So you檙e wondering how you can pay for beauty school in an easy and efficient way? At our 黑料专区, we檝e got some simple tips on how you can apply for financial aid to get you started down the path of a beauty education. Check out how simple the process is and learn how to get started by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA庐)!

What Is the FAFSA庐 and How Do I Complete It?

Beauty school students have a lot to learn as they make their journey towards becoming beauty professionals. Applying for student aid should be simple, so rather than stressing about having to pay for school, you can focus on your learning!

The first thing to understand is where you can get financial aid from. There are plenty of private scholarships that are offered to students, even scholarships for beauty school-specific students.

But there are other options too! Federal student loans could be a good option to help students pay for beauty school. FAFSA庐 stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid after all, so it’s completely free to fill out!

One of the most frequently asked questions about the FAFSA庐 is 淲here can I go to fill it out?� The official website, , is the place to start your financial aid process. Keep in mind that if you are single and under the age of 24, your parents� information is mandatory to complete it. If you are married and have dependents you are completely supporting on your own, you won檛 need your parents to fill out the FAFSA庐 form.

If you decided to start a FAFSA庐 application, youl need to create a FAFSA庐 ID and to provide basic demographics, your social security number, and a tax return for the previous year. To submit the FAFSA庐 youl most likely need the code to the school of your choice.

Here are the codes for each of our locations:

Denver – 041671
Phoenix – E40394
Provo – 040723
Tucson – 041945

Once it檚 all signed and completed then youl be finished until someone can review your application!

The nice thing about the FAFSA庐 is that it doesn檛 take very long to fill out and it檚 effortless. You can even fill it out on a on your phone.

What檚 the Process Like With Student Loans?

There are more ways to pay for school than scholarships and FAFSA庐 money. Student loans are a viable option as well when searching out ways to pay for schooling.

First, if someone decides to take out , there is a requirement that the student has to complete an and to receive their loans. Both only take about 30 minutes to complete.

Luckily, at 黑料专区, we have financial counselors who can review info about loans and give you more knowledge on interest rates, cost of living and what loans can look like in the end for you. The promissory note is a document that you sign promising that you will repay your loans when the time comes. Both actions are mandatory to be able to be eligible for student loans.

The End of a Beauty School Journey!

If you檙e accepted into beauty school, you can expect to complete exit counseling for your direct loan. You can log in to studentloans.gov with your id username and password. Select “exit counseling for undergraduate borrowers” and it can give you great information on repayment options, the total debt owed, your grace period and a loan servicer. If you have questions you can always contact your financial aid office.

Are You Looking Into Beginning an Education in Beauty?

There are a lot of secondary education options available out there, but there檚 nothing quite like an education and a potential career in beauty. If you are looking into a future of beauty, it檚 important to research beauty schools with extra opportunities and resources, like financial aid assistance! At all four of our 黑料专区 locations we offer financial aid to those who qualify. See if you have what a beauty professional is made of and what kind of is best for you!

The post Financial Aid for Beauty School Students appeared first on Inspire Greatness.

February Spotlights

Student Spotlight:
Aisha Hurt (aka Esha) is a cosmetology student in our Expression phase.

Before attending cosmetology school, Aisha was a Customer Service and Healthcare Front Office Coordinator. When Aisha was making the decision to go back to school in the beauty industry she spent a lot of time researching and touring schools. When she toured Aveda Institute Denver she felt at home right away and has been taking full advantage of all the opportunities her education has provided so far.

What is your favorite Aveda product?

淲ow, I can’t name just one. I have a few that I love to use, like Smooth Infusion because it produces the best blowouts, and the emollient finishing gloss from the Brilliant line because it makes my hair feel so smooth, plus it has an amazing aroma. Also, the Dry Remedy Oil is great for moisture and a little goes a very long way!�

What is your favorite thing about Aveda?

淭he atmosphere! From the moment I walk into the Institute, I always feel a sense of positive and upbeat energy from the educators and students – 听which can turn any bad day into a good one. Also the team and educators are always there when you need them. They are very supportive and they are always willing to share whatever听knowledge they have. Last, but not least, all the wonderful students! I have become great friends with many and I know these relationships will last for a lifetime.�

Hero/Industry Icon or Mentor:

淧ersonally, my hero is my husband for returning that support I gave him during the 14 years he was in the Marine Corps. He also supports me in my career choice. My mentor is my father who taught me to always be myself and strive for my best, and has always been a big support in whatever I decided to do. Next, my Icon would be Johnny Wright mainly because I was lucky enough to meet him at a hair show in Atlanta and be inspired by his work behind the chair, and all the way to the White House when he was the personal stylist to Michelle Obama.�

In my spare time, you will find me:

淗anging out with my husband and kids, whether it’s bumming around the house watching old movies on Netflix or taking them to whatever events are happening around town.�

I am most inspired by:

淐reativity! I love how this industry allows you to be yourself and be as creative as you want.�

Where do you see your Aveda education taking you?

淭o wherever opportunities I take advantage of within or outside Aveda. ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES WITH AVEDA and the network. I have been a student for the past eight months and I檓 looking forward to new and exciting education that Aveda continues to offer, as well as听professional听relationships with guest educators or salon professionals. My graduation is in September of 2017, and I am really excited to look back at all my work and see how far I檝e come and to hopefully work in a top salon and maybe even be able to be a traveling stylist.�

Team Member (and Student) Spotlight:
Alicia Christus

Alicia is our Marketing coordinator at Aveda Institute Denver and will celebrate 9 years with Aveda in May of this year. She is a certified yoga instructor and has a BA in Journalism. Alicia hosts Ayurveda workshops and yoga classes for our team and students in-between coordinating events and activities on campus. She recently joined the Esthiology Program to become licensed and continue her education with Aveda.

“Joining the esthiology program has been a dream of mine since I started working when the Institute first opened in 2006, and I’m thrilled to finally start this journey and become the student, again.”

What are your favorite Aveda products?

“This changes every time Aveda launches a new product! Right now my favorites are the Tulasara Radiant Awakening Ritual (dry brush and oleation oil), the new Wedding Masque Overnight, and my long-time favorite is Air Control hair spray. The aroma is what I love most about Aveda. You know, #SmellsLikeAveda ”

Why Aveda?

“I LOVE AVEDA and the products are what inspired me to work for the brand. When I was walking by the Institute almost 12 years ago, I saw the ‘coming soon’ sign in the window and I knew this was my start to working for Aveda. I stayed with Aveda because of the Inspire Greatness brand, the vision and leadership of our owner, Dale Le Monds. I have to admit it took me some time to adjust to the idea of working in a “beauty school” because the true beauty and inspiration that happens here is never really known until you become a part of the experience. After a while, I was proud to say I work at a beauty school because it is such an amazing space. We have great students here working to change their lives and the lives of others. We are here to INSPIRE.”

Hobbies and Interests?

“Yoga. It’s pretty obvious too. I am so lucky that I can bring my passion for yoga to our Aveda community. It’s the best part of my day when I can connect to our students through yoga. It was Aveda that re-inspired my passion for yoga and eventually led to me taking a few years break to focus on yoga full-time. After about six years working in various roles here, I felt the calling to indulge in yoga. I become a studio manager and teacher trainer. I started to miss my time at 黑料专区 and, just like yoga teaches, the universe provided and I was offered a change to come back a few years ago and it’s been amazing. You can follow my story on Instagram @aliciarae_yoga or come take a class with me at CorePower Yoga Stapleton.”

Advice for students?

“Now that I am a student (only 3 weeks into the program) I am gaining to much perspective. Trust the process. Everything will come together as it is meant to be. Second, appreciate the opportunities we all have to be here. We may not all get involved in the fashion shows or Earth Month events but we have the choice and it’s pretty inspiring that we get to be a part of something more.”

“Also, I have some advice for those of you thinking about a new career or trying on something different and fun… learn about our esthiology program! This is such a cool experience, even if you aren’t sure about working in a spa. The Aveda curriculum is so rich in Ayurveda and health, wellness. It’s beautiful. It’s been fun to work with my classmates and play with the products and different services. Yesterday I learned how to do part of the dual exfoliation facial and it was so cool to see the instant results and how you can be a part of making someone feel and look beautiful.”

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

“I hope to finally own my own home and have a garden to grow my own food and some chickens, a pet pig and some rescue dogs and cats. I’ll definitely still be with Aveda and Inspire Greatness and I am open to the possibilities now that I’ll be licensed. I’ll still be teaching yoga for sure and maybe one day leading our own yoga teacher training’s here at Aveda Institute Denver.”

When I am not at Aveda, I am …

“Well, I am here a lot right now I am lucky to have great support from my husband and son who are giving me space to slack a bit on my wife/mom roles to fully engage in being a student while I work full-time. So, when I am not home with family or finding time on my yoga mat I enjoy watching movies, going on walks, shopping at Whole Foods and Natural Grocers and farmer’s markets, and drinking kombucha.”

Guest Spotlight: Wendy Correa

Meet our loyal guest, Wendy (shown here with our student, Preston). She’s one of our day makers because she’s been our guest for nearly 12 years, since we opened! She enjoys healing others in her own practice as a massage therapist and appreciates receiving the same healing here at Aveda.

Why do you come to Aveda Institute Denver?

“I always have a great day here. It’s a great day at Aveda.”

What are you favorite Aveda experiences?

“All the stress-relieving rituals and gorgeous styles and hair color I walk out with, every time.”

What are your favorite Aveda products?

“I practically own a store by now with all my Aveda products. I love them all.”

Wendy enjoys healing, writing and doing yoga in her spare time. Thank you for being our guest Wendy and for being our day maker!

Salon Spotlight: D橝metris Salon

Owners:

Ame and Dennis Metcalfe,
American Board Certified Hair Colorists

Manager: Ame Metcalfe ABCH

Years Open: since 1998

Location:听Historical Olde Town Arvada

Number of Chairs/Treatment Rooms:

7 chairs, 4 color bar chairs

Best Practices for Business Building of New Talent:听Our culture is designed so that the new talent practices “prefect practice” of the 6-figure hairdresser in three different Salon classrooms to develop successful results faster. We have proven results to coach Salon听Professionnel’s to earn 6-figures with work life balance.

Timeline: 8-12 month career training program called Protege

Pay: Guaranteed hourly wage.

Aveda graduates accelerated program available to apply for. Career and benchmark coaching monthly.

First classroom:

Three month-long intensive technical programs with three areas of focus: Haircutting curriculum听, Hair color curriculum at the American Board Certified level, and Esthetic, design, lifestyle and personality.

Second classroom:

Assists for a 6-figure hair dresser

Third classroom:

Performing Client services

Protege is Held accountable to hit benchmarks during their client building time.

Salon Celebrations:

Top 200 salon in North America areas:

Growth

Advanced training program

Customer service

Denver top hair color salon Denver AList

American Board Certified Hair Colorist

National hair color educators, Aveda Ambassador, and Inspiring Champions career Coach on the team.

New 2017 salon relocation to a highly efficient industrial chic space. We feature electric chair bases, freestyler blow-dryers, color bar and team culture.

Social Media:

D橝metri’s Aveda

@DAmetrisAvedaCO

The post Spotlights appeared first on Inspire Greatness.

January Spotlights

Student Spotlight: Natalia Starodubtseva, Massage Therapy

Natalia, aka Natasha, is currently in the Air phase of our Massage Therapy program and will graduate very soon. Prior to joining our program, and arriving to this country, Natalia has a Masters in Chemistry and was a Chemistry Teacher back in her home country, Ukraine. She was also a massage therapist and when she immigrated into the US she had to re-certify, which brought her to Aveda Institute Denver.

“I love the teamwork and togetherness. Wearing my Aveda apron makes me feel connected to something bigger.”

Favorite Aveda product: Bergamot Singular Note is my favorite Aveda product. I love the uplifting aroma and use it during my massage services.

Why did you choose to attend Aveda Institute? I chose Aveda for the excellent training, verification of knowledge, availability of well-trained practitioners, course duration and value for the price.

Hero/Industry Icon or Mentor: I have wonderful mentors in my educators LoraLee and Michelle!

In my spare time, you will find me: Swimming in the pool!

I檓 inspired most by: Knowledge.

Something unique about me is: My knowledge of several languages and cultures make my treatments very unique.

What are you most excited about accomplishing after graduation? Possessing a new specialty, a set of skills and knowledge that I can share with others!

Student Spotlight: Kelly Edgin, Esthiology

Kelly is wrapping up her first phase of our esthiology (skin care, makeup, waxing) program and recently starting offering facials in our student spa clinic. She’ll be progressing soon to offer the full spa service experience.

“I chose to attend Aveda Institute Denver because of the recognition in the beauty industry. I also wanted an education I knew others would be impressed by.”

Prior to Kelly becoming a student at Aveda Institute Denver she was a full-time foster parent for 10 years and adopted four of the five daughters she has now. It’s amazing she’s found some time for herself to go back to school and learn a new skill. Kelly is also a certified Nail Technician and AAS Interpreter for the deaf. She’s excited to complete this program and be able to offer more services to her guests.

Her favorite thing about Aveda is the sense of community. “I am inspired by the people I have met at Aveda. I have met some of the most amazing people, who’s stories are truly inspirational.”

Favorite Aveda Product: The new Wedding Masque Overnight for face and eye. The results are amazing and you can instantly see the difference in your skin.

Industry Icons: I follow many nail techs around the world through social media. They inspire me to go beyond my comfort level, to reach higher and dream big! They include:

@nailsidoadore

Poochiez Pawz Nail Studio

Tony’s Nails

@Terrencenterry

Ocean Nail Supply

My mentors included my business partner, Alana Dobbs and my CND Ambassador, Mary Chhea.

In my spare time, you’ll find me: Spare time? I don’t have any But I do hope to someday pick up the guitar again.

Team Member Spotlight: Haley Sample

We are excited to have Haley Sample transition into the Assistant Team Lead role in the Experience Center starting in February! Haley joined our team a year ago as a cosmetology educator. She’s wrapping up her current phase, teaching Grounding for our new cosmetology students. Haley brings six years of Aveda experience to our team and a passion for Aveda products!

Greatest Industry Accomplishment or Goal: When behind the chair I built my books in 6 months, became the Salon Coach within 2 years of starting my career, moved to Colorado to educate, and now becoming the Experience Center Assistant Team lead

Hero/Industry Icon: Mom and Dad, they both created me and made me the woman I am today. I am thankful for there support even through my crazy years. They continue to motivate me and push me to better my best. Being so far from them (they are in Florida) makes me have so much more value for my relationship with both of them. When I told them I was dropping out of college to go to beauty school they both cheered me on the whole way. I am very lucky and blessed to have TWO parents that are insanely good to me.

What I love most about Aveda is: The culture, we pride ourselves on taking care of all our guests. Our guests is everyone including ourselves! The wellness from inside ourselves is spread to each individual we come in contact with. We are a strong network and team, meaning wherever we go ANY Aveda is home. We strive for excellence and we believe learning never ends. Everything the mission states I believe and incorporate into my everyday life

Favorite Aveda Product: oooooooohhhh this is a little hard to say, because if anyone knows me they know I am an Aveda junkie. But if I was stranded on an isle it would be: Dry Shampoo, Air Control, Chakra 3, and TULASARA. (I tried)

Pets and/or Children: A SOON TO BE FUR Baby owner. (rescue)

In my spare time you will find me: Yoga, Workout, Any out doors activity, eating Ice Cream

I檓 most inspired by: EVERYONE AROUND ME, every life has a story and I love hearing them. The reason I got into this industry was to understand what makes a person feel beautiful and what I have learned is every soul is different. Beauty is something that comes from within and showing someone on the outside how beautiful they really are is the biggest pay off of this industry we are in. This is our creative outlook. Our way of express ourselves in colors, textures, movements, and placements. It is what I thrive off of as a being and I love being surrounded by people who feel the same way.

Advice to our students: Never give up, never stop practicing, and Never stop learning. Look at each day and experience as an opportunity to grow and learn more. Even the great services have as much to learn from as the not so great services. What made it great what made it not so great? Practice is the way to stay up in this field. There is ALOT of learning in practicing and observing the stylists around you. There is no reason to feel a day was a boring day or a waste of time. If you have the right mindset that everything is an EXPERIENCE with learning and growth attached to it, you will NEVER have a boring day in this industry.

Aveda has changed my life. It taught me everything I needed to know on how to be a successful stylist, business woman, and person. I have meet some of my lifelong friends from my Aveda Institute program and made memories I can never forget. I continue to grow with Aveda each day of work and each education course I am able to take. I love how much education is offered even after getting licensed. I recommend Aveda to anyone who is trying to gain inspiration in their life. Even if they aren’t wanting to do hair there are so many layers to this company and I am excited to continue exploring all of them!

Guest Spotlight: Katie Broeren

Meet our loyal guest, Katie (nickname, Charlie) shown here with two of our recent cosmetology graduates. Katie has been our guest here in Denver for many years and an Aveda guest for over 30 years. She’s visited salons and Institutes all over the world, including Chicago, New York, Miami, Paris and Rome.

She credits the Aveda Institute Denver experience with making her feel “beautiful and sassy.” Katie recently went for a bold, new look with this beautiful pixie cut. With this new style, her favorite Aveda styling product is the Light Elements Defining Whip.

Katie’s favorite part of the Aveda experience is the relaxing, stress-relieving scalp massage. Katie enjoys reading in her spare time and is a full-time volunteer.

Graduate Spotlight: Greg Cooper Schulze and Marty Salinas, Van Michael Salons

We are pleased to welcome back our graduates, Greg and Marty to lead a Master Series this week on balayage and bridal/updo styling, and to host a workshop for Industry Day & Education Jam.

Greg “Cooper” Schulze has been doing hair color for almost 7 years now. He started his career at Aveda Institute Denver in Colorado, where he learned from some of the best stylists in the industry. Soon after graduating he started working for one of the top salons in the industry, Van Michael Salons in Atlanta, Ga. Van Michael has one of the best training programs in the industry and has set Cooper up to be one of the top

Hair colorists in Atlanta. Cooper檚 clients include actors, top CNN personalities, and Atlanta檚 elite. He檚 behind the chair five days a week and is pleased to share his tips on balayage services.

Marty Salinas is a Master Stylist and Educator for Van Michael Salons in Atlanta, Ga. During his seven years in the Beauty Industry, Marty has specialized in Cutting and Up styling while working with some of the top stylists in the Industry. His services have been called upon for weddings, photo shoots, fashion shows and movie premieres. He has worked with the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) featuring designers: Daniel Vosovic, Burkman Bros, Emanuela Duca, and Whit; and a Campaign Commercial Shoot with Elizabeth Arden NY and Maybeline.

Marty was an Official Stylist for The Atlanta Falcon’s Cheerleaders, CNN and has worked with numerous Television and Radio Personalities. His work has been featured in Modern Luxury Brides Atlanta, The Atlantan, So Magazine, VoyageAtl and multiple Bridal Blogs. Marty was recognized as 2016 winner of “Best of Atlanta -Haircut” by Jezebel Magazine and recently had the opportunity to work NYFW styling for designers such as Kyboe, Chromat, CG(Chris Gelinas), Chiara Boni, and Delpozo. Marty will be demonstrating the secrets behind his success with updo and bridal styling.

Aveda Salon Spotlight: Wild Roots Salon

Wild Roots is a new Aveda concept salon located in Broomfield, CO. They opened on September 6, 2016. The owner, Amanda Shields is a former cosmetology educator from Aveda Institute Denver. She’ll be hosting a workshop at Industry Day next week to focus on the differences between booth rent and the salon business model.

Number of salon chairs/spa treatment rooms:
5 chairs, 1 treatment room

Services offered: Full range of hair services, including brazilian blowout, extensions, facial waxing, lash extensions

How do you support new talent? We have amazing in-salon education offered by some of our most advanced stylists, as well as Aveda Purefessionals. We also do lots of advertising and ‘deal of the days’ on social media, calling to action day of, and walk in appointments – which can be snatched up by our newest stylists! We teach the importance of pre-booking in order to retain guests, and build a solid clientele, and have a great referral program to get friends and family of everyone you see in the door.

What makes your salon/spa unique? We have a small, family feel, and a super motivated group of stylists and guests service coordinators. We encourage work/life balance, work on a 4 day work week, and also offer every 6th Saturday off for each stylist!

Stylist get a mix of in salon education, and choice of classes through Aveda, and even outside of the network depending on what they are most interested in. We also do hair and make up on location, which allows the stylist to get out of the salon and work in beautiful places! We also donate to a new nonprofit each month, including a small percent of our proceeds, as well as money raised by our wonderful guests!

Benchmark celebrations or successes:
Wild Roots Salon has grown 10% or more each month that we have been open so far!

Tips for new students? Take in every ounce of information from every educator who walks through the doors of the institute. They have so many years of collective knowledge, and are your tools for success! Use school to practice being a professional. Show up early, have great attendance, and practice the points of difference and professionalism so that you are on point and ready to go when you enter your first salon of your career!

The post Spotlights appeared first on Inspire Greatness.

The obvious question here is why would a beauty school send students to India for a study abroad experience? Let’s back up a bit…

Aveda: The Art and Science of Pure Plant and Flower Essences. Rooted, in Ayurveda, Aveda has been a pioneer in blending the world of beauty with the environment to create inner and outer beauty, balanced in wellness. It was Aveda’s founder, Horst Rechelbacher, that had the vision to change the world by changing the way we do business. After his passing a few years ago, he left a legacy of love behind, reminding us all that love is all there is. Love for the planet and people.

Today, Aveda is able to showcase that it’s rooted in a holistic, healing practice known as Ayurveda, because it’s becoming more understood in the West. Ayurveda has been around for 5,ooo plus years and originated in India as a medical practice focused on energy of the mind, body and being. We are all made of energy and the idea is to create balance through understanding energy. Ayurveda breaks down energy into three categories or doshas known as Vata (Air, Infinity) Pitta (Fire, Water) and Kapaha (Water, Earth). We are all born with a unique dosha blend and through nutrition, yoga, meditation and daily routing (dinacharya), we each have the power to use the medicines of the Earth (plants, herbs) to heal ourselves.

We may know Ayurveda more commonly in the West as “alternative medicine.” Horst spent many years in India studying Ayurveda and realized the great need in bridging the gap听between the wellness and听beauty industries. Most cosmetics, perfumes, and products were then and are still petroleum-based, synthetic, tested on animals or have toxic ingredients. His vision was clear. The products that make us beautiful should also be healthy for us.听Ayurveda is the root of Aveda. In Sanskrit, Aveda translates to mean “knowledge of all things.”

In 1978, the Aveda journey began with the听Aveda Mission and the idea that Ayurveda would be an influence in all our听products and services. We see this today through our rituals like an energizing scalp massage or relaxing sensory experience. We see it through the plant-powered products and ingredient sourcing from the Earth. We experience听it in how our guests FEEL when they leave our salons and spas. We see it in our curriculum and education.

Since 1978, we have worked with Ayurvedic consultants from India to ensure quality and performance of all our products and services. We celebrate that we can offer a Study Abroad Experience to India for our team and students as it brings them in contact with our roots.

One of our esthiology and massage therapy graduates, Grace Henniger, attended as a student along with classmates and members of the Aveda network. Travelers were guided by听Inspire Greatness Aveda Institute Operations Director, Karling Cosca, and Aveda tribal elder Helga Hefner, and Sumit and Navneeta Badola. Below, Grace shares some of her thoughts on this life-changing experience.

Q: Why did you apply for this opportunity?

A: I saw what a huge opportunity this would be to learn about Aveda and Ayurveda from where it all began.

Q: What was your favorite part of the experience?

A: Gaining听a connection with so many people who started off as strangers and left being a family. We had an amazing group of people. I became good friends with many of them and have a deep love and appreciation for all of them, especially our amazing guides, Helga Hefner, and Sumit and Navneeta Badola. Being with Helga was certainly life changing. She is one of the most beautiful souls I have had the pleasure of meeting, and her wisdom and kindness has changed my life forever. Sumit and Navneeta have become my family, and I will forever appreciate their teachings and blessings.

Q: What was something you didn’t expect to experience?

A: I learned many things about myself on this trip. Mainly I learned that I have control over everything I feel, and any situation can be made into a learning experience; so now I choose to see everything through rose-colored glasses. That’s how I saw the culture in India- everyone lives their lives through their hearts. There’s lots of gratitude and love in their everyday lives, doing daily prayers and blessings. It’s similar to America in the sense that everyone is busy with their work and families, but in India everyone is more present in what they do. That’s one thing that I have brought back with me and hope to share with many people.

Q: What did you learn most during this trip?

A: If you can be in the moment with every moment, then there is more room for joy and appreciation. Especially at the beginning and end of every day. 听Each day I now try to sit in silence and be grateful. Overall, this was such a life changing and enlightening experience. I feel so blessed to have gone through this as a student, so that as I go into my career I can bring this insight and wisdom to my guests and help transform their lives with light and love.

In the picture shared here from Grace’s Instagram, the caption reads,听“Words cannot describe how grateful I am. Watching the sunrise over the Himalayan mountains gave me the deepest feeling of purpose and serenity. I will never forget how magical this moment was. Thank you to everyone who made this happen… namaste.”

Later, an article would be shared about this Study Abroad Experience, telling the story of how the students and Aveda team members re-connected back to the same roots Horst himself started. It was Swami Rama, founder of the Himalayan non-profit hospital who introduced the Indian heritage of yoga and Ayurveda to Aveda founder, Horst. The students learned a deeper understanding of Ayurvedic treatments like Panchkarma, yoga, meditation and the basic principles of Ayurveda.

Another Aveda network听member, Naomi Dove (@avedaitgirl) shared her experience through a video she created.

“Six months ago Sue Trondson at came to Phoenix and told me that I was going to have my best year ever! Five months later, the opportunity came up to apply to study in India with Helga Hefner of AVEDA. I wish the emotion I feel right now could translate to words. Exactly six months later, I’m having my best year ever. Everything in this video is so authentic and relatable to this journey. From the music, the emotion, the creativity, the picture of Horst…the music you hear is a recording from our celebration dinner; the videos you watch are real people from the , and the photos you see are original pictures I was able to take on a real life experience at the original ashram Horst studied at with Swami Rama… I’m so humble.”

The post #BeautyHeals : India Study Abroad Experience appeared first on Inspire Greatness.

Student Spotlight: Chelsea Newman, cosmetology

Chelsea, also known as Chelly chose to attend Aveda Institute Denver because it’s “the best of the best” and because of how Aveda gives back. Her goal upon graduation is to work for a top Aveda salon and also compete in NAHA as a nail tech.

She’s most inspired by everyday life and human interaction. Her heroes are Celina Ryden and Guy Tang. Chelly is obsessed with having healthy hair which is why the damage remedy line is her favorite. Hint, hint – we just launched our new Damage Remedy split end repair!

Outside of attending the cosmetology program at AID, Chelly enjoys spending time with her husband, studying and working on gel nail designs. She loves nails too!

Team Spotlight: Kristy Fiore, Admissions Team Lead

#tbt to when our beloved Admissions Team Lead, Kristy (aka K-money) was a student at Aveda Institute Tucson in 2011! Here’s her story…

Let檚 throw it back! When I first started the program, my passion was makeup. I wanted as much training as possible so when I heard about the opportunity to take Editorial Remix with Rudy Miles and Heggy Gonzalez (and also for the amazing makeup kit that was included) I signed up! After a week of training we had our photo shoot to show off our skills� This was taken after we wrapped up for the day! Obviously, Rudy and I love each other {smiles for days}

Kristy is also our team spotlight of the month! She’s super inspired right now to prepare our next cosmetology students to begin their program next month! Kristy is not only a team leader, she’s one of our super-star Inspire Greatness Aveda Institute grads. She attended the esthiology program at our Tucson location. After becoming licensed she become a makeup artist and Spa Team Lead at Indira Salon & Spa in River North Chicago.

Her industry hero is Aveda’s own guru, Helga Hefner. Being that Kristy is an esthetician, her fave Aveda product is the Botanical Kinetics Liquid Exfoliant and she uses about 15 products daily If you have a moment, check out her Pinterest page for inspiration on decoration. She also loves to cook and because she’s a tad OCD, she finds balance in cleaning, cleaning and cleaning.

“I enjoy meeting potential students every day. Inspire Greatness Institutes changed my world. While in school at the Tucson Institute my world was turned upside down when I experience some personal challenges. The Ayurvedic practices kept me feeling grounded and grateful for the life I have. Knowing someone else is receiving the same opportunity to learn and grow as a professional and person is amazing.”

Where do you see yourself in 5 years and then 10 years?

In 5-10 years I see myself still working at Aveda. I am so grateful for the opportunities that I檝e received through Inspire Greatness Institutes. I檓 not sure what the future holds but excited to see the possibilities.

Personally, in 10 years Il be 37 (crazy) hopefully have a boyfriend or fianc茅e or husband by then and a puppy! I hope to knock some things off my bucket list (travel to Italy and Ireland). But mostly I hope to be happy : )

How do you Inspire Greatness?

I hope that I Inspire Greatness every hour of every day! As an Admissions Team Lead it is my job to inspire students to choose Aveda Institute Denver. I love attending all our give-back opportunities on and off campus!

Guest Spotlight: Lauren Havens, Professional Water Polo Coach and Licensed Esthetician

Lauren has been our guest for about a year and would one day like to become an educator here. She enjoys coming to Aveda Institute Denver for a shampoo/style with a conditioning treatment. It leaves her feeling balanced and confident. Lauren’s favorite product is the Stress-Fix Creme Cleanser, perfect for relaxation and balancing dry skin in the Colorado climate. During down time Lauren enjoys focusing on health and wellness as well as running, water skiing and snow skiing.

Lauren recently introduced us to a great organization called, Stepping Stones who we invited in this week to enjoy some beauty and wellness with our students. Lauren’s daughter, Madison (pictured here) is a member of this group as well as one of our guests.

Stepping Stones offers the opportunity to help adults with developmental disabilities to live more fulfilling lives with greater independence. Partnering with Aveda Institute Denver gives these adults their much deserved moment of beauty and wellness. They leave feeling good, connected to community, and feeling more independent.

To learn more, visit听听online at

Salon Spotlight: Urban Girls, Grand Junction, Colo

Voted “Best Salon in Grand Junction” by local residents, Urban Girls has been in business for five years and an Aveda Concept Salon for four years.

Tell us about you:

We have two owners: Amy Sheppard and MaryAnne Brown. MaryAnne attended the Aveda Institute in Minneapolis. She was a student of Horst’s. She has been working with Aveda for 30 years. Amy has worked with Aveda her entire 17-year career.

What do you love most about Aveda?

The Aveda product quality is one of the best in the industry! There is something for everyone with the great variety of product lines, styling products and aromas. The Aveda mission and support in education and business is top notch.

Biggest celebration of 2016:

The continuous growth of our business and our hitting almost all benchmarks. It has been amazing not only to see our salon grow as a whole, but also being a part of our staff growing their business.

Tell us about your salon:

Our salon is a very positive environment with a welcoming staff. We have clients comment consistently on how wonderful the vibe is when they come in the door. We have a staff of five senior stylists, including ourselves. We have 3 mid-level stylists and one entry level stylist. We have a full time esthetician and a full time nail technician as well. Our staff also includes 2 assistants that are working their way to becoming stylists. In our assistant program, they get the opportunity to work under us and our other senior stylists giving them the chance to transition smoothly from a school environment to a salon environment. Assisting is a hands on way to become familiar with the Aveda color line, products and standards.

What are you looking for when you hire new team members?

Motivation and enthusiasm in their creativity. Their ability to be a positive, contributing team member that believes in our culture is of utmost importance.

Do you offer continuing education?

Yes!!! Not only do we offer continuing education, it is something that we consider a priority. We do in salon education as well as sending staff to Denver for formal education through Aveda. We require that each member of our staff take class through the Aveda Education department 2 times per year. We also pay for the classes and cover travel and accommodations since many classes are outside the Grand Junction area.

August Spotlights

Student/Graduate Spotlight: Grace Henniger

Meet Grace Henniger, team member, student and graduate of Aveda Institute Denver! Yes, she檚 all that and a bag of chips! Grace just joined our massage therapy program and just recently graduated from our esthiology program. While she檚 been a student, she檚 also be a Student Advisor in our Experience Center.

Grace is a licensed hairstylist and a level 2 reiki practitioner. Her vision is to own a healing center that incorporates massage, esthetics and reiki. She檚 excited to begin her career and continue to grow through experience and education.

When she檚 not at AID, which is rare, she enjoys cooking, baking, cat time and relaxing with her best friend, Sabrina. She檚 mostly inspired by her guests when she檚 helping them walk through different parts of their journey.

Grace chose Aveda become of the great reputation and because, 渆veryone I have met from Aveda is incredibly talented.� Her mentor is our spa educator, Bethany, her first educators and the person she had a deep connection with. They share similar intention and energy behind their passion.

Tulasara, the new skin care launch from Aveda is Grace檚 favorite Aveda product line because of the Ayurvedic connection. Get to know Grace more by visiting our Experience Center or in about six weeks when shel begin taking massage appointments in our student spa clinic.

Team Member Spotlight: Brad Van Dyke, Education Director, 黑料专区

Who doesn檛 know Brad Van Dyke? B-dazzle, B-rad. If you have not had the pleasure of meeting him yet, be sure to introduce yourself the next time he in on campus! Brad is our Inspired Education Director for all Inspire Greatness Institutes.

Get to know Brad a little better today. A man who is inspired by life and helping other live their best life. His advice for our students: 淟earn the foundations so deeply that you can intelligently break the creative 渞ules,� and STAY inspired!�

Brad has a degree in Exercise Science/Wellness, Psychology, with a Coaching Minor and is licensed in Massage and Esthetics which sets the tone for a well-balanced leadership style. Brad has been in the industry for over 20 years and with Inspire Greatness for 11 years. In fact, he was part of the inaugural team that opened the doors to Aveda Institute Denver back in 2005!

Being that Brad splits his time between our four Inspire Greatness locations in Denver, Tucson, Phoenix and Provo, as well as teaching Purefessional classes for Aveda and diving into editorial projects, and also being an owner of a salon, it檚 rare he has much down time but then he chooses to stay immersed in this industry because to Brad, it檚 not work if it檚 something you enjoy doing.

淗aving ADHD, I choose not to have spare time. I fill my time with throwing myself into as many editorial projects as I can, I enjoy playing outside (hiking, working out, staying active, spending time at Red Rocks). I balance my time with my partner, Justin and we do carve out time to enjoy traveling together or relaxing on our patio.�

Brad檚 greatest industry accomplishments are many including achieving Aveda Purefessional, becoming a salon owner, earning a NAHA nominee for makeup artist of the year, and growing to become the Education Director at 黑料专区.

His industry icons are Jon Reyman and David Wagner for business and for makeup, his icons are Isamaya Ffrench, Pat McGrath, Janell Geason and of course the talented Heggy Gonzalez.

淲hat I love most about Aveda is EVERYTHINGroma, efficacy, and education. My Aveda favorites fluctuate as I am lucky enough to have a full closet devoted to Aveda products so I can mix and match my favorites based on my mood, feelings and needs. I always also love what new with Aveda.�

Graduate Spotlight: Rae Black, AID cosmetology graduate
as featured in our Inspire Greatness Blog

We are pleased to feature our graduate and cosmetology educator, Rae Black! She graduated from Aveda Institute Denver in 2011 and just celebrated her one-year anniversary as a cosmetology educator for Aveda Institute Phoenix. She has also launched her own business dialing into the world of hair extensions.

Q: What has your education provided for you in your career?

What I remember most about my school experience is my educators. I was so blessed to have the same ones through my journey and they supported me and helped me come into my own as an extension specialist and stylist. Carrie Bellus, Brad Van Dyke and Dale Le Monds allowed me to practice my extensions on the floor as a students and in class. With all this practice I was able to really perfect my skills, so when I graduated I knew what direction I was going in and I hit the ground running.听My education provided me a stable environment and taught me life skills and more communication skills. It taught me to use my creativity and put my guests’ needs first and how to listen.

Q: Share how you are building your career.

These days I am still flying for Skywest as I have 11 years seniority now. I also teach part time at the Aveda Institute Phoenix under the guidance of Ericka Robinson and Katrina Bervin. I just hit my one year anniversary and I’m really proud of that. I have launched my own hair extensions line called听听my Website is听. My main goal is to grow my hair extension business by getting into local beauty supply stores. I want to distribute hair and be a consultant about extensions for Aveda salons. I host regularly-occurring听extensions and braiding workshops听at Aveda Institute Denver and at Aveda institute Phoenix. I also make wigs for those that have severe hair loss and I custom color the hair using Aveda hair color.

Q: What do you love most about Aveda?

The lifestyle. Aveda is about love and beautiful things. We make beautiful hair and make people feel good about themselves.

Q: What advice or tips would you share with our current students?

I would tell them to hang in there because school flies by fast and you have to take all the information you can from your educators. Whatever听you听put into听your听education,听you’ll听get in the end. When you put in 50听percent,听you will be a mediocre hair stylist. When you put in 100 percent, you will hit the ground running.

Q:听What does Inspire Greatness mean to you?

I would like to share how much I appreciate Dale and and Inspire Greatness. I remember during school always going in his office picking his brain about things, especially business. He is a great business man and family man and he cares about his students. I remember we use to make fun of him about his golfing out-fits and socks and he just laughed along with us – 听it was great. He supported me and believed in me and his still does till this day.

You know you檙e doing good by your students when they come back to work for you.

I also want to thank Brad for his love, mentorship and support. I consider him a real friend. I have talked to him about numerous things and he is always listening and has a solution and suggestions.
Allison Olean, Experience Center Advisor and AID Esthiology Graduate

Allison has chosen to work at the Aveda Institute Denver for many, many reasons! First being their mission statement, which is something she have stood by whole heartedly since she was a student at AID. She graduated from the esthetics program in May of 2016 and missed it so much that she wanted to come back! Allison says that Aveda is an amazing company and the institute has changed her life in more ways than one.

She moved around a few times in her life but most recently from the Colorado Springs area, where her family still lives. As a child she spent a lot of her time having her mother teach her about the spa industry. Her mom has been a neuromuscular rehabilitation massage therapist for over 30 years and is the reason she gained such a passion for this industry. Allison started attending the Aveda Institutes esthetics class because of her passion for skin care and makeup. She obtained high honors every phase of her program! After receiving her esthetics license, she jumped at the opportunity to work for AID and hope to one day become a makeup purefessional. She is so excited to be a part of the Aveda family again!

Liz, Student Care Support and AID Graduate

Liz joins our team in Student Care as a support to our lead, Rachael. She brings with her many years� experience in the salon/spa industry. She is an AID graduate and was recently a Massage Therapist Manager while working in the spa. She檚 excited to return to the AID family with a unique and fresh perspective on the growing salon/spa听industry.

淚n my down time I mostly spend time with my pup, Indie, adventuring around Colorado on foot or bike.听I believe in the power of touch and creating meditation through movement, expanding my vast love听of practicing yoga. I am down to earth and easy to talk to. I want to create an open door,听connecting and developing relationships on campus!�

Salon Spotlight: Europa Salon Spa & Barber Shop

Europa is located in Old Town, Fort Collins and has been open for business for 18 years! It offers 5,000 square feet of beautiful space hosting salon, spa and barbershop services. The salon has 16 chairs, 3 barbershop chairs and the spa hosts four treatment rooms. They also have a beautiful guest waiting area near the retail store and a relaxing nail spa area. Europa prides themselves in living the Aveda mission and hosts many mission-aligned events including hair shows, fundraisers and wellness events, especially in support of Earth Month.

The salon and spa offer training programs for new talent and support growth with marketing, social media, referral programs, events and a strong focus on continuing education. Europa enjoys a prime location in Old Town Fort Collins with great walk-by traffic and loyal guests alike. Connect with their manager Aimee Welch for more information about hiring opportunities or visit their Website europafc.com for more information.

July Spotlights

Team Member& Graduate Spotlight
Sabrina Marben
Experience Center Team Lead

I am a Denver native and the youngest of four girls. I grew up in the salon industry with both my mom, a barber, and sister, a cosmetologist. My mom is a salon owner and we were always doing hair and makeup growing up. My two passions are up-do’s and nail care/art. I graduated in 2006 as valedictorian in my cosmetology class at the Aveda Institute Denver. I worked behind the chair for a few years and then moved into management. It has been an honor to work with Aveda over the past 10 years to see the growth and development from future professionals to successful salon stylists.

I have chosen to work with Aveda because they care about the environment and our overall well-being. I believe in using natural ingredients in all aspects of our lives. I also think we have a wonderful opportunity to give back to our community during earth month as well as partnering with indigenous tribes around the world.

This September is my 5-year anniversary to my wonderful husband, Mitchell.听 We have two amazing children and a Boxer named Sammie. Brooklyn is 4 and Lucas is 3. They love reading and using their imagination. We love to spend time outdoors, baking, and learning new things. In my free time I enjoy crafts, gardening, painting, and spending time with my family. I am thrilled to have an opportunity to work at the Aveda Institute Denver to share my knowledge and excitement about this extraordinary industry.

听Say Hey to Chee, new team member of Reservations and an AID graduate!

“I’m excited to be back with Inspire Greatness and Aveda. I am truly inspired by the way Aveda cares for anyone and everything they come in contact with. St. Baldrick檚 and Earth Month are two of my favorite opportunities to give back. Before and during school at AID I was a nanny for four years and in childcare before that. I’m a HUGE makeup lover and I tend to binge watch YouTube tutorials in my free time. I’m so excited to start this next journey with Aveda and the IG team!
Chee is also getting married on August 8, 2016. Congratulations to the happy couple!

Say Hey to Bri Massey, AID graduate and former Guest Services team member, back to join us in our Reservations department because she missed us too much!

淚檓mmm back!!!

My name is Brianna Massey but go by Bri. I graduated from AID in September 2014, and I am a licensed cosmetologist. I worked in both the Experience Center and Reservations departments at AID for a year and a half. I left the Institute in April of this year to work in a salon and in a barber shop, and it just didn檛 feel like home. AID is home. I will be starting the barber program in November and couldn檛 be more excited! I can檛 wait to reconnect and see all of your beautiful faces!�

Student Spotlight
Cosmetology Student, Casey Omran

Meet Casey, a full time mom, travel blogger, former flight attendant and now full time student as Casey is adding a cosmetolgoy licensure to her professional career following earning a degree in natural product manufactering.

滻 chose to attend Aveda Institute Denver because it檚 simply the best and I want to be the best. I want to be taught by and surrounded by the best. I love the energy here.�

Recently Casey was recognized for earning a 5-star Yelp review for her great guest service! Her favorite Aveda product is the Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair because everyone can benefit from it and the results are easy to see. (Hint, hint Casey � if you love this prodcut, then youl love the soon-to-launch Damage Remedy Split End Hair Repair).

Casey loves the Aveda mission and the high-performing products. 淚 love that the products I use on my guests are healthy for me and my guests to be working with every day.�

Casey檚 industry hero is a stylist named Jeannie Ray. She not world famous, however, she檚 a daymaker to her guests she檚 been taking care of for over 20 years. Jeannine is always fully booked and busy, and that檚 where Casey wants to be in five years.

淚檓 inspired by transformations in my guests. I have a heart for moms especially who often struggle to get any time to focus on themselves. I love having a mom sit in my chair and feel and see her energy shift when she sees how amazing she looks when I’m finished. I’m a mom of two daughters age four and six. Any time I檓 off from school, I檓 nurturing them into happy and productive little people.

Upon graduation, Casey plans to open her own salon and begin taking care of the beauty needs in her community. For now, you can call and schedule services in our student salon clinic at 303-567-7500.
Salon Spa Spotlight

Tall Grass Spa + Salon

Owner, Gail Sharp

Spa Director, Melissa Rackliff
Years Open: 20
4 salon chairs

8 spa rooms

Tall Grass is a 渄ay spa with a destination feel� nestled in the quintessential Colorado backdrop of Evergreen, Colo and has been in business for 20 years. Though mostly spa-focused, Tall Grass is also a full-service hair and nail salon. Their trademark advertising features animals often enjoying spa experiences and they cleverly promote their location at the 6^th Avenue entrance off Kalamath in Denver � which brings them plenty of business city business.

Tall Grass offers Aveda products because of the high quality and variety. They appreciate the Aveda commitment to sustainability and giving back.听 Aveda檚 mission aligns with the TallGrass mission and value statements.听Tall Grass actively seeks to hire AID graduates because 渢hey are well trained and knowledgeable about creating a path to success.听 They hold similar values and have an outstanding work ethic.�

As Tall Grass is currently hiring graduates for the salon and spa, they happily share some valuable tips for success for our students. 淲hen entering the job force, seek out the right fit for you. Look at compensation and location, of course, but look closely at the culture � what do they consider important?听 Does that align with your own life, actions and beliefs?听 Take the time to find the place where you will thrive and be sustained in all aspects.听 Take opportunities for growth and learning where and whenever you can!听 Don檛 be afraid to make mistakesearn from them.听 Leap. Stretch. Become the best version of you.�

The post Aveda Institute Spotlights: Team, Students, Graduates and Guests appeared first on Inspire Greatness.

Q: What has your education provided for you in your career?

What I remember most about my school experience is my educators. I was so blessed to have the same ones through my journey and they supported me and helped me come into my own as an extension specialist and stylist. Carrie Bellus, Brad Van Dyke and Dale Le Monds allowed me to practice my extensions on the floor as a students and in class. With all this practice I was able to really perfect my skills, so when I graduated I knew what direction I was going in and I hit the ground running.听My education provided me a stable environment and taught me life skills and more communication skills. It taught me to use my creativity and put my guests’ needs first and how to listen.

听Q: Share how you are building your career.

These days I am still flying for Skywest as I have 11 years seniority now. I also teach part time at the Aveda Institute Phoenix under the guidance of Ericka Robinson and Katrina Bervin. I just hit my one year anniversary and I’m really proud of that. I have launched my own hair extensions line called my Website is . My main goal is to grow my hair extension business by getting into local beauty supply stores. I want to distribute hair and be a consultant about extensions for Aveda salons. I host regularly-occurring听extensions and braiding workshops听at Aveda Institute Denver and at Aveda institute Phoenix. I also make wigs for those that have severe hair loss and I custom color the hair using Aveda hair color.

The lifestyle. Aveda is about love and beautiful things. We make beautiful hair and make people feel good about themselves.

I would tell them to hang in there because school flies by fast and you have to take all the information you can from your educators. Whatever you听put into your听education, you’ll听get in the end. When you put in 50听percent,听you will be a mediocre hair stylist. When you put in 100 percent, you will hit the ground running.

The post Graduate Spotlight: Rae Black appeared first on Inspire Greatness.

黑料专区 Denver, Tucson, Phoenix, Provo are proud to offer Master Series presentations on campus as a point of difference in our education. This July, we are pleased to welcome, Jim Pacifico.

Jim has been in the industry since 1970 and is currently the owner of Centre Salons and World Class Financial Services. In 2014, Jim was the recipient of Aveda Corporation檚 淟ifetime Achievement Award�. Jim was honored by Aveda with this prestigious award last month for his many years of hard work, dedication and philanthropy work over the many years in the beauty industry…

Jim began his career in 1970 with Clairol, in 1980 he worked with Zotos and in 1986 he joined Aveda Corporation as the Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Education. In 1989, Jim moved to Southern California and became the Senior Vice President and General Manager at Caesar檚 Beauty Products, exclusive Aveda Distributor. In 1991, he moved to Colorado and became the President and CEO of Pacifico檚 Beauty Products, exclusive Aveda distributor for Colorado and Wyoming. His success led Pacifico檚 to acquire a six-state region. In 2007 Jim merged his distribution back to Aveda to become the Consulting Vice President for Aveda Services, Inc. for the West Coast Region. This allowed Jim the opportunity to own his own Aveda Concept Salons;听five Centre Salons & Spas in Colorado,听one in Utah and听one in California. He is also the owner and founder of World Class Financial Services which provides accounting services to over 100 Salons and Spas throughout the Aveda Network.

听Jim has never lost sight of the community during this time. His philanthropy work over the years has been very generous. He has led his employees to raise money and awareness for many different charitable causes. Some examples: collecting food, toys and money for underprivileged children & their families, the homeless, Katrina victims, as well as raising money for clean water in our region. Jim latest quest in philanthropy work is leading his salons to fund-raise over $67,000 for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation; visit for more info.

Jim is dedicated to providing legendary support to the beauty industry, its professionals and customers. His passion in the industry is evident in his desire to improve the salon industry as well as giving back to the community.

听In 2014, Jim was the recipient of Aveda Corporation檚 淟ifetime Achievement Award.” Jim was honored by Aveda with this prestigious award last month for his many years of hard work, dedication and philanthropy work over the many years in the beauty industry.

The post Inspire Greatness Presents: Master Series with Jim Pacifio appeared first on Inspire Greatness.

So grateful for the opportunity I’ve been given the last few years. They say dreams don’t work unless you do. Believe me it’s true. I’ve laid awake at night thinking of the next move how to be better. Pushing for more out of my life knowing this life has more to offer. This goal has moved me to Los Angeles where I became apart of now my amazing salon family at @kenpavessalon where I can’t thank @kenpaves enough for allowing me to grow as a stylist and a creative human! The la…st year I started modeling a ton in LA as a way to meet people and still create and colab as an outlet. The past few months I signed with @firstlondon ?? and today I leave for a few week trip to work and grow even more! I can not express how grateful I am for the support of my friends and family and clients! I can’t wait to share my travels with y’all the next few weeks!!

Recently, we had a chance to catch up with Graham and find out how he’s grown to become a successful stylist at Ken Paves Salon in Los Angeles, Cali. And we’ll discuss his modeling career too…

@grahamnation

Following graduation from Aveda Institute Denver, Graham started working at Matthew Morris Salon where he worked hard for about 15 months to build a clientele and then later joined the Juno Salon team in Denver, Colo. He shared how it was tough working behind the chair in his early years and he also bartended part-time to help steady his income.听Graham describes his first few听years behind the chair as a trial period where he learned from his mistakes, developed his craft and finally felt confident as a stylist.

I failed a lot those first years but for every loss there was a gain.

With his mind set on success and knowing that meant being fully booked, Graham make a big change in his life and got sober and a few months later, he says everything took off and started happening for him. He worked 7 days a week, hungry for success.

Graham desired to “make waves” in the industry so he set intention to move to New York and become more involved with fashion week and a celebrity clientele. Alas, after a short time he realized he wanted sunshine, warmer climate and a car to drive around so he headed West for Los Angeles, a better city to “make waves.” He finally made it to LA but the job he had lined up fell through. He was crushed but he didn’t give up hope. He put his networking skills to use and connected with those people who knows someone, who knows someone, who knew Ken Paves.

Let’s back up a bit because it wasn’t this easy. Graham had connections to other salons in LA and Beverly Hills but they want high-end, quality, experienced stylist – which he feels he’s still aspiring to be – and to get to that point he would have to be an assistant for six months up to 2 years. In Graham’s mind, this wouldn’t be a challenge for a 20-something stylist starting his/her career but being he just turned 30 at the time, he felt he didn’t have time to start at the beginning… again.

Kelsey Christian at LA models by Kimo Lauer hair by Graham Nation me on beat shot at #KPSstudios #marccornwall #makeupbyme #lightdusting #Kenpavessalonla � with Kimo Lauer and Graham Nation at Ken Paves Salon.

Fast forward, Graham walks into Ken Paves salon and immediately clicked with Ken. “He was (is) the coolest dude,” says Graham. In their meeting, Graham said he was asked two questions by Ken that he has rarely heard in the industry (which made him realize he had landed exactly where he needed to be). Ken asked, “What do you want to do? How can I help you?” Twenty days later, Graham was working with his first celebrity guest, a model. A few weeks before this interview, he had Eva Longoria as a guest for a shampoo and style.

Graham worked seven days a week at his training that led to a series of test-outs and presentations听including nine color services, 12 haircuts听while working an听additional 40 hours a week assisting. The expectation was to get his timing down and presentation factor set to the Ken Pave’s听Salon level.

I’m on the path and it feels right. My continued vision of success is building a brand, owning a home and my own list of clients.

As he settled in his salon in LA, Graham got back into modeling and is working with First Model Management听in London. He has also worked with the Ted Gibson team听as part of the haircutting stage team for New York Fashion Week. Graham continues to be inspired by his mentors, Ken Paves and Geno Chapman, and he also credits his time at Aveda Institute Denver and Matthew Morris as being instrumental to being where is his now and where he’s headed.

 

The educators gave so much of their time for a reason. I remember Scott, my educator, always saying “stay focused” there’s so much more out there but be in the moment and learn this first. I had to learn discipline. You have to learn discipline or you won’t have a career.

Throw back to 2009 when Graham was a cosmetology student, and DJ. Here he’s providing the music soundtrack for our Earth Month Hair & Makeup Show.

His advice for our students is simple and involves living the Aveda mission:

Timing. Always be 15 minutes early. You cannot be late for a client, ever so don’t be late to school.

Take advantage of the yoga. I realize now it was the best thing for mental focus.

[credit to his educator, Scott] Stay focused. When you’re tired and over it, that’s when you need it the most. Know what you want and learn what the industry can offer you. Anyone can learn hair but you have to show up, be positive and stay motivated.

From being fresh out of beauty school to working through the failures and mistakes that led to opportunity, Graham paved his way to make his mark in the industry. We, at Inspire Greatness Institutes, know this is just the beginning of Graham “making waves” and they’re about to get even bigger.

Graham travels to Denver often and works as a guest stylist at Indie Six salon. Appointments can be scheduled directly through Graham by visiting his page or follow his story on Instagram

The post Paving the Way – Graduate Spotlight with Graham Nation appeared first on Inspire Greatness.

Like, Luis Gonzalez, purefessional and owner of Vida Salon in Denver, Colo. He joined us this morning to host a color workshop and share his techniques for color applications, inspired by his love, Aveda Hair Color Magic!

Like any traditional Aveda class, he started off with the Aveda mission, learning what we are excited about lately when it comes to the mission: caring for the world, setting an example, creating a lifestyle, inspiring others. Luis’ current focus is the part of the mission where we STRIVE.

“If you don’t start today, you lose today. If you don’t start this month, you lose an entire month. If you wait another year to start doing what you love, you lose another year!” says Luis. When it comes to being successful in this industry, he believes it’s all about knowledge. “If you’re really knowledgeable about what you’re doing, it shows. You have to know what you’re talking about.”

Although most of the presentation was about technique, Luis’ message was clear: Strive. He spoke often about the importance of finding what you’re passionate about. “You have the power to be as successful as you want and make as much money as you want. It’s all about what you are doing to do to get there.”

Luis’ story began at a听beauty college where he left with enough foundation to get him started but a quick realization that he needed to learn more. He started working for Regis in a salon where he was charging $50 for haircut, admittedly, not exactly knowing had to cut hair – but he had determination, confidence and STRIVE! With a thirst for knowledge, he joined the training program at The Academy where he left with more knowledge but again, more STRIVE to learn even more. He joined the Centre salon team, where he grew successfully for six years. During that time he became an Aveda color purfessional, focusing on the Hair Color Magic program. Currently his salon, Vida, located in the the Highlands area of Denver, is currently the only salon certified with Hair Color Magic.

Luis travels around the network to host color workshops and trainings on this system that he describes as a way to learn how color formulation actually works. “It teaches one to actually formulate color so it eventually becomes predictable.”

Through the demonstration, Luis shared a few more tips on success in the beauty industry:

“What is success? Money? It has nothing to do with money. Success is doing what you love. The money will be there.”

Luis become a salon owner about three 1/2 years ago, stating he’s always had a strong business minded focus but lately he’s been motivated by editorial projects. “Editorial work keeps me inspired and it’s hard work that doesn’t make any money. What it does is keeps me motivated to be behind the chair five days a week. That’s my bread and butter. Being in the salon.”

Another tip from Luis? Sure, he’s got many to share and since he’s pretty successful, we are listening…

“Embrace everything that’s happening right now in school. Everything you are being taught will matter and apply in the salon: rituals, retailing, prebooking. Right now is the time to take advantage of every thing you are being offered. And, also, treat every guest like they’re a six-figure guest.”

Luis is available for follow up questions and support and will be auditioning new talent for his salon in June 2016. To connect, follow him on Instagram @lgonzalezhaircolor or email him direct at听Luis@vidasalon.net

The post Luis Gonzalez Master Series Presentation appeared first on Inspire Greatness.

My听day begins with all things Aveda, like Control Force, Smooth Infusion Nourishing Styling Creme, Volumizing Tonic and Pure Abundance Hair Potion to create lots of volume! #pumpupthevolume #avedaproducts

Then it’s off to school, which begins at 8:30 am. Aveda Institute Denver is located on the 16th Street Mall between Stout and California streets, which happens to be the busiest block on the mall. We have over 20,000 residents and 120,000 workers听in downtown Denver. Students offer all the salon and spa services at a relaxed price. Hair cuts start at $15, spa services range from $40 to $50. #downtowndenver #visitdenver

This is my pose! These two girls have made my life so much brighter! What’s beauty school without the amazing friendships? I can definitely say it wouldn’t be nearly as fun without them. #classmates #bestfriends #beautyschool

My mentor and educator, Jenna has truly made learning the best thing it could ever be! I’ve learned so much from her, not only about beauty but also about life. She has helped me face all of my fears – head first. She has the sweetest heart and is by far one of the greatest educators I’ve ever had. Thank you Jenna, for everything! #inspiregreatness #bestteacher #avedaeducator

I learned what it truly means to be patient during this service. I did my first live color cleanse and, wow, was it an experience! Since I started the program July 2015 and began services in the fall. Since then I have completed over 50 services so far. I attend school three days a week so I am on the clinic floor for two and in class for one day each week. #colorcleanse #avedacolor #process

School is out! Dinner for two. Every night I cook dinner and it’s my favorite time of the day. I’m discovering that cooking is another passion of mine. #burritobowls #avedalife #topchefhairstylist

Goodnight world. Wrapping up my day-in-the-life as a cosmetology student at Aveda Institute Denver. Time to sleep with soft, clean skin with help from the Botanical Kinetics line and then wind-down with some hot tea and a good book. I am a sucker for social media also. I love seeing all the new trends. #socialmedia #zzz #avedaskincare #industrytrends

~shared by Allexus Gallegos @allbyalexusg 2016

Our next programs begin soon! Enjoy our 3-day program for cosmetology, esthiology or massage therapy. For more information text or call Kristy at 720-560-2155 or email kfiore@avedadenver.com听For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit

The post Day-in-the-Life of an Aveda Beauty School Student appeared first on Inspire Greatness.