“Hair is a Relationship”
Did you know the average woman will visit her favorite hair salon and stylist between 8 to 9 times a year, averaging 25 hours in the stylist seat, spending as much as $1,800 on hair services annually?
It can be assumed that the person who styles your hair is one of the most influential people you will invest into your appearance, pocketbook, and time, making the “right” stylist a rather important decision.
In this edition of the PureHair + Artistry Hair & Beauty Tips, we interviewed senior stylist, Sarah Sarezky, to get a better understanding of why a good stylist is important, questions to ask your stylist and why she believes, "hair is a relationship."
Q: Sarah, how many clients do you have, and why do you think they chose you?
A: This question is a little embarrassing because I don't often think about why a client chooses me. The better question to ask is why they continue to come back (to me). I have 200+ clients, and I believe that hair is a relationship. When a client sits in my chair, they are looking for more than just hair expertise. I touch their hair; their scalp. I ask them about their lifestyle and what they like to do. I feel their energy, totally connecting with them as individuals. This is the magic of this relationship. Hair is what brings us together. The relationship is what keeps us together.
Q: What is your core belief about hair and beauty?
A: Personal health and hair go hand-in-hand. A healthy and active lifestyle is critical to the beauty that starts on the inside and works its way out. Yes, my expertise helps my clients achieve a more beautiful version of themselves’, but true beauty starts on the inside. A healthy lifestyle, physical health, and taking time for oneself are critical to finding balance and peace. All the beauty products in the world cannot fix a life out of balance.
Q: What have you learned over the years as a stylist?
A: Most people don't really know what they want. So when they come to see me, they are looking to the stylist to provide insight into what's new, what they could do differently, or simple tips on how to style their hair or keep it looking healthy. Whatever the case, it is the stylist's job to listen, pay attention and be present. I feel a real obligation to give every client my full attention.
Q: What should a client look for in a stylist?
A: Many clients are looking for a connection. Does the stylist listen to them? Do they bring expertise to the chair? Does the stylist remember which services were performed the last time they were in? You have to remember things about people if you want to form a relationship. Most stylists are introverts, and they are often observing feelings, even if they don't speak them openly. You want a stylist who is going to put effort into continually evolving your look.
Here is a simple set of criteria to look for when seeking out a new stylist:
What are their years of experience?
Do they have some type of expertise or do they have a certain kind of philosophy about how they do hair?
Ask your stylist what they are learning. You want a stylist that takes classes and is actively interested in continuing to learn. Classes are important. They give a stylist the nuggets of information that are added to their collective knowledge.
Finally, does your stylist ask you questions? Do they touch your hair? Do they repeat what they hear you say? Does what they repeat to you make sense, or are they in a hurry to get to the next client? For example, I learned the Suzuki Method. I use visual queues to repeat what is being communicated. I ask questions and summarize what I heard back from the client. I create a visual memory of that client that allows me to build on what I have learned.
Q: What's next in your personal journey?
A: I will continue to expand my knowledge of hair, but I also want to explore personal health. I think it all ties together, and I care about helping my clients improve their own version of personal health. Maybe someday, I will get the opportunity to coach other women in this area. Who knows? I am thankful for what I have learned along the way.
About Sarah
Sarah blends her leadership training with her natural artistic eye to create beautiful results that fit the desired look. She specializes in blonde/balayage, formulating color blending, hair extensions, and creative cuts for men and women.
Sarah completed her Master's Cosmetology license at the Paul Mitchell Academy and continues to educate herself with advanced classes in Kevin Murphy's program. This is an accomplishment that is recognized internationally within the cosmetology industry. With Sarah's degree in leadership, her goal is to mentor new students and become a Session Stylist.