Hand Tied Weft

I was invited to attend a 3 day training in Seattle with Aqua hair extension company. At the training we learned everything “hand tied weft” related. We learned how to install, remove, and maintenance the beautiful Hand tied weft products that Aqua retails. These wefts are so gorgeous and delicate they are truly a work of art.

The 3 day intensive class also allowed me to meet 14 other incredible stylists who are also working part to full time at installing and maintaining hair extension. It was so nice to have some in person conversations with stylists who are dealing with the same problems that you are, and to find some new solutions.

Aqua’s method of hand tied installation differs from other brands of professional hair extensions. Aqua takes the health of the client’s hair very seriously and wants to help the stylist to keep the natural hair intact, without adding stress or pressure at installation points. The health of the hair is a number one priority!

If you are curious about the Aqua method I am able to show you in person. You can either book a consultation with me or if you are with a salon you can convince some of your team members to go in on a full day class.

#handtiedweft #handtiedweftboise #beadedweft

That’s my girl xoxo

More Hair Books

Here are a few more books that I have recently read. Some of them I have liked so much that I have re-read them.

My oldest daughter really likes doing nail design these days so we have a few nails books in the mix.

This is another incredible book from the Curly Girl Queen Lorraine Massey. She has managed to yet again help women to feel their very best while being their most natural selves. I love that! If you need inspiration to ditch the dye and want to know how you can get through it, this is the book for you.

A simple and well photographed guidebook to some of the styles that you see routinely but may have trouble figuring out how to create

If you have a fun party coming up for any reason this book can provide you with tons of inspiration! Pincurls, beehives, roller sets. The higher the hair the closer to God.

This is the Dry Bar owner guidebook. The Dry Bar has cuts names for all their styles, the Mai Thai, The Martini, all the blow out’s are explained in detail for you to re-create on your own at home. Your shoulders will get a work out from this book!

The author of this book did an incredible job in considering the hair texture, length and density for each style and nobody is left out. There are some really fantastic looking styes in here that somehow are simply explained.

Keune

I just completed a Keune introductory color class. I learned a lot about their permanent, semi-permanent and blonding line. I have been doing research over the last year on a variety of color lines, debating which line I should switch to and Keune checks all the boxes. Keune is a salon exclusive company, meaning that they only sell to professionals this is very important to me! Keune provides ample education opportunities both online and in person. Keune formulates all their products with the greatest of care not only for the health of the hair, and the health of the stylist, but also for the look and longevity of the color. Keune offers incredible grey coverage whether you want a translucent look or more opaque.

The options that Keune offers to blondes really blew me away as well. They have cream bleaches, clay based bleaches and powdered bleaches, each of them have distinct advantages. No more one size fits all color removal. Keune offers so many options!

Another important factor for me is the ability to order online. I am not the kind of stylist who goes to a supply store to purchase 2 tubes of this and 3 tubes of that. I want the entire line at my fingertips and I want a constant supply of it. I like to place large online orders using a carefully crafted list. Also, staying out of the supply stores saves me money on random impulse buys.

A big thank you to the educator today, Tyree Ward for taking the time to teach about Keune. I was very grateful to be in the midst of a class of stylists today to listen to their questions and hear their personal solutions. Now I need to find out more about that intro kit…

Hair Books

I really enjoy reading so it makes sense that I would enjoy hair research through both word and photography. Picking up a book to do this research is so much better than browsing site after site, being distracted by one youtube video after another. I am going old school! I am also reaching out to some of the stylists in my community to research their particular methods and preferences.

Here are a few that I have read recently and really enjoyed.

This book does a phenomenal job of explaining in great detail the human hair trading industry. I really enjoyed this book, but it’s obviously not for everyone, because it is a long book with very few pictures, and frankly unless you’re in the hair industry you probably don’t want to see the pictures anyway.

This book was written by a former Johnson & Johnson research scientist. He attempts to explain the fact that nobody knows what causes hair loss. He also has a fascinating description of how the hair follicles cycle like the phases of the moon.

A funky little book for anyone who wants to tame unruly hair or just be more hip and edgy in general.

Cultural stories of hair and it’s importance and significance for different people

This is a little older but still very relevant. Robert Vetica has some serious A-list clients who love to sing his praise. This is somewhat of a recipe book for all types of hair.

Online Booking

I have online booking available now. Follow the link below to book the appointment that suits your schedule. If you are unable to find an appointment please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate your needs.

Clink on the link below and it will take you to my booking site.

Hair extensions at your convenience

I am excited to offer a unique hair extension service regionally. Hair extensions done in the comfort of your own environment. I have so many clients who have to reschedule appointments because of personal or work plans that get in the way. I wanted to solve this problem by offering that I come to your home or office to perform a full hair extension installation and/or removal. The service would take between 2-4 hours depending on the amount of hair desired. 

Included in this exclusive service would be an exclusive hair extension care kit which includes a booklet of information I have compiled over the years to give you the best possible outcomes in every area of concern. Also included is a hair extension brush and a few key products that I recommend for the longevity and beauty of your hair extensions. 

If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity please contact me at 208.841.1090

EXTENSION CONSULTATION

Thank You!

I would just like to take a minute to say thank you to all of my clients. I love my career and it wouldn't be possible without your kindness and generosity. Every appointment you show up for, every client you refer to me propels me further towards my goals. Thank you for all the encouragement you gave me in finishing my book, Does this career make me look dumb?.

I want to extend my gratitude for your patience and devotion to my industry, in exchange I give you my personal time and attention to your ongoing concerns and evolving inspiration. 

Thank you!

Words nobody wants you to use to describe their hair

• Witchy      
• Thin
• Limp
• Dead
• Stringy
• Over processed 
• Shaggy
• Musty
• Wooly
• Shedding

• Chunks
• Crispy
• Whack it off
• Teased
• Scraggly
• Fine
• Tangled
• Smelly
• Bushy
• Thinning

Sombré

Sombré is a variation of Ombré. Ombré is the gradual blending of one color hue into another. Sombré is just a softer version of that gradation. In order to achieve a true Ombré there needs to be a difference of at least 4-5 levels on the color scale. On the hair color scale 10 is the blondest hair, 1 is the darkest hair. For a true Ombré, if the client's ends are a level 10 her roots need to be a 6 or darker. The Sombré color doesn't need to have that drastic of an effect. You can achieve a similar result with only a variation of 2-3 levels difference between the roots and the ends. This allows the client to try out a trend without having to commit to a drastic color process. Most of the focus will be on the ends while maintaining the depth and shine at the roots. 

I use the balayage method of application for both the Ombré and the Sombré method. Pictured below you will see that i am using a paddle to help provide a backing as I paint the highlights onto the hair. The process of painting the color on in large sections allows for the ends of the hair to receive a lot of color, which is crucial is achieving a successful Sombré. 

Advanced extension education

Cosmetology is unique in its lack of education requirements. After completing the required hours at school and passing the licensing test a cosmetologist requires 0 hours of continuing education throughout their career. None, nada, zip. This explains why the standard of professionalism is so low. We are never encouraged to become experts in the industry. 

Luckily there are an abundance of educational opportunities available in every state. They are typically associated with a brand or a product line which means that they are not necessarily giving you an unbiased education. They are training you to be a professional in their particular brand. Hey we will take what we can get. 

Extension education is different. Although a student of cosmetology is qualified to install and remove extensions upon completion of the required school hours and passing of the state test, extensions are hardly touched upon in school. There are a handful of extensions companies who will all try to convince you that they offer the best hair and installation method. Most of these companies will charge you, a lot, to be certified in their methods therefore allowing you to purchase their hair. The fact that these companies still continue to teach the same 4-6 methods of installation and never progress past the initial installation boggles my mind.

This is why I am developing the curriculum to teach advanced extension education. There is so much to know beyond the basics of "this is how you install the hair".    

Extensions are so much fun and so lucrative. There are so many things that need to be covered, from becoming a hair broker, to recruiting new clients, to moving beyond the initial hair company that you are certified in. 

Stay tuned for more on this educational opportunity. 

Extension extravaganza

It's been all extensions these days! I have been ordering all sorts of extensions. There are so many  different colors and installation methods. If you are thinking about scheduling a consultation for extensions do it soon! My full time schedule is filling up quickly. 

I also registered for a extension class in Arizona. The class is in December which will be the perfect excuse to get out of Boise in the winter. I hope it's an incredible 2 day class. 

Does this career make me look dumb?

 I have finally finished my career guidebook, Does this career make me look dumb? It took me 2 years as a part time project, also competing with my part time career in cosmetology, and my full time job of raising two girls. I have been in the cosmetology industry for 13 years, licensed for 11 of them. 

When I was considering cosmetology as a career I had a lot of questions. I wanted to know what my chances of being successful were in the industry. I wanted to know what mistakes people made along the way. I wanted to know what beauty school would be like on a day to day basis. I wanted to know how to build a business and be successful at it. This book is an attempt to guide anyone interested along that pretend path.

Spend a few hours with my guidebook and you will either want to enter beauty school or run the other direction. It could save potential students from making a financial mistake. It will assist those who decide to enter the world of cosmetology in making the right decisions for their personal path. 

Currently it is only available through amazon.com, it will be available in print within the next few months. 

 Does this career make me look dumb

If you read it and make a comment I will give you a free hair service!

End of summer hair

What needs to be done? 

Bare minimum you need a haircut. Snip off all those dead ends and get rid of that summer singe.

A deep conditioning treatment is also recommended. You can go with a professional in-salon treatment which will use products that alter the structure of the hair. An in-salon treatment will have more immediate results on the hair. If you are the type of person who will neglect extra treatment at home because you don't have the time or energy for it then this is the treatment for you.

You can also purchase a take home treatment. A take home will have more sustained effect on your strands. If you're into super soft luxurious hair and extra time spent in the shower then this is best for you.

Some people choose both of those options, because spoiling your hair feels so good. 

If you are looking for a update to your blonde or a new hue to your brunette than now is the perfect time to do it. Most clients choose to go a little darker during the fall to mimic the effects of less sun in their hair. 

Let your stylist direct you.

Your hair care products can also start to change. I would switch from a Damage Remedy line to the Dry Remedy line. Since you probably won't be swimming as much or styling your hair for those late summer nights you can move away from the protein enhanced shampoo's and conditioner's. Wool and fleece hats are the next concern. These can leech moisture from your hair and also leave it feeling frizzy. Try extra moisture by using the Dry Remedy oil. You will only need a few drops. 

Amber Waves-Jennifer Bridges

Cosmetology School

Are you considering cosmetology school? Are you looking for answers on what it will be like? Wondering what the next year of your life will entail? You may also be wondering what it will be like for you after school is over and you are ready to start your career. Surprisingly there are few books on this topic. I'm working to change that. I want to give students and potential students the opportunity to research their career before it ever begins.  

Capturing the true cosmetology school experience can obviously only be done by someone who has been through school, which I have. I am also a professional stylist with 7 years in the industry now. 

I will cover many topics including these

• How to date a school
• How to tour a school
• How to choose a school
• How to get the best deal on pricing
• What is included in your kit
• What your first few weeks will be like
• What the next few months will be like
• How to make the most of your time in school
• Re-examine the fundamentals of hair cuts and color from a real world perspective
• How to get past the drama
• What you should and shouldn't worry about when preparing for your state examinations
• How to find a job
• How to build a clientele
• How to be successful as a stylist
• Book-keeping and taxes for stylists
• Bigger and better opportunities
• And much, much more

So I need feedback. What other topics are there questions on? What resources so far have you found to answer your questions? 

Keep it in the family

Have you ever been told by a professional who is rendering service to you that you need to use the entire family of products to achieve a synergistic effect? I have, quite a few times. Let me tell you why they are mistaken.

This is old news, sort of a sales pitch/wives tale invented by some marketing genius to get you to spend more with their company. Almost all of the different families of products contain somewhat similar ingredients and the are also manufactured by one of the few major manufacturing facilities that exist in the USA. Let me rephrase it this way, same general ingredients, same manufacturers, different labeling and packaging.

No all products don't contain the same ingredients for example, there are good ingredients and there are cheap ingredients. Companies like Suave and Pantene use cheaper, harsher and more abrasive ingredients in their products to produce their $3 shampoo. The results you get from these cheap ingredients can be dryer hair and skin, breakouts along your hairline, a waxy build-up in your hair (ehhhm Pantene) or severe drying of your skin. Companies like Alterna and Kevin.Murphy use more costly ingredients which results in a refined product. They tend to eliminate synthetic preservatives (parabens) and GMO (soy, corn) so your body and our environment doesn't have to pay they price. So if you use a Suave shampoo it will not make you Alterna conditioner any less effective, but trust me that Suave shampoo is making your color fade way faster and isn't benefiting the health of your hair and scalp at all. 

So when you are out choosing products just keep in mind what options are the most important to you. Is it cost? Is it the quality of the ingredients? Are you looking for a targeted result (stiff, soft, color protecting) Is it the design of the product (how it fits in your hand, stays upright in your shower, dispenses easily) Whatever decision you make know that your product is working despite the fact that you haven't purchased it's companion or two or three. I personally like to try 1 to 2 items in a line before I will commit to purchasing any more. Suit yourself.

Brazilian Blowout

Curious as to what this treatment can do for you?

It can reduce your styling time dramatically. By smoothing the cuticle with a treatment it eliminates or drastically reduces your flat iron time in the morning.

It will reduce frizz. Wether your hair is curly or straight we all experience a bit of frizz that is disappointing. The keratin treatment will put the frizz on hold.

Re-texture your curly hair. It will not eliminate your curls, it will smooth and transform them. Depending on the results you desire I have a few different strength options to choose from.

Make you feel like a star! When you blow dry your hair and get to stop there without further styling or fussing with your locks you will feel like you have received a Hollywood blow-out for weeks on end.

Brazilian Blowout ZERO 

Brazilian Blowout Original Acai

I am running a special on the treatment through November. Let's book your appointment today. Just think of all the time you will save over the holidays.

LUSH Cosmetics

I stumbled upon LUSH Cosmetics when I was in Seattle recently. The exterior of the store called to me "come in, come buy something" so when I stepped in I was already excited. They have piles of fresh handmade soaps, creamy face wash bars, shampoo bars and all sorts of other goodies. The staff was very friendly and upon learning that it was my fist time in the store they gave me a quick run down of they products that they loved the most, although it seemed rather hard for them to choose. Another perk of the company is that almost everything is Vegetarian and quite a few products are Vegan. I can't wait to gift them to my friends for Christmas.

I was drawn to the facial products because I tend to have too many shower items already, but now I want a great deal more, o.k. I want everything. I am already planning my return to the store when I am back in February because I can't wait to get my hands on some of the fresh face masks that aren't sold online. I have actually had dreams about shopping here again, that's how pleasant it was. When I woke up I felt like a home-sick kid longing for the comforts of their familiar territory. So I felt the next best thing to fulfill that craving would be to place a on-line order. Here are a few of the items on my long list.

Big fragrant blocks of colorful soap. All Soaps are vegetarian. Most are vegan too. Try this one SEXY PEEL a combination of organic orange and lime juices. 

CURLY WURLY is packed full of creamed coconut and coconut oil for healthy hair and scalp. It's also loaded with fresh eggs and hand mashed avocado butter to give moisture back to the hair

BIG is a va-va-volumizing sea salt shampoo. Using a seaweed infusion and citrus juices for incredible shine and sea salt to de-grease hair and remove dead skin cells.

MA BAR Is a fresh handmade bubble bar for your bath or shower. This one is a scrumptious chocolate caramel scent with a lump of brown sugar in the middle.

DREAM CREAM is nothing short of a miracle product. This cream has been making skin care dreams come true for years now. It is a combination of lavender, chamomile, and rose absolute in a soothing oat milk base. You can use it all over your body and face. This is LUSH's number one best selling product of all time!!

Fresh Handmade Face Masks: These masks are so scrumptious and fresh that they are only sold in the stores. They are stored in a mini refrigerator at each location and I was so sad to learn they couldn't be shipped because I would have purchased at least 4-5 more of them when on location. So if you ever do make it into a store, our closest locations are Salt Lake City, Portland, and Seattle, stock up. My favorite is SACRED TRUTH which is a brightening, restorative mask. It's so hard to choose between the 9 that they offer. Why not purchase all of them?

Tell me which products you would choose?

Sombre

Sombre is going to be the hottest hair trend this fall/winter. What is it? To explain I will have to start with Ombre. Ombre is a french word meaning graduation. In my world (the salon) it means a a base that is at least 3-4 levels darker than the ends. To most people it means I can have visible roots, long ones and bright pretty ends. It reduces your color maintenance, because "your roots" are visible and beautiful when you leave your appointment. If your natural color is lighter than your chosen base color, or you have grey hair this means that you can have every other appointment at the salon be a root touch up and the following appointment be a Ombre procedure. It's fun, it's beautiful, it's trendy but it's easy to carry off. You don't have to be 16 or have really long thick hair, or lots of money to spend on your hair.

Sombre takes the traditional process of Ombre and makes it a little more subtle, or subdued hence the S-Ombre. Kim Vo calls it the softer side of Ombre.

Why will this be so popular this season? Summer is over and obviously our hair is getting less sun so since we all want people to think our hair is just naturally this stunning and beautiful (yeah right) we want to steer towards a little bit of a darker sun-kissed look.

I was lucky enough to receive personal training from Kim Vo last night during an exclusive Webinar hosted by Behindthechair.com The class taught us how to achieve this beautiful effect in only 30 minutes application time, 10-15 minutes of processing and the rest is up to the customer (trim? style?).

Let's book you an appointment today and see how beautiful this would look in your hair. It can be done with lowlights too and also Red tones so we can really personalize it to your liking.