The beauty industry turns out thousands of new hairstylists a year from beauty schools all around the world. And I'm sure you can see the diamonds in the ruff. Those that handle themselves with enough poise to manage building a clientele, and that can see hair, see where they are going, and most of all, have the courage to continue. Graduating from beauty school is just the beginning. However, I just attended the San Francisco Institute of Esthetics's and Cosmetology graduation. And I was inspired by the work these graduates executed on non-professional models. Color placement and balance were good, the hairstyles were right for the models, and some were adventurous. These graduates had to put on a runway show, and the hair had to hold up. The place was packed with people, and employers of top salons were there to spot new talent for their salons.
I was glad I attended. I felt sort of protective of the new beauty professionals, and touched by their genuine attempt to make the audience proud of their work. Beauty school is not easy, and being new in the industry is painful. It's a long haul of making lots of mistakes, learning from them, making little money, and wondering how you can possibly stay with it. It's hard work, but one of the most fulfilling industries around. Hairstylists are one of the most satisfied in their work. But you have to keep challenging yourself to grow, and learn new things.
Thank you graduates for helping me remember where it all started for me, for sharing your creative journey with me with a freshness I hope you never lose. May you find your own expression through hair, and learn to trust your instincts.