Tell us about you in a few words

Hi, my name is Stacy James. I’ve been a hairstylist for 28 years, with the past 9 spent freelancing at my own salon, Sawmill Hair Studio, located in Geddington, Northamptonshire. My career has been a journey of continuous learning, growth, and passion. I am deeply committed to creating personalised, beautiful looks for my clients, helping them feel confident and empowered.

Along the way, I’ve had some career highlights, including being a college lecturer/assessor for hair and barbering, as well as travelling abroad for bridal hair work. Freelancing has given me the creative freedom I truly enjoy, allowing me to form more meaningful, one-on-one connections with my clients. It’s a rewarding, dynamic career that never gets old!

Tell us what the collective got up to this month?

In November the New Eleven Collective  members got to meet for the first time.  I felt a bit nervous—imposter syndrome was definitely in full swing . But from the moment I arrived, everyone was so welcoming and supportive. After a coffee and an amazing swag bag, we kicked off the day by learning all about the Eleven Australia brand, its goals, and the exciting opportunities ahead. It was incredibly inspiring to hear about the company’s vision, and we can’t wait to get started on this new chapter together.

One of the most powerful moments of the day was when we were asked to reflect on our personal and professional goals for 2025. We each wrote down our intentions for the year in our notebooks, taking time to celebrate achievements, review the past, and release anything holding us back. This exercise was so grounding, and we’re excited to carry those intentions with us as the year progresses.

The second half of the day was one of my favourite activities creating a vision board. Armed with magazines, scissors, and glue, we each cut out words and images that resonated with us and shared our boards with the group.  I will admit, I can’t remember exactly what I said when presenting mine (I probably rambled a bit!), but it was such a fun, reflective activity. My public speaking is definitely something I will look to improve on in the future, and I’m grateful for the support of The Collective as we continue to grow together.

Looking ahead, we’re incredibly excited for what’s to come. I’m especially looking forward to the Joey & Andrew Tour, as well as being part of the London team in February and assisting at HairCon in Manchester in June. This year is going to be full of learning, growth, and collaboration, and I can’t wait to work alongside such a talented group of people.

Quick Fire Questions:

How long have you been a hairdresser?

I’ve been a stylist for 28 years. Over the years, I’ve expanded my skill set to include, hair extensions, bridal hair, and styling for commercial photoshoots.

Why did you want to become a hairdresser?

Honestly, I never planned on becoming a hairstylist! When I was younger, I wanted to be a contract killer (definitely not the typical childhood ambition!). But after completing a two-week work experience placement in a local salon, I was completely hooked. I loved the vibrant atmosphere, the creativity, and the opportunity to connect with people. I was offered a Saturday job, which then led to an apprenticeship, setting me on my path to becoming a professional stylist.

What would you say is your specialty and why?

My specialty is “lived-in blondes.” I love creating natural, sun-kissed blonde looks that feel effortlessly chic. The challenge lies in balancing the right tones—warmth and coolness—to enhance each client’s unique features and skin tone. There’s something deeply satisfying about crafting a blonde that looks low-maintenance but is actually the result of precision and expertise.

If you could be a famous hairdresser, who would you be and why?

I would love to be Conor James Doyle. I admire his approach to hairdressing, especially his mastery of colour. His work is both artistic and precise, and he’s built a remarkable presence on social media, where he combines expertise with a real, down-to-earth personality. His sense of humour and authenticity make him not only a great stylist but someone I think is truly relatable in the industry.

If you could invent something for the hairdressing industry, what would it be?

I’d invent a Smart Mirror to help clients visualise different hairstyles in real-time.

Here’s how it would work: Clients can see how they would look with different cuts, colours, or styles without physically altering their hair. The mirror would use AR to project these styles onto the client’s reflection.

The system could analyse the client’s hair type, face shape, and preferences to recommend cuts and styles that would work best for them. It would also offer suggestions based on the latest trends and the client’s past choices.

The client and stylist could interact with the mirror to experiment with different looks, styles, and colours, enhancing the decision-making process. The mirror could also show before-and-after simulations to give clients a more confident choice.

Sarah Dalglish from the co-working hair salon REBEL REBEL spoke to us about Managing Clients’ Expectations as a Hairdresser and shared some of her top tips.

As hairdressers, it’s important to remember that most clients don’t understand what goes into creating their dream hair. Thanks to social media, they’ve often been led to believe anything is possible. It’s our job as experts to guide them through the process—but we should always do it with kindness. A little understanding goes a long way in helping clients feel heard and appreciated, even when we have honest conversations about what’s achievable and what isn’t.

We’ve all been there. A client comes in armed with an image or video from Instagram or TikTok, saying they want their hair to look “exactly like that.” While it’s great to have inspiration, these images often create unrealistic expectations.

Sure, sometimes it may be possible to create something similar, but it won’t always look exactly like that picture, especially when they get home.

I’m going to use a lived-in balayage blonde as an example, but the same rules apply to any colour or even haircut.

Social Media and Filters

Most of the pictures you’ll find of balayage are on long, wavy hair, styled perfectly to show off all that dimension. And, of course, they’re taken in fantastic lighting—think natural daylight or the brightest spot in the salon that makes those blonde tones pop (and of course, we all do this with our work as it’s when it looks its best). But that’s not the reality clients will see when they’re standing in their bathroom.

What happens when they go home, wash their hair, and don’t know how to recreate those waves? Add in a room without much natural light and a yellow-toned lightbulb, and suddenly that Instagram blonde doesn’t look quite the same. If we haven’t managed their expectations properly, they might think we haven’t done what they asked, or worse—we aren’t very good at our jobs.

Tips for Managing Clients’ Expectations

It’s not about shooting down their dreams—it’s about being real with them. Here’s how I do it. I’ll use the blonde balayage again as an example, though this can apply to pretty much any work.

1. Have an In-depth Consultation

Take the time to sit down face to face with them and really get to grips with what they’re after. Ask questions, dig into what they like, and talk about their lifestyle. It’s about making sure you’re on the same page before you start. This is the moment to discuss what’s achievable, what might take a few sessions, and what simply won’t work with their natural hair.

I was once told that 90% of what goes wrong is in the consultation, and I must admit, it’s something I agree with!

2. Ask for Three Inspiration Images

I always ask clients to bring in three images of the type of colour they like. You wouldn’t believe how many times those images end up being totally different from each other! But it’s helpful—it gives me a chance to figure out what they’re actually seeing and which elements they’re drawn to. Plus, it stops them from getting too attached to one specific photo that might be unrealistic for their hair type.

3. Find a Picture that’s Similar to Their Hair

If a client has naturally darker, straight hair but they’re showing me a photo of a lived-in blonde on someone with naturally light, wavy hair, it’s my job to explain how the outcome will look different. I’ll ask them to find photos where the hair type is more like theirs. It gives them a better sense of what they’re likely to end up with, which means fewer surprises when they look in the mirror later.

4. Reiterate Key Points from the Consultation

After we’ve had the consultation, I always go over what we talked about before getting started. For example, if a client’s moving from a full head of highlights to a more lived-in look, they’re going to feel darker than usual. I’ll make sure they know this and are happy with it before I get going. It’s all about making sure there are no surprises when they leave the studio.

5. Know When to Say “No”

Sometimes, even after the best consultation, you might feel that a client’s vision doesn’t align with your style or the kind of work you love to create. Or maybe they’re not listening to what you’re saying about what’s achievable for their hair. And that’s okay. As a hairdresser or colourist, you don’t have to take on every client. It’s perfectly fine to tell them that you don’t feel you’re the right person to create the look they’re after.

It’s better to part ways before any disappointment than to do a service you’re not confident will meet their expectations. This way, they can find someone who’s a better fit for their vision, and you can focus on the work you’re passionate about. It’s about maintaining your integrity as a professional and making sure that both you and the client are happy with the end result.

Sarah’s Conclusion

Managing expectations is all about communication. When clients have a clear idea of what to expect, everyone’s happier in the end—they’re confident in their new look, and you know you’ve done your best work. So, take the time to talk things through, find realistic examples, and help them see how their new style is going to work in real life, not just in a picture.

For more tips for freelance hairdressers follow REBEL REBEL on Instagram or view more of their Blog Posts for Hairdressers

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

CLICK TO REGISTER

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!

Earlier this year ELEVEN Australia took part in clinical trials with hero product, MIRACLE HAIR TREATMENT. The aim of the study was to evaluate and substantiate the efficacy of the product to improve the appearance and condition of hair.

THE STUDY

The study was conducted by an independent dermatology and clinical research lab over a six week period with a cohort of 25 women of varying ages and hair textures.

During the study data was collated from analysis of hair condition, heat damage, frizz & flyaways as well as hair smoothness, shine, breakage and split ends.

Studies were assessed on the appearance of hair via microscopic image capture and digital photographic analysis, as well subjects assessment of the products efficacy, tolerability and sensory aspects.

THE RESULTS

The results are in and as expected ELEVEN Australia’s MIRACLE HAIR TREATMENT is a hero product in more ways than one. In fact here are just some of the incredible results to come from the clinical trials.

  • 94% of users noticed an improvement of protection of hair against heat styling
  • 100% of users noticed an improvement in hair shine
  • 92% of users noticed an improvement in the control of frizz & flyaways
  • 100% of users noticed an improvement in hair smoothness & softness

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

Book here

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

 

 

HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED THE MAGIC OF YELLOW PROFESSIONAL TONE-ON-TONE CREATOR YET?

Tone-on-Tone Creator transforms permanent colour into demi-permanent hues, effortlessly refreshing tones while preserving hair health.

 

 

WHAT IT DOES:

Tone-on-Tone Creator is a smart additive that, when added to yellow permanent colour, acts by targeting the alkalinity of the colour cream reducing its PH-level and transforming it into a true tone-on tone colour. It also remineralises the hair leaving it strong and healthy.

How do you convert YELLOW Professional permanent colour into a demi-permanent colour?

Adding Tone-On-Tone Creator lowers the pH of the colour and by using 5 vol will only allow the colour to enter into the cuticle and not deep into the cortex.

How do you use it?

  • Select your chosen shade, add Tone-On-Tone Creator into the bowl and mix together before adding 5 VOL, this will reduce the alkalinity of the colour. Once mixed add 5 VOL 1:2

How much Tone-On-Tone Creator do I need to add?

  • To refresh a colour 10:1 i.e. 10m of colour to 1 ml of Tone-On-Tone Creator. If the hair is porous or you would like a kiss of colour you can add 10:5 mixing ratio.

Here’s why you’ll love it

With YELLOW PROFESSIONAL Tone-on-tone Creator you can turn all the beautiful permanent cream colours in the range into true demi-permanent colours, this means…

-Reduced Inventory and a massive cost saving.

-Broader Range, with just one product you now have a complete range of tone-on-tone colours.

-Matching Shades, for colour refreshes you will always be able to match your permanent formula.

HOW DO I USE IT?

Follow the following mixing ration Colour – Peroxide 5 vol. at 1:2 and follow the following mixing ration Colour – Tone-on-tone Creator at 10:1 (when colouring natural hair add Yellow Tone-on-Tone Creator in an equal quantity to half the quantity of the colour to avoid altering the natural base).

 

SHOP TONE-ON-TONE CREATOR NOW

 

Well we believe you & your clients really should, read on and we’ll let you know some of the reasons why?

We also think this question is a great way to grow your salon retail and encourage conversations about aftercare with your clients.

Asking clients if they double shampoo can help you as a hairdressers to grow your retail sales for a few reasons:

  • It’s an Education Opportunity: opening up a conversation about hair care routines and the benefits of double shampooing, such as more thorough cleansing and product effectiveness. This dialogue educates the client on the importance of using the right products for their hair type and needs .
  • Product Recommendation: After discussing hair care routines, you the hairdresser can recommend specific shampoos (and conditioner, treatment, styling & finishing products) tailored to the client’s hair concerns. This personalisation makes the recommendation more compelling for the client.
  • Building Trust and Expertise: By offering valuable advice, you can establish yourself as an expert in hair care, which can lead to increased trust from your client. That level of trust can translate into clients being more open to purchasing recommended products, rebooking, adding new services like treatments and changing up their style. They also become raving fans and more likely to recommend friends to use you.
  • Highlighting the Benefits of Professional Products: The discussion can also highlight the benefits of professional hair care products over supermarket brands, potentially encouraging clients to purchase higher-quality items from the salon .

Double shampooing is more than just a trend; it’s a method that promises to transform your hair care routine. OK, so here are 5 reasons we believe DOUBLE SHAMPOOING is so important…

  • Deep Cleansing: The first round of shampooing targets surface dirt, oil, and product build-up, effectively removing these initial layers of grime. This allows the second shampooing to penetrate deeper, ensuring a thorough cleanse right down to the scalp. We always recommend ELEVEN Australia’s DEEP CLEAN CLARIFYING SHAMPOO or GENTLE CLEAN BALANCING SHAMPOO as the first cleanse.
  • Enhanced Scalp Health: A clean scalp is the foundation of healthy hair growth. Double shampooing can help prevent the accumulation of sebum and residue, promoting a healthier scalp environment for the hair.
  • Improved Product Efficacy: The second shampooing isn’t just about cleansing; it’s also about preparing the hair to better absorb conditioners and treatments that follow. With the hair cuticles open post-cleanse, products can penetrate more effectively, enhancing their benefits. The second shampoo is also your chance to deal with hair concerns whether that’s HYDRATION, VOLUME, SMOOTHING. REPAIR or TONING.
  • Volume and Texture: For those looking to add volume to their hair, double shampooing can make a noticeable difference. By thoroughly cleansing the hair, it can appear fuller and thicker, as there’s no residue weighing it down.
  • Misconceptions Debunked: Concerns about hair loss from double shampooing are unfounded. When done correctly, this method does not cause hair loss but instead leaves your locks more vibrant and healthy-looking.

Incorporating double shampooing into your hair care routine can unveil the full potential of your hair and scalp health. Remember, the key is to choose the right type of shampoo that suits your hair type and condition to avoid dryness or damage.

To find out more about how Wonderful Brands can help you grow your salon retail with simple strategies and easy to understand product ranges like ELEVEN Australia speak to your Wonderful Account Manager now.

The Visionaries Behind ELEVEN Australia: A Creative Force Reshaping Haircare Education

Meet the extraordinary minds steering the ship at ELEVEN Australia – the Co-Creative Directors, the fashion industry maven, the Most Wanted Expert Educator, and the seasoned Brand Artist. Together, they are reshaping the landscape of hair and body care with a commitment to simplicity and effectiveness.

At the helm are the renowned Co-Creative Directors, Joey Scandizzo and Andrew O’Toole, whose illustrious careers as a celebrity hairstylist and award-winning photographer, respectively, have left an indelible mark on the industry. Recognizing a need for a new, innovative approach, they embarked on the journey to create a range that’s not just self-explanatory but also injects a dose of freshness and fun into your daily routine – thus, ELEVEN Australia was born.

Melvin Royce Lane, with his roots deeply embedded in the fashion industry, brings a modern and fresh perspective to education. Having directed hair for major fashion events, including Australia’s Next Top Model and prestigious fashion weeks, Melvin’s cultural inspirations shine through in his work, delivering the latest hair trends for the brand.

New to the ELEVEN Australia family is Conor Doyle, the Most Wanted Expert Educator, whose unique approach to education and content creation is set to captivate audiences at upcoming events and shows. Follow his captivating journey on Instagram, where his distinct style comes to life.

Adding a vibrant splash of color to the mix is Paul Dennison, the newly appointed ELEVEN Australia Brand Artist. With an impressive background in color expertise and a wealth of experience on stage and behind the scenes, Paul is set to elevate the brand’s education to new heights.

Last but certainly not least, Katie Groves, with over 14 years of salon and education experience, is a guiding force for stylists looking to grow in confidence. As an educator for ELEVEN Australia in the UK, she seamlessly blends real salon experience with brand knowledge to provide expert guidance and advice for stylists and salons at every level.

Together, these visionaries are not just reshaping haircare education; they are redefining the way we approach beauty and self-care. Join the ELEVEN Australia journey as they continue to simplify and elevate your hair and body care routine, one innovative product at a time.

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.

 

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

 

 

 

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