment: I consider this product liquid gold for it's amazing qualities and benefits for the hair. This is also a great product for any hair texture or thickness. It's versatile, nourishing, and residue free formula is best used for conditioning as an overnight treatment, styling used on the hair wet, and finishing tool adding shine to already dry hair. It perfectly pairs with any product and can also speed up drying time by 40% making your life and styling routine that much easier. The way it works? It absorbs instantly to fill gaps created by heat, sun damage, styling, and environmental damage. It is known to completely transform and repair your hair--although you instantly feel a difference in your hair, over time the results get better and better--it transports lost proteins for strength. What's in it? Fatty acids, omega-3 oils/vitamins for shine, and also contains antioxidants for protection. Basically, it works as food for the hair and instead of resting on the outside of the cuticle (which would weigh the hair down) it is absorbed into the hair creating weightless shine and giving your hair the opportunity to bounce back from everyday wear and tear.
A dime to nickel sized amount is also sufficient with the Moroccanoil Treatment. If using for styling: work it through the hair mid-strand to ends paired with your
Both of these products alone are absolutely amazing in giving your hair extra shine to make it through the humid seasons, and add moisture and strength to make it through the drier seasons as well. Together they make the perfect combo to master that sleek look you have been working towards.
Come in La Bella today to take advantage of the August special we are having for the Lazer Straight and Moroccanoil. The special is as follows: BOGO half off...meaning buy one Lazer Straight-get another half off, buy one Moroccanoil Treatment-get another half off, or buy one Moroccanoil Treatment-get a Lazer Straight for half off. The last day to get this great deal is Saturday August 31st!
And don't forget: The Keratin Treatment is 20% off (when added onto another service) for the month of August as well. It's an amazing smoothing treatment that is chemical free, gets rid of frizz, and can reduce up to 80% of curl.
**Call La Bella to book your next (or first) Keratin Treatment: (804)285-2490
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Featured Stylist of the Month: Shanti Lynn
**Guest blog by La Bella's Social Media Director and beauty blogger at A Greater Gorgeous, Susannah Craft**
Here at La Bella, we like to consider our salon an intimate, yet upscale environment in which we take pride in personalizing the experience for each and every one of our unique and beautiful clients. Not only that, we are also an extremely tight-knit, family-like group who embraces each other for our own special talents, personalities, and style... after all, each one of us contributes a special ingredient to the recipe that is the La Bella Hair Studio Experience! Month by month we will be featuring a different hairstylist to offer you the opportunity to get to know us better, and to give us the opportunity to shine one by one!
The Featured Stylist of the Month for August is....
Shanti Lynn!
Shanti is our associate stylist and Artistic Director, who decided to follow her passion of hairstyling when she began cosmetology school in 2005. After a year of school, she continued her education through an apprenticeship. She gained a vast knowledge through hands-on experience and went on to obtain her instructor license. She then began mentoring and educating students.
Shanti has expanded her knowledge through many local classes and studied in New York. She has attended a wide range of product classes including Bumble and bumble, Wella, UNITE, and Schwarzkopf, and she has styled for fashion shows, photo shoots & movie trailers. She specializes in the dry cutting technique, has a passion for color, and loves doing up-dos for any occasion!
Let's get to know her better!
Q: How long have you been in the industry?
A: 8 years
Q: What is your favorite service to preform, and why?
A: The Keratin Treatment, both the full treatment and the Blowout Express. Not only is the Keratin Treatment known to potentially reduce curl by up to 80%, it also reduces all frizz and strengthens the hair by reconstructing the keratin protein- this creates more shine and versatility in the hair. It is also chemical free and safe with color which makes the Keratin treatment a girl's secret weapon for summertime humidity!
Q: What are your two favorite products, and why?
A: UNITE's Lazer Straight and Moroccan Oil treatment. Lazer Straight is a perfect product to compliment a Keratin Treatment (and any hair for that matter) by relaxing the hair temporarily with smoothing agents and silicone shine which reduces frizz for a polished finish. It also contains UV filters, heat protectors, and has color locking antioxidant molecules which prolong the life of natural and artificial color. Moroccan Oil speaks for itself -- it's liquid gold, in my opinion! Unlike most oils it doesn't coat the hair and weigh it down -- it's like food for the hair, which gets absorbed over time. It also stimulates healthy hair growth and reduces drying time by 40%.
Q: How would you describe your personal style/niche?
A: Rockabilly, most definitely. My style portrays my rock and roll side, while embracing and channeling a pin-up-inspired look through my hair and makeup (though I do my make-up more dramatically than the original pin-up style) It's edgy, yet classic. Music and fashion culture combined, originating in the 1950's and carried on through today. I love my style! It completely sets me apart and I couldn't see myself any other way.
Q:What is your number one beauty tip?
A: Everyday, do at least one thing to make yourself feel beautiful. Whether it's putting on a little mascara, curling a few pieces around your face, trying a new lipstick, or playing around with braids--you will be surprised how much better you will feel day in and day out. The way we feel about ourselves directly effects our social interactions, daily routines, and love lives. We should always feel beautiful.
Q: What is your favorite quote?
A: "We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses." Abraham Lincoln
Here's what some of our other team members had to say about Shanti...
Jessie: "Shanti is a great asset to our team! Her drive and confidence exudes itself in her leadership skills. She has stepped up as our artistic director and keeps our team both inspired and motivated. Above all things, what makes Shanti unique is her honesty. She not only sincerely compliments her team but also is open with her clients and truly recommends what she feels best suits their needs. She is a true talent and I'm glad to have her as a key player on our team!"
Shandy: "Shanti is one of the best stylists I have ever seen. Her confidence in her work gives me something to aspire to. She knows what she's doing, she knows how to make the client happy, and she knows what is going to look good for them. That's why her clients keep coming back to her and what makes her the great stylist she is!"
Susannah: "Shanti taught me to find & own the technique that works best for me as a stylist instead of trying to conform to someone else's standards. She uses dry cutting techniques because it's simply what works better for her, and she's not afraid of what other stylists think of a less common technique like dry cutting. I learned from Shanti the foiling technique that I now use on every foiled highlight, and she was so helpful when I was trying to learn it! She's great to talk to about different ideas & options, always lending her opinions without shutting down everyone else's. She's a great person to work with!"
Sarah: "Shanti is gifted with people. She has the uncanny ability to make her clients feel like they're old friends even though she just met them! She also has an amazing sense of humor about herself and life -- she's a blast to be around."
Eric Michael: "I've had the honor and privilege of knowing Shanti since the beginning of her career. I have watched her grow and flourish as a stylist, and have come to know her as a friend. I am continually amazed at her ability and her desire to grow and develop professionally, not to mention personally. She's a beautiful friend, loving mother and fantastic human being."
As a big thank you to our clients from the La Bella team, we are offering some specials this month on Shanti's favorite products and services!
In August only, add a Keratin treatment (blowout or full treatment) to your service and get 20% off of the Keratin treatment!**
AND... Shanti's favorite products, Lazer Straight and Moroccan Oil, are Buy One Get One Half Off for the month of August! This deal applies to the purchase of one of each product OR two of one product. Drop by today to pick up your products or call La Bella at (804) 285-2490 to add a Keratin treatment onto your August appointment!
**The treatment must be paired with another cut or color service to receive the discount.
Monday, July 8, 2013
Featured Stylist of the Month: Eric-Michael
Here at La Bella, we like to consider our salon an intimate, yet upscale environment in which we take pride in personalizing the experience for each and every one of our unique and beautiful clients. Not only that, we are also an extremely tight-knit, family-like group who embraces each other for our own special talents, personalities, and style....after all, each one of us contributes a special ingredient to the recipe that is the La Bella Hair Studio Experience! Month by month we will be featuring a different hairstylist to offer you the opportunity to get to know us better, and to give us the opportunity to shine one by one!
The Featured Stylist of the Month is.....
Drum roll please......
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| Eric-Michael! |
Needless to say, he is an amazing asset to the team and not only offers top notch client experience, but also a helping hand for each of us if we are ever in need. He is just absolutely fabulous!
Let's get to know him a little better!
Q: What is your favorite service to preform, and why?
A: I love doing updos because not only do I have the opportunity to show my creative side, but updos are always for a special occasion, and it is a great feeling to know you helped someone feel beautiful on her special day.
(In my own personal opinion, Eric-Michael is a master at updos, having taught me how to do them when I first started in the industry. I have always admired his attention to detail, effortless patience, and artistic flow he has with every updo I have seen him do over the past 7 years of working with him.)
Q: What are your two favorite products, and why?
A: Unite's 7 Second Condition and Schwarzkopf Dust It. 7 Seconds evens out the porosity of the hair, aids in evenly distributing products throughout the hair (avoiding build up), and has the element of heat/SPF protection. Dust It is an amazing volumizer which works great layered with other products or alone, unlike the common use I prefer to use it on wet hair for more control, and it is completely water soluble so you don't have to over shampoo to get it out!
Q: How would you describe your personal style/niche?
A: I would describe my personal style as body conscious and fashion forward...meaning I dress to accentuate my best features with form fitting clothes. I like to use my body as my number one accessory since I have worked so hard to build and maintain my physique! At the same time I am driven by trends and I am NOT label driven. Simple does it: I look for in clothes what I look for in hair...I like simple form and not a lot of distraction with color and texture.
Q: What is your number one beauty tip?
A: ALWAYS protect your skin by using sun protection, and invest in good products because you will be thankful for it in the long run.
Q: What is your favorite quote?
A: "I had to make my own living and my own opportunity. But I made it! Don't sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them." - Sarah Breedlove aka Madam CJ Walker
Not only was I able to get Eric-Michael to share with us his personal opinions on hair, fashion, and products....I also got to gather some amazing quotes from our coworkers on their own opinions about Eric-Michael as a key member of the La Bella Family. Check it out:
Susannah Craft: "Eric-Michael is so generous with his knowledge and time-- he is always offering to help us out if we need it, and he's more than willing to be a sounding board for new ideas!"
Shandy Myers: "Eric-Michael is one of the best teachers I could have asked for. His technical ability is awesome, but it's his willingness to give each client a look that both reflects them and stays modern that truly makes him a great artist."
Sarah Ditulli: "I'm always amazed at Eric-Michael's compassion for his clients, professionalism, and desire to educate others about hair. His comic story-telling abilities are also one of his greatest and most unforgettable attributes!"
Shanti Lynn (Me): "I am lucky enough to say that from the first day I started my career I have worked next to Eric-Michael. He was my mentor when I was an apprentice who quickly assumed the role as somewhat of a life mentor in the long run. I am privileged enough to not have only learned the ins and outs of this industry from such a brilliant teacher, but also to have learned so much about life from an amazing friend. No matter how long I have been licensed, I feel I can always go to him whenever I need an extra pair of eyes, and no matter how long I have been an adult I feel I can go to him for an unbiased productive outlook on absolutely anything that comes my way. Any one who has had the pleasure of meeting him knows how special of a person he is, and I am honored to be able to call him my friend."
Jessie: "Eric-Michael is a valuable asset to our team. He has stepped up as educational director and given our whole team a new level of expertise to strive for. He also brings so much passion to everything he does, from designing hairstyles to telling stories and even engaging with his coworkers, as well as all of our guests. I'm glad he is a part of our family here!"
We love you Eric-Michael! And Happy Hair Stylist of the Month to you!
As a big thank you to each and everyone of you from Eric-Michael and the La Bella team were are offering you a couple of awesome deals during the month of July, inspired by his preferred products and services!
For the month of July the 7Seconds Condition and Dust It are buy one get one half off (in any combination of the two)
Do you have an event coming up? (Even something as simple as a romantic date night) Schedule an updo with Eric-Michael for the month of July OR add it on to an existing appointment and receive 20% off!
Call La Bella today to book your next appointment with our Master Stylist, Eric-Michael!
(804)285-2490
Friday, May 10, 2013
The Looks of La Brezza: Napoli
Since "romantic" is my favorite word referring to the Napoli hairstyle, I believe this is your "go to" look for any and every formal event you have coming up. Whether it's a black tie fundraiser, your company's holiday party, or you are a glorified bridesmaid in your bff's wedding: this is the best alternative to an updo. Opting for the Napoli instead of an updo gives you more flexibility with accessorizing so you can feel comfortable looking your best but still look like you (which is extremely important) Don't let the formal tendencies of this curly 'do scare you off, it can still be dressed down for an everyday feel. Bouncy hair would be a great way to sum up a flirty look paired with that new maxi dress you've been trying to debut, or the cute summer dress you've had in hiding awaiting the perfect excuse to pull it out (now you have it!)
As always, a little "celebspiration" never hurt anyone...and this is personally my favorite part!
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| Rihanna (my personal fave) looks absolutely stunning , rocking the Napoli style with a gorgeous gown and diamond encrusted ear rings for a more formal look |
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| Selena Gomez looks adorable with the Napoli style. Paired with hoop earrings, it brings a less formal feel to this look. |
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| "WOW" is all that comes to mind, and though this pic is obviously from a few months back I was overwhelmed with the amount of pics I had to choose from with the Kardashians rocking both the Napoli and Portofino. Here, Kim Kardashian not only makes a statement by featuring a beautifully bold red lip, but also dares to wear her curls with a center part (which is a great idea for you to try something new!) |
So the next time you find yourself wondering how you should wear you hair for your husband's company winter party, or your next high school reunion (because you don't feel it necessary to have an updo) come to La Bella to get your first Le Brezza service and ask for the Napoli! Like mentioned before, it is the best alternative to an updo and is a style that would last you through the entire weekend without getting flat to your head...even if you suffer from oily hair syndrome dry shampoo would help maintain any of the La Brezza hairstyles until your next wash.
Just remember you don't always need a reason to get to the salon and have your hair styled...because YOU are a good enough reason!
Call La Bella today to request your first La Brezza Experience: (804)258-2490
La Brezza, a breath of fresh air for great hair on the go.
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