Urban Hair Humor in 2017

Haircut and styling transformation by Benita Blocker

COWORKER #1:  Did you cut all your hair off just to wear a wig?
COWORKER #2:  (In answer to Coworker #1) No, she just is wearing a different wig today.

My new client:  (staring at both of her coworkers) Excuse me. That was my all of my hair before my haircut, and this is all of my hair now.  I don't wear wigs!

Huge compliment on my relaxer and haircutting skills!!!! BOOM!

Benita Blocker: Specialized in What?

I am asked all the time what do I specialize in? Or people assume that I do a lot of natural hair because my hair is natural. The crazy thing is that hairstylists often conform to the demands of the clients coming to them. "When in Rome; do as the Romans."

So before I answer the question as to "what hair services that I specialize in," please allow me to explain

• Every year,  I am taking continuing education classes in haircutting, haircoloring, blow-drying, and cosmetic artistry.  I take refresher courses in hair extensions and smoothing treatments as well.
• There are specialty salons for blow-dry styling only as well as colorists as well as barbershops.
• I would literally lose my mind if I did the same thing all the time day in and day out.  So in one day, I can tighten locs, roller set relaxed hair, perform a relaxer service, and perform haircoloring to cover gray hair.
• My salon clientele is built on chemical services. I love my clientele because they are good spirited people.
• As a business owner, the work of one will always be the "work of one."  I have always been looking to add quality hairstylists to my salon.

So back to the original question, 

I specialize in personalized hair solutions for medium to long hair.  

Even though, my own hair is Sisterlocked in which I self maintain, locs are NOT for everyone's lifestyle.  Also, chemicals are NOT good for every hair types.  I partner with clientele to assist in review of all their hair options based on their curl behavior, lifestyle, and hair type.

I am advanced in haircutting and haircoloring because of the classes that I take, but if someone needs a full head of multi-dimensional foils, then I will have to refer them out because even the best colorists need an assistant to complete certain color services with optimum speed.

I will also mention that I am a classic hairstylist.  Flips, spikes, and other edgy finishing touches are NOT my thing.  

And to the naturalistas:  unless you are "wash and go" or want flat twist, individual twists, loc start-up, or to go into chemicals, then I am at my limit with pressing the hair without chemicals.  Typically, most people with hair that is easy to straighten, then they can "do-it-yourself" at home.  The naturalistas that come to the salon to be straighten, typically require a fine line between movement and hold.  I  often give my best effort, but I usually have no idea with new clients whether the procedure held for more than a week or two.

Also, I do not like micro short haircuts.  I specialize in medium to long haircutting.

I believe in stocking a variety of hair treatments and conditioners as well as keeping luxury shampoos in my arsenal.  I am definitely committed to assisting new clients in seeing a new outlook on their hair if they are ready for a change.

My salon is located in a shopping center with free parking. It's called Applebaum.  Also, our Facebook page is Applebaum's Phenomenal Haircare because it's more about the care of one's hair versus the size of the salon.

I am licensed in California, Georgia, and North Carolina.  I am always accepting new clients.  So Welcome to Applebaum 101!

10th Salon Anniversary Secrets

The local Citizens newspaper announces Applebaum Hair Salon 10th Anniversary!  

The salon has stood the test of time not because of perfection, but because of focus on progression!

Finances

The salon owner should be able to cover all the salon expenses even if every hairstylist decides to quit.  Additional staff should be a bonus not a setback.  It can be a trial and error process in selecting "human resources" for any company.

Hair Shows

I have attended International hair shows in Long Beach, California;  Orlando, Florida as well as Atlanta, Georgia.  If any hairstylist feels that they can not afford to attend a hair show or even a local product knowledge class, then they need to skip paying a bill and attend especially if they see more than a few classes or speakers that you want to hear a word from.  The knowledge that you learn will deliver a huge return on investment and get your clients buzzing about you!

I assure you if you are in a downturn, it is not going to get better doing the same old things.  Fresh new products, fresh  new techniques, and networking to achieve fresh new ideas are important for growth.  If other staff hairstylists are not bringing new flavor to the salon, then you have to go out and find some more flavor!

Products

I only use 10% of the products that were introduced to me in cosmetology school.  So cosmetology students should know that there are a lot more product options out there!

50% of the products that I use now were not even developed ten years ago.

90% of my products have been improved within the last five years.

So the right products used at the right time can make a exponential impact on your salon business in a positive way. The wrong choices can impact your salon in a negative way.  Sometimes people are respectful and know that you are not perfect, but in this "dog eat dog" world, expect the worst and hope for the best.  Faith in a Higher Power keeps you going.

Education

I have a Bachelor's degree and an extensive work history in Corporate America.  This formal education assists me in my professional communication skills.  Smooth talk and "bedside manners" will get you plenty of opportunity, but meeting your customer needs keeps you in business.  

Finding your Niche

Every celebrity hairstylist is not a good fit for everyone that sits in their chair.  The same principle applies to your local hairstylists, successful hairstylists have their niche.  For some, it's short and sassy hair.  For others, it's hair illusion.  For someone else, it's silky straight.  Yet, another hairstylist can specialize in just teaching fellow hairstylists.  You do not have to restrict yourself to being behind the chair.

Another niche can also be a system based salon for production.  One salon owner that I met only offers roller sets, haircolor, and relaxers.  Any other requests then you have to go somewhere else.  Of course, with the natural hair trend still going strong, I am not sure if she is still practicing hair or not.  But the point is that hairstylists have to find a signature and focus on it.  It is okay to transition into another signature as trends change.  We all have to adapt always.

Social Media

You have to get involved in some social media to stay in the game.  Instagram and Facebook are two basics.

My hair blog is over five years old and has over 500,000 pageviews, but I love to write.  If writing is not your strength, then do not start the blog.  I am not a graphic designer so my blog is plain, but it works well enough.  If I can get someone who wants to help enhance it along my journey, then that is great too!

Social media keeps your business buzzing even if you are on vacation!  It is a must in this modern day society!  

Cheers to another ten years!

10th Anniversary of Applebaum Hair Salon - Lake Norman, North Carolina!

2013 Applebaum Salon Collection

 

 Our 2013 Photo Shoot was a success!  Our host location was Noodletasia restaurant in Huntersville, NC.  Photography by Soul Art Photography!

My clients styled their own hair and applied their own makeup for this photo shoot.  I wanted to showcase real women, real life, and good spirits.  My goal is:    Wholesome Hair and a Wholesome Life at any age!  Special thanks to these clients who showed up for the photo shoot!  It would not have been a success without you!

 I focus on the health of the hair first, then I focus on style.  If you have a special occasion, then I can put extra emphasis on glamour!  My clients typically are beautiful from within, and this makes my job easy to radiate the beauty out.  Positive energy and productive attitudes.  Consider joining our hair family!

Ombre Hair Using Hairdreams Hair Extensions

 Applebaum Salon has been a Hairdreams Luxury Hair Extensions Partner salon since 2004.  Using Hairdreams' "top of the line" hair is a great way to achieve Ombre hair.  If we only go for thickening, then two colors will show through.  If we try for lengthening, then we end up with three colors:  The roots, the blended colors, the pure extensions' color.

 Hairdreams require a consultation to determine the number of pre-tipped strands that are needed to achieve the look that you desire.  At least 50 strands is needed to achieve Ombre hair without adding any length.

 Hairdreams strands blend nicely with the existing hair.

Hairdreams is a preferred brand of hair extensions by celebrities such as Lady Gaga.

Salon Highlight: Applebaum Hair Salon

The main entrance to Applebaum Hair Salon . . . Welcome!








(It changes periodically, but you are always welcomed.)

Applebaum Salon is a four styling station hair salon with two cultured marbled shampoo bowls as well as ceramic tile backbar. Stations are back to back. The salon is located in Lake Norman, north of metro Charlotte, NC.

The salon offers two waiting areas with over 20 magazine titles to choose from. The salon music is diverse and light. Artists range from Carrie Underwood to Coldplay to Michael Jackson to CeeLo Green. Also, the current clientele is upbeat and positive. No street talk; but we can not resist a little celebrity gossip news. LOL!

It also has two retail stations. One for products. One for products and tools.

We carry Bee Mine products, Pureology, KeraCare, and Design Essentials for retail sale as well as other popular sellers. The salon is near the medical offices in the Rosedale Shopping Center.

The second waiting area also offers a microwave and a refrigerator full of cold drinks. There is no charge for our drinks.
This is a booth rental salon. If you have your own clientele in the metro Charlotte area, then consider scheduling a tour at Applebaum Hair Salon!