When did you know you wanted to do hair?

I always knew I would do something "creative" when I grew up, but I had no idea it would be hair. After scouting out a cosmetology school, I quickly realized this was for me. I loved to "play" with hair and experiment with color. I went to shows and soaked up everything I could. Years later, I am still going to shows and classes. The rest is history...

How long have you been doing color?

I became a "true colorist" about 16 years ago. It was 2 years into my career that I really got the science and art behind doing great color. The best way to learn is hands on. I had a fantastic mentor in my salon that helped me truly comprehend the formula to creating great color.

How would you describe your approach to doing hair color?

It varies depending on my client. I love to add a little bit of this or that each time I do hair color. I get inspired by what's new, the change of seasons and my clients lifestyle. When I know my client has lost weight or is going on a vacation, I love to reward them with a pop of color to encourage their success or adventures.

What inspires your creativity?

Everything around me. I love to check out celebrity styles in magazines, music artists, hair shows, other stylists work. New products and classes are always a big inspiration I use to reinvent my approach or ideas to hair.

What advice would you give someone considering coloring their hair for the first time?

I always tell them to find a picture for inspiration. A hairstyle that they see themselves in and then we consult on their skin tone, hair texture, lifestyle, etc. Anything is possible. It just needs to be tailored to complement the client.

Do you customize a hair color service for each and every client?

Absolutely! I love to enhance my client's color every time they come in to the salon. By doing a glaze or adding a few highlights or lowlights with their regular formula helps rejuvenate their look and their attitude about their hair and appearance.

What celebrity always has great hair?

Definitely Jennifer Lopez. She knows how to wear her long locks so many ways. Also, Jennifer Anniston. Her hair seems to look great anytime. I love her relaxed yet stylish look that appeals to many clients that want celebrity hair, but not all the fuss. Let's not forget about the male celebrity too. Hugh Jackman and Bradley Cooper win my vote on having great hair! Who doesn't want to run their hands through that dark, wavy hair.

What's your approach to returning haircolor clients?

I never skip the most important key to keeping my client's looking great...Consultation, consultation, consultation! Having a client back in my chair is such a rewarding feeling. I appreciate their trust in me so I always like to talk with them and find out how they liked their color. I look to see if the color shade stayed true or if they might benefit from a glaze or more hightlights, etc. Color is always a great way to make a client feel younger or edgier or better about themselves so as a colorist, I feel it is my job to do just that.

Describe your personal style:

I would say "Eclectic" is my style. I like everything! Mixing old with new and modern with classic.