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Meet ELEVEN Australia Collective member Katie Guise
Tell us about yourself?
Hi, I’m Katie Guise! I’m 31 years old and have been in the hair industry for over 15 years. My journey began in West London, where I started as an apprentice, learning the foundations of hairdressing. From there, I gained experience working in a variety of salons, as well as in fashion and session work, which allowed me to explore different aspects of the industry and refine my skills. 2.5 years ago, I took a major step in my career and opened my first salon, a dream I had worked towards for years. Being able to create a space where both my clients and team feel inspired and confident has been incredibly rewarding. I absolutely love working alongside ELEVEN and the Collective team, as it fuels my creativity and allows me to collaborate with other passionate artists. Surrounding myself with talented individuals who share the same drive and love for the industry constantly pushes me to grow, learn, and evolve as a stylist.
What did the collective get up to this month?
This month has been massive for the ELEVEN Australia Collective team! Not only did we have an amazing cutting education session with the incredible Ben Nott, but we also had the honour of assisting Joey Scandizzo and Andrew O’Toole on the Sydney to Shoreditch Tour. The energy, creativity, and talent in the room were just unreal, and being part of something so inspiring has only fueled my passion even more.
Why did you want to become a hairdresser?
I’ve always wanted to do hair. Even from the age of eight, I was obsessed! I used to cut my grandad’s hair for £1 (don’t worry, I’ve had a price increase since then). I even still have the last pound he ever gave me from 22 years ago—it’s something I’ll always treasure. Hair has always been and always will be my passion; there’s nothing else I could imagine doing.
What would you say your speciality is and why?
Although I specialize in colour, my absolute favourite thing is taking a client on a complete hair journey, from start to finish. There’s something so rewarding about working with someone over time to completely transform their hair, whether it’s a major colour change, restoring hair health, or helping them rediscover their confidence. That transformation process is what keeps me inspired every single day.
If you could be a famous hairdresser, who would it be and why?
If I could be a famous hairdresser, hands down, it would be Sally Brooks. What a boss—an incredible talent and a true icon in the industry! Her work is next-level, and her passion for education and creativity is something I really admire.
If you could invent something for the hairdressing industry, what would it be?
If I could invent one thing for the hair industry, it would definitely be trolley wheels that never get hair caught in them. Seriously, someone needs to make this happen! Every hairstylist knows the struggle, and I feel like this would be a game-changer in the salon.
Why book the new ELEVEN Australia Trend Cutting Class?
We talked to ELEVEN Australia Educator Ben Nott to find out why…
In the Eleven Australia trend-cutting course, we guide you through the art of blending scissor and razoring techniques to effortlessly create on-trend, high-demand cuts that clients are asking for in salons today. This course focuses on two gender-neutral, macro trend haircuts: The first is a longer, shaggy, ’70s rock-inspired style. Following the popularity of the butterfly and wolf haircuts, this look marks the next evolution of longer-layered hair trends. The second is a chic, chin-length cut with curtain bangs, featuring soft internal texture and movement while maintaining a fuller shape that works beautifully both curly and straight.
I absolutely love teaching the trend-cutting course because new styles and trends are always coming out but nowhere else seems to teach stylists how to create and achieve them with confidence. Showing hairdressers of all abilities how to utilise cutting with a razor – which is something most of us have either forgotten or were never properly taught in the first place – is so rewarding. I’ve often had students proclaim they want to become the salon razor specialist at the end of this course! Showing the class that in cutting, much like colouring, the importance of strong sectioning patterns ensures the accurately and effectiveness of creating these cuts time after time, with confidence in the end result.
“I can’t state it enough, everyone should attend a cutting course! There is something for every stylist no matter how experienced you are. It was so inspiring learning and being reminded of different techniques and tools to create different looks that are salon friendly and commercial. I even did one of the cuts I learnt the next day on a regular client and was so impressed with the finished result.”
-Amber Bird, Peterborough
“I completed this cutting course with Ben and I found it super inspiring! I would normally shy away from using a razor when cutting hair in the salon but after the course I’ve already used elements of the haircuts – my clients are loving the Sabrina Carpenter fringe vibes and the razor makes it way easier to achieve! Ben was really knowledgeable and super encouraging, he also taught us ways to adapt the techniques to make them more transferrable!! I would recommend any hairdresser looking to try a new technique in cutting to do this course with Ben!!”
-Daisy Baxter, Cornwall
“I recently completed the Edu Cutting Trends course, and honestly, I couldn’t be happier with the experience. The course really helped me understand how to create different looks and styles using both a razor and scissors, which is a great combo to use for today’s trends. I love that the looks we learnt are client friendly and I can actually take these techniques straight back to my salon and apply them day-to-day, which makes it so much more valuable.
– Corey-Marie Smith, Cardiff
Ben, the trainer, is fantastic. He has zero ego, which made the whole learning process so relaxed and enjoyable. His teaching style is super clear and relatable—no question feels silly, and he always takes the time to answer them thoroughly. I’ve had razor cutting training before, but I’ve never felt as confident as I do now. After Ben’s course, I left feeling ready to implement everything I’d learned immediately, and I was genuinely proud of the work I created during the session. It’s given me a real boost in my confidence and skill level! Highly recommend it.”
-Jenny Hainsworth, Harrogate
“I would highly recommend the cutting course and Ben as a teacher. His approach is really warm, friendly yet professional. The structure is perfect for a new or stylist in training as it’s broken down into really easy bite size sections! He is so hands on and really helped explain things when I got a bit stuck (due to lack of experience and confidence!)
Katie Guise, Essex
I feel like I came away with a much greater understanding for cutting generally as well as for the specific cuts we were taught. The different use of tools, including razors, scissors and thinning scissors to create various effects and textures was so valuable.”
-Lucy Johnson, Plymouth
“It’s been a while since I’ve done a cutting course, and this did not disappoint. Ben was great at delivering all the info and I came away with some great tips for different sectioning methods, as well as reminding me that I have razor in my kit bag that should be used more! felt like I’ve come away knowing I can use these cutting techniques on clients.”
-Stacy James, Kettering
“This was my first cutting course I’ve attended in years. Cutting has never really been ‘my thing’ but after leaving I feel it has opened a whole new door for me. Not only are the cuts super versatile for everyday life in the salon they also let you get super creative. After leaving I feel super inspired to offer a whole new service to my clients. Ben was literally the best educator for this! The knowledge he has and the patience is incredible and I will definitely be booking on more.”
-Zoey Weston, Ilkeston
“Ben is an incredible teacher. He made all of the steps really easy to follow and explained everything really, really well so we could create some amazing haircuts. We did two haircuts of really modern, on trend styles and they’re all techniques that you can use in the salon, which is absolutely amazing!”
-Tom Rowley, Alvechurch
“Thank you so much for yesterday! absolutely loved the trend-cutting class! as a colour specialist a cutting course is normally something I avoid as it’s slightly out of my comfort zone! But you really broke down & simplified the new techniques and sectioning patterns which made the workshop so fun + relaxed! Definitely has encouraged me to push myself with my cutting & even think about booking another cutting course!”
-Emmie Rae, Surrey
“I was with the Eleven Australia Collective team and we had a step-by-step tutorial on cutting. This was based on the haircuts by Melvyn Royce Lane – who is incredible – and Ben Nott who helped us and talked us through all of the steps in person. We did a shag cut and then a commercial bob cut and I learned some amazing new techniques that I had never even tried before. I’m now up to scratch with all of these techniques and I can’t wait to bring them back to the salon!”
-Lizzie Lam, Beccles
Tell us about yourself in a few words?
Hi my name is Daisy Baxter, I have been hairdressing for 10 years!! I started my hair journey as an apprentice at Marzipan Hair salon in Cornwall and have been there ever since – they can’t get rid of me!
I’m so Grateful for being part of the collective and excited to see a different side of the industry. I’m looking forward to being pushed in a safe community and learn from other like-minded hairdressers.
Tell us what the collective got up to this month?
This month the ELEVEN Australia Collective Team were treated to a hair cutting workshop with the wonderful Ben Nott. With colour clearly being my favourite thing ever, cutting courses can sometimes feel a little out of my comfort zone but Ben was super knowledgeable and encouraging – providing the perfect environment to get stuck in and try new techniques.
We learnt two great haircuts, the first being a gender-fluid, shaggy, mullet style created mostly using just a razor. I would never normally pick up a razor but less than 24 hours later I was using one back in the salon! Ben perfectly explained step by step how to achieve a super cool 80s-style vibe, whilst inspiring each of us to put our own twist on the cut meaning all of our end results looked totally different! Despite all following the same steps, clever stuff.
The second haircut, a textured bob, was my favourite. Bringing an undone feel to a classic cut by using a razor to craft the most effortless-looking face-framing fringe. Very Sabrina Carpenter, which all of my clients are loving at the minute. The razored fringe moment enabled us to attain the perfect length and texture – in half the steps it would normally take me with scissors! Again, once we’d all finished our looks, lining up the doll’s heads – no two cuts looked the same! Ben talked about different ways of styling the hair to give a different result and I’ll definitely be stealing his tips and tricks for day-to-day salon life!!
did you want to become a hairdresser?
Honestly, I loved playing with hair! I feel super lucky that hairdressing doesn’t feel like work to me, I absolutely love having the opportunity to create looks that give people confidence and make them feel good about themselves. Over the years I’ve had the privilege of working with the most amazing clients, each on their own little journeys and being a little part of it is so cool.
What would you say is your speciality and why?
My speciality is definitely all things colour. There’s nothing I enjoy more than a seamless, natural-looking hair colour, I think it’s timeless. Whether that’s a beautifully blended blonde or a soft multi-tonal brunette and everything in between. Bespoke colouring that is easy to maintain at home and doesn’t necessarily require a 6-week colour top-up has become my forte! I have a strong passion for creating the perfect colour formulas to compliment skin tone and the overall vibe of what my client might ask me for! I also love colour correcting, sinking my teeth into a challenge and helping people get to their dream hair!!
If you could be a famous hairdresser, who would you be and why?
If I could be a famous hairdresser, I’d choose Tracey Cunningham. She’s a true icon in the industry, especially when it comes to colour. I admire how she’s been able to shape trends while keeping her clients’ hair looking so natural and effortlessly beautiful. Plus, her ability to transform the hair of A-list celebrities shows not just skill but a deep understanding of what works for each person’s unique look. I’d love to be known for creating such gorgeous, personalised colour that makes people feel confident and glowing!
If you could invent something for the hairdressing industry, what would it be?
If I could invent something for the hairdressing industry, it would be a gown that adapts to the seasons—cooling you down in the summer and keeping you warm in the winter, offering comfort no matter the temperature.
Thanks Daisy 🙂
The ELEVEN Australia Collective is back!
We are seeking 11 enthusiastic ELEVEN Australia fans to embark on an exciting 1-year journey.
For our 2025 team, we are looking for stylists who are passionate about social media and eager to challenge themselves with new experiences. If you are looking for a stepping stone to launch your career, the 2025 ELEVEN Australia Collective is for you.
Joining the ELEVEN Australia Collective will help you enhance your hairdressing skills, provide you with exclusive opportunities, and allow you to build a network of lifelong friends.
Here are a few of the opportunities for 2025
The team will be mentored by Jo Robertson, ELEVEN Australia’s UK Education Director. Jo has mentored and helped to launch many stylists careers previously, including Patrick Wilson Celebrity Stylist, Anton Alexander New York based Session Stylist and Ashley Cockrell celebrity stylist. In Jo’s previous teams she has worked with Aliona Fedotova, Harriet Stokes and Grace Dalglish, she has also worked with and supported Zoe Irwin, Adam Reed, Charlotte Mensah and Kenna for many years. You will be in safe hands!
- Work with ELEVEN Australia’s Co-Creative Directors Joey Scandizzo and Andrew O’Toole at the ‘From Sydney To Shoreditch’ and ‘Melbourne to Manchester’ events
- ELEVEN Australia Colour Mentor Day with ELEVEN Australia Brand Artist Paul Dennison
- Collective mentoring day with ELEVEN Australia’s Global Artistic Director Melvin Royce Lane
- ELEVEN Australia Trend Cutting with Ben Nott
- The chance for one of the Collective members to win a place at Copenhagen Fashion Week 2025
- Session Styling mentoring day with Nina Band
- Learn the Aussi Blonde Colour placement with Katie Groves – ELEVEN Australia European Educator
- Styling day with Zoe Rees
Does this sound like the perfect opportunity for you? If so, your next step is to complete the application form by scanning the QR code below
What happens next?
1. After you fill in the application form, we will send you some instructions for step 1. Competition closes 7th October
2. Finalists will be announced on Monday 14th October on @elevenaustraliapro_uk
3. Finalist selection day on Monday 11th November at Heist Studios – Warwick where the new ELEVEN Australia Collective will be announced
Good luck!
Following the successful Australian tour, we are thrilled to announce the launch of ELEVEN Australia Studio Sessions. These intimate, look-and-learn classes are focused on COLOUR knowledge, trends, and techniques. In these pared-back sessions, you’ll gain insights into formulation and reinvigorate your creative skills. With a limit of 25 attendees per session, you’ll have the opportunity to engage closely and ask questions.
Studio Sessions are new educational classes centred on COLOUR. Led by a team of ELEVEN Australia Educators and ambassadors, including Global Artistic Director Melvin Royce Lane, Brand Artist Paul Dennison, and European Educator Katie Groves, these sessions are ideal for those new to ELEVEN Australia COLOUR or those wishing to deepen their understanding of the brand. Attendees will learn how to create the signature Aussie Blonde and explore creative formulas to bring back to your salons.
£100 + VAT per person – maximum 2 tickets per salon
3 dates are now available to book – join us in Manchester, Warwick or Cleveland
We look forward to seeing you this Autumn
Katie Groves
Katie is an accomplished Colourist based in the heart of Bath in her beautiful studio and has been part of the ELEVEN Australia COLOUR family since its launch. As well as being an ELEVEN Australia Educator for the UK, Katie has been instrumental in leading the Master Certification and has also been showcasing her creative skills as part of the ELEVEN Australia European education team. Her extensive experience of over 15 years in both salon work and educational roles allows her to empower other stylists, fostering their growth and confidence. Katie’s unique ability to blend practical salon wisdom with in-depth brand insights enables her to provide unparalleled guidance and advice to stylists and salons at all levels.
Paul Dennison
With 27 industry years of experience, you could say Paul has learnt a thing or two about hair colour. Paul believes by sharing knowledge the hairdressing industry will grow and push forward, a belief he shared during four years as Project Leader for the British Fellowship Of Hairdressing Colour Project working with the industry’s brightest young and emerging talent. Paul has travelled extensively educating and has drawn from these experiences working in different cultures and environments to shape his colour knowledge. Paul is no stranger to the stage and has presented to huge audiences as well as providing bespoke, intimate sessions, combine that with decades of photoshoots, including working with ELEVEN Australia Co-Creative Director and award-winning photographer Andrew O’Toole.
Melvin Royce Lane
Melvin Royce Lane, with his extensive 20-years experience in the hair industry, stands at the forefront of ELEVEN Australia as Global Artistic Director. His profound connection to the fashion world infuses a contemporary and innovative approach to educational strategies within the brand. Melvin’s expertise is not confined to the theoretical aspects; his hands-on experience directing hair for high-profile fashion events, such as Australia’s Next Top Model and various esteemed fashion weeks, allows him to translate cultural trends into educational content seamlessly. His role is multifaceted, encompassing the development of ELEVEN Australia’s COLOUR line and the curation of cutting-edge cutting and styling education programs. Melvin’s influence is pivotal in shaping the brand’s educational direction, ensuring that ELEVEN Australia continues leading hair fashion trends.
Monday 9th September – FourFive Studio – Manchester 10am – 3pm ELEVEN Australia Brand Artists – Paul Dennison and Katie Groves
54 Oldfield Road
Manchester
M5 4LZ
Monday 30th September – Warwick (Midlands) 10am – 3pm ELEVEN Australia Brand Artists – Melvin Royce Lane and Paul Dennison
The Heist Studios~
5-7 High Street
Warwick
CV34 4AP
Tuesday 1st October – Cleveland 2pm – 6pm – ELEVEN Australia Brand Artists – Melvin Royce Lane and Paul Dennison
Thor Rooney
8a South Side
Hutton Rudby
YARM
Cleveland
TS15 0DD
2024 Pantone Colour of The Year – Peach Fuzz
Now in its 25th year, Pantone Color of the Year introduces a new tone each year that is a trend forecast. Pantone Executive Director said “It is a Cosy Peach hue softly nestled between pink and orange, Peach Fuzz brings belonging, inspires recalibration, and an opportunity for nurturing,”
In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a colour radiant with warmth and modern elegance. A shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace, and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless.
– Leatrice Eiseman – Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute™
The trend for warmer tones is set to continue, our clients are getting braver and looking to experiment. We talked to our Wonderful Brands Education team and asked them for advice on how you could get inspiration from the Peach Fuzz Pantone Of The Year.
Katie Groves – ELEVEN Australia European Educator
The Pantone Colour of the Year is a fantastic tool to encourage creativity. It’s a great idea to take a look outside of our hair industry sometimes, to gather inspiration and to be aware of what will be all around us in 2024. Stylists can adapt this shade to suit their client’s needs quite easily. I encourage swatching to really understand how to tweak the shade. Adding a clear to your ELEVEN Australia Liquid Demi Permanent mix can help soften the shade’s intensity for those more subtle clients. Playing around with the depth can also have a huge impact.
Hayley Penny – Yellow Professional Educator
It’s all about placement. Adding dimensional lights or colour blocks. Or will you go for the impact of full head colour?
Peach fuzz works well as a temporary colour or going for a longer-lasting look. Discussing client commitment is key to deciding how you’ll add in this trend. Along with managing maintenance expectations. I think peach fuzz can complimentary to many skin tones. Place between orange and pink, try tipping to the more yellow, pink or orange side to suit your client’s complexion.
I’ll be adding copper tones to my level 10s and high lifts or offer diluted colour masks for those trying it out. Aftercare is essential. As well as protection from heat I’d advise a colour mask to keep the tones looking fresh. Yellow Professional Colour Refresh Mask in Shade .4 works beautifully for a peach shade when diluted with the colour care mask.
Ben Nott – ELEVEN Australia Brand Educator
I would pre-formulate a range of bespoke peach formulas on different bases and promote these unique-to-your-salon formulas to your clients. Most colourists already include toning within their blonding services, so there’s no need to add on any extra time to your packages either.
As with any pastel shade, the longevity is short. You could combat this by formulating slightly darker to start with and extend the life of the peach tone. Minimal heat styling, UV protection and colour-prolonging products are all paramount too in helping your client’s new peach tone last as long as possible. The maintenance necessary should be outlined at the earliest consultation too.
This is a great opportunity to boost retail sales too. Colour, heat and UV-protecting products will all extend the life of a new peach tone. Adding a peach-toned direct dye to a salon retail conditioner is a great revenue booster for the salon and a time saver for clients too.
Rachael Lomax – The Copper Queen – Yellow Professional Guest Artist
Peach Fuzz gives me inspiration and allows me to dive deep into the colours within the shade to create my own blend of copper tones and think outside the box.
Maintenance is key when working with coppers however correct product and oxydent choice will help when it comes to maintenance as working with coppers are complex you need to build the fundamentals. Home care maintenance is always a part of my client journey so products such as customised coloured shampoos and masks such as Yellow Professional Colour Care Masks are a game-changer, they will give longevity to your shades and give your clients the confidence to try something new and be able to make it last.
Who can wear this tone?
Katie Groves said “This beautiful shade is a winner for all complexions, due to its soft flattering hue. Your client may need to pop by for a top up to keep it looking fresh, which a fantastic chance to add a little treatment to their service. Remember, healthy hair will maintain their colour for longer!”
Rachael Lomax added
It’s key to assess your client’s skin tone and eye colour. However, this shade would work on most guests but would really suit pale pink skin tones on a lighter softer level or even richer tones, for more warmer skin tones you will have to adapt the shade by adding more violet or richer orange. This is why this tone is so versatile and could be adapted to match any skin tones.
Zoe Rees from Bliss Hair Therapy shares her 4 ways to add Peach in to your services
Bespoke toners for balayage clients
- Global gloss refresh for blondes who are looking for a fresh new on-trend look for 2024
- Adding Peach Fuzz colour in foils for a natural grow-out and a more muted colour
- Creating flashes of colour underneath the hair in bold sections
ELEVEN Australia Master Certification
2024 is going to be an exciting year for ELEVEN Australia COLOUR! We are introducing a new Master Certification, the certification will allow colourists to gain a deeper understanding of ELEVEN Australia COLOUR as well as up-skilling their colour knowledge with an ELEVEN Australia twist.
Wonderful Brands Education Director Jo Robertson and ELEVEN Australia Educator Katie Groves travelled to Copenhagen for 4 days in November to gain their Bronze and Silver Master Certification and to learn the program to bring back to the UK ready to teach in 2024. The program is split into Bronze, Silver and Gold and allows you as a stylist to think differently about colour, how to formulate as well as placements.
Our Educators were Lindsay Perez-Soloman, Global Education Director of ELEVEN Australia and Melvin Royce Lane, Head of Education ELEVEN Australia.
Jo Robertson said “We were very excited to for the training, it’s always good to spend time in the Copenhagen academy with the European team but this time it felt very special to be the first people to gain the Master Certification. It was 4 days of intense learning which I loved and can’t wait to share this with everyone in the UK. My favourite part was Hair Science Day, I love understanding colour and why it behaves the way it does.”
The Master Colourists Program is split into 3 sections, named after famous places in Australia.
Bondi Bronze – Bondi is an upbeat city with a vibrant culture and fast-paced
Bryon Silver – Bryon is where our last campaign Far North was shot, it has stunning beaches, lush rain forests with a chilled vibe
Uluru Gold – The famous red rock (Ayres Rock) and where our Alice Springs campaign was shot. It’s a sacred spiritual site and parts of it can be accessed if you are invited by the indigenous people
We asked Jo to share her trip to the ELEVEN Australia Acamdey with us
Day 1
After recapping our fundamentals and discussing lightening hair in depth we moved on to fun hands-on part where we spent time formulating and discussing tonal characters of the range to allow us to get perfect results, it was great to be able to listen and problem-solve with other colourists.
We squeezed another day session into day 1 and also worked on ELEVEN Australia Signature Colour, this taught us to think like a colourist and not a hairdresser! We covered the signature looks with Permanent, Liquid Demi-Permanent and Lighteners. Don’t worry we won’t be squeezing an extra day in when we teach, we will get to spend a day on each module.
Day 2
I personally took away so much from the class, I’ve always been a big believer that consultation is key but without spoiling the class details, this day made me rethink and access the client’s needs and colour suitability in a different way. I had some big light bulb moments!
For the hands-on part of the session, we took our learning from the morning and looked in detail of placement of colour.
Day 3
Love or hate them, colour corrections are a huge part of our jobs, especially as clients want to experiment with their hair and even throw in a box dye now and then just to test our knowledge and patience!
Katie and I were really looking forward to this class, it is something we get asked for a lot in the UK. The class was broken down into salon-friendly, realistic time options to correct a colour. Looking at the possibilities, too dark, too warm etc. We also looked at removal of colour and adding colour.
We then put all of our learning into practice by creating one seamless colour on a head that was a combination of 4 colours. We both loved this class, it really gets your brain working and we loved debating tones.
Day 4
Hair Science – After an early night we felt ready to tackle the hair science. Understanding the “Why” is so important to be able to tackle the “How”. We discussed hair, its composition and how new technology enhances our colour services before moving on to natural colour pigments and artificial colour.
All of our learning was combined with our final colour model and having gained the knowledge and tools over the Master Certification it allowed us to create the most stunning seamless blonde, which probably would have been a bit of a nightmare if we had not had the certification under our belts.
And we made it!
After 4 days of intense learning, we completed our Bondi Bronze and Byron Silver Master Certification. We will be back in June for part 2, Uluru Gold which combines all of our learning and focuses on creativity and an ELEVEN Australia shoot.
We can’t wait to share this with you and take you to Bondi, Bryon and Urulu with us!
ELEVEN Australia Collective Awards
This year saw the launch of the ELEVEN Australia UK COLLECTIVE AWARDS with awards up for grabs in over 5 categories. Many of our amazing ELEVEN Australia salons entered, and finalists were chosen and invited to the awards ceremony at Salon International. We asked our winners a few questions to discover what it takes to put an award-winning entry together.
ELEVEN AUSTRALIA UK SALON OF THE YEAR
JUDGED BY Wonderful Brands Joint Managing Director Andy Camping , our finalists were;
- Atelier Hair Couture
- Salon Ginger
- Elysian
- Michael John Hair Artworks
- Josh Lee Hair
- Roberts and Gray
- Heir Salon
We learnt putting together the entry for The Eleven Salon Of The Year Award was an enlightening experience. It allowed us to reflect deeply on our journey and business practices. Here are some key lessons we learned:
The act of writing the entry was a positive exercise for the entire team, it allowed us to reflect on the positive aspects of the business and understand the potential for further success, this in itself added a boost in team morale and provided motivation and focus. We were given the opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of our team and recognise their efforts and achievements.
The process prompted us to take a step back and critically assess HEIR Salon strengths and weaknesses. In doing so we are able to identify what makes the salon unique, but also where we can make improvements. Identifying weaknesses, as well as strengths is the first step towards addressing them and improving business operations, systems and services.
The end to end experience has given us the opportunity to recognise and reward our team as well as continually improve our services and build a reputation for being a top quality high street salon.
My biggest tip for anyone thinking of entering awards is to show the impact of your incredible business. Even the smallest of salon businesses can make the biggest of impacts. Numbers, analytics and reports can paint a picture, but it’s the impact of your business which tells a story. The real ways in which your business has helped people and made a lasting impression. For us it’s about the impact we make in the lives of our customers and our team. Case studies and testimonials can speak louder than a graph showing business growth. Your business has made a difference, in some way, this is what makes you unique and worthy of an award win! So find a creative way to share this!
When we found out that HEIR Salon had won The Eleven Collective Salon Of The Year Award, We were overwhelmed with gratitude. It was a moment of validation for all the hard work and dedication our team put into HEIR salon. Winning this award has not only boosted their confidence but also motivated us to aim even higher in our business endeavours.
Colourist Of The Year
JUDGED BY Head of Education Melvin Royce Lane & Education Director Lindsay Perez-Solomon, our finalists were;
- Douglas Reid – R&R
- Pamela Cooney – Clay Hair Studio
- Stacy James – Stacey James Presents Style
- Jamie Boot – Salon B
What I learnt about myself entering the award was that It helped me learn that even tho I own a business now there is always room to make time to be creative! It helps keep ideas fresh and creates excitement in the salon you can’t beat!
My biggest tip is be true to yourself and put forward your own sense of style and what you see as forward-thinking.
Winning the award just makes you feel amazing! By being recognised just makes you feel that you are getting it right and makes you want to do it again!
Member Of The Year
JUDGED BY Wonderful Brands Education Director Jo Robertson, our finalists were;
- Toni Roberts – Roberts and Gray
- Zoë Rees – Biss Hair Therapy
- Zoey Louise – Salon B
- Jamie-Leigh Oliver – Micheal John Hair Artworks
What I learnt about myself when I won the award was that if I really put my mind to it and have more faith in myself I can do anything. I also learnt that I am good at my job and I should have much more confidence than I do have with showcasing my work and how I get to where I need to get.
I have never entered an award so the tips I would give is just do it, you’ve got nothing to loose, just make sure you put everything you have into it and the most important thing is you did your best. Entering is the most confident thing you could do.
How I felt when I won both my awards? I sobbed like a baby! I just cried (with happiness of course) I have never won anything before and I lack so much confidence within my job, I’m so used to always being knocked so I didn’t have high hopes but knowing that I won two awards I was and still am over the moon and I sing about them with pride! But I’m always trying to improve myself to always be better as a just in case. I couldn’t be more thankful to the eleven team for boosting my confidence so much!
TREND IMAGE AWARD
JUDGED BY Co-Creative Director Andrew O’Toole & Co-Creative Director Joey Scandizzo our finalists were;
- Douglas Reid – R&R
- Jamie-Leigh Oliver – Michael John Hair Artworks
- Hollie Herring – Hair at No.2
- Eloise Taylor – YOKE The Salon
SOCIAL MEDIA AWARD
JUDGED BY Head Of Education Melvin Royce Lane and Jo Robertson Wonderful Brands Education Director, our finalists were;
- Katie Guise – Ochre Hair Studio
- Zoë Rees – Bliss Hair Therapy
- Jamie Sean Boot -Salon B
- Zoey Louise – Salon B
- Joshua Lee Partridge – Josh Lee Hair
What I learned about myself by entering the awards is that I’m so busy in the salon that I rarely get the time to reflect. Compiling the entry made me realise how much we’ve developed in business since launching five years ago and actually made me feel quite proud of how far we’ve come!
If you have never entered an award before and if you feel you deserve to be recognised for a certain achievement/award- just go for it! Sitting down to draft the entry can feel a little daunting, especially as hairdressers are not used to being behind a laptop so if necessary seek support. A friend, family member or professional who has copywriting experience will be able to help you effectively convey why you deserve to win.
Another handy tip is to carefully consider the criteria for the specific award you are applying for and write down your key notes in bullet point format. This will help to ensure that the entry remains concise and relevant, which is critical in order for the judges to measure if you are the deserved winner.
When we heard our name being called as a winner we were over the moon. At Josh Lee Hair we are huge advocates of ELEVAN and have been using the products for several years now. To be recognised is an honour.
with Melvin Royce Lane
If you missed our last Cocktail hour of the year don’t worry we have you covered!
Learn about the ELEVEN Australia range and Melvin’s favourite cocktails (we do mean products, Melvin is a champagne kind of guy). Cocktail hours are our favourite sessions and always learn a few extra styling tips each time, if you don’t have an hour spare we have put together our 11 must-know tips below.
Our 11 must-know tips of the session
- Smooth Me Now – Traditional Thermal Sprays only protect and ELEVEN Australia wanted to create something that has a dual purpose. It has Hydrolysed Quinoa to hydrate the hair as well as Agran Oil to add a beautiful shine. You will get protection and a frizz-free finish. It’s perfect for those damp days ahead.
- Keep My Blonde Toning Spray – Protects up to 220° Remember to shake before use. It can be used on wet or dry hair. On dry it has more toning ability.
- Frizz-free and defined curls – Curls need moisture to make them happy. Cocktail Keep my Curl Cream and Smooth and Shine Serum together and for more hold cocktail Medium Hold Styling Cream.
- Glass Hair – Blowdry with Smooth Me Know Thermal Spray and Frizz Control Shaping Cream. Once dry spray on a light mist of Smooth Me Now Spray and Iron for a glass finish
- Bouncy Blow – The LA blowdry
Cocktail Medium styling cream and Smooth Me Now Cream, you will feel the grip in your hand, make sure you thoroughly work the product through the hair by twisting in and not just coating the top of the head. You want the hair to slip through the brush but have that resistance. Use Dry Finish Wax Spray to seal. - Frizzy Hair – This is perfect for someone who has wavy/frizzy hair and wants to achieve a smooth finish. Start with Miracle treatment like always and mix together Frizz Control Shaping Cream (this has lanolin which adds moisture to the hair) and Smooth & Shine.
- Waves enhancement – Controlling and enhancing waves are different, you need to provide the hair with lots of moisture. Cocktail Keep My Curl, has Avocado Oil which will soften and add suppleness and cocktailed with Frizz Control Shaping Cream to add moisture too. Finish with Make Me Shine Spray which acts as an anti-humectant.
- Editorial Hair – Wet Look Hair
Start with damp hair (if the hair is dry just spray with water) Apply slick hold pomade, section my section. More is more with this look. Apply I want Body Foam over the top to seal and form a cocoon and finally seal with Flexible Hold Hairspray Editorial Hair – Dry Finish
Start with dry hair and cocktail Slick Hold Pomade and Smooth and Shine Serum. This will give separation and a dry wet look. This is great for shorter hair as well as an editorial look. Think 80’s vibe. - Texture, Definition and Shine – How to finish undone waves
Decant I Want Body Volume Powder into the palm of your hand (do not spray) and cocktail with Smooth and Shine Serum! This creates a gritty texture. Or for thicker hair try Dry Shampoo Volume Paste and Smooth and Shine. - Short hair lived-in texture
To get a second-day look cocktail Matt Texture Spray ( this is matt and no shine and always contains beeswax which will give you more hold) with medium hold styling cream (medium hold and natural shine). You will get a beautiful sheen and separation on the hair. - Short Hair Styling –
Traditional clays are hard and not easy to distribute through the hair, the ELEVEN Australia Extra Hold Clay is more creamy and easier to use. It has Lanoin and Beeswax. If you want more of a sheen cocktail with Smoot and finish, it makes it feel really silky and gives more separation
From Melbourne To Manchester
September saw ELEVEN Australia’s second edu-tainment event of the year in Manchester, where we brought a little of Melbourne sunshine to the North of England (it actually rained but the sun shone inside 😉)
The event was held at the quirky Five Four Studios in Manchester, stylists were greeted with breakfast pastries before entering the bright white cove studio space, where the stylists received their red ELEVEN Australia goodie bags with the brand new Miracle Hair Treatment Shampoo and Conditioner as part of their £200 swag.
The event kicked off by Jo Robertson ELEVEN Australia UK Education Director, with an introduction to the brand and a little teaser of the next event in London with co-creative directors Joey Scandizzo and Andrew O’Toole. Melvin Royce Lane ELEVEN Australia’s Head Of Education and Brand Artists Paul Dennison were first to the stage. Melvin re-created the ELEVEN Australia signature seamless blonde using powder lighteners and ultra high-lift blonde cream colour, whilst Paul talked about real-life in-salon colour and how to change up your client’s colours quickly and keep them loyal to you and your salon.
Everyone was then treated to the Instagramable grazing platter lunch before seeing Jo Dyer ELEVEN Australia Guest Artist from YOKE The Salon in Plymouth dramatic haircut that had everyone in the audience holding their breath! Jo used the ELEVEN Australia Feather razor and took her model’s waist-length hair and transformed it into a cute Wolfe cut. Joining Jo was ELEVEN Australia Brand Ambassador Conor Doyle. Conor brought his unique and entertaining education to re-energise the room and talked about tackling curly hair with colour.
Next up is Sydney To Shoreditch on Tuesday 27th February with another superstar lineup
