Dear friends,
Thank you for visiting my personal Blog. This blog might be interrupted for a few days due to my itchy hands. I am trying to upgrade and "move" my site; or rather gonna mess up my site and do some upgrades. Hopefully i can be successful as i am trying to figure out all those web tech stuff all by myself. Please have patience with me and continue to log in to check out my site. This site name www.thomasfoo.com will not be change . To continue viewing this blog, pls log in to www.thomasfoohair.blogspot.com
Thank you.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Workshop on 27-28 June 2011
Trend Workshop in Surabaya on 27-28 June 2011. Two days full of fun, hardwork and inspirations. Our workshop are designed to motivate hairdressers through using the fundamental techniques of hair cutting. One-length, graduations and layers were the key techniques in all hair cuts. Basically, no razors or thinning scissors were used in our workshop and our aim is to create precision through our fundamental.
All participants hardwork were paid off by executing the perfect cutting and coloring techniques. Great job and well done.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Joico Trend Workshop on 13-14 June, Surabaya
JOICO Trend workshop during 13-14 June in Surabaya. We got participants from Surabaya, Makasar Jember and Malang. 2 full days of hands-on Cut and Color workshop and what more can I say; all the participants has achieved the requirements with extraordinary results. Job well done, guys.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
My Story..... Part 9 (Last)
 | |
| The Champion always stand in front of the 1st Runner-up, so I stand behind. :p |
Up on the stage, I was kneeling down busy setting up my kit bag and when I stood up; I took a glance at the main entrance. There, standing right next to the main entrance, someone I never expected to see. It was my father. It was a real shock to me as I didn't expect to see him at the competition venue. He just stand there and without any expressions on his face. All I did was to give him a smile. I reckon that anyone would feel motivated when they have any family members supporting them during a competition. However, I didn't have this kind of feeling in me. I guess it might be due to the reason of both my father and me have not spoken to each other since I joined hairdressing.
Just about this time, the MC announced the start of the competition. When I was preparing to start my haircut, I looked towards the door and I saw my father walking away. He did not stay and watched the competition. There's a sting of sadness in my heart but I knew that I must do my best in order for him to change his opinion on my career.
The music started pounding louder and louder with spotlights flashing around. The adrenaline was awesome. It might be due to the exposure of the last competition that I was feeling totally at ease with no more jelly legs and trembling hands in the Grand Finals. As the time ticking away, I stopped for a while and started to looking around at the rest of the contestants. Oh my God, they all seems so focused at their haircuts and I noticed a few of them were creating outstanding hair.
I was enjoying myself so much in the Grand Finals that I was smiling at anyone that my eyes laid on. Time passed quickly and I finished my haircut within the time frame. As usual, the MC announced that the time was up and we were told to stop our haircut and to leave the stage. The judges did the usual thing and within 20 minutes, we went back up on stage again for our blow-dry segment.
During this Grand Finals, everything seems to go on smoothly and fast. It might be due being more composed and relaxed. We waited for about 45 minutes before we were called back on stage. 10 of us, the finalists for the Man's Cut and Blow-Dry category. I was so nervous as well as excited. I was happy to be in the Grand Finals and at that moment, winning anything did not come into my mind. Over the P.A system, the MC announced: " Dear Contestants, congratulations for being in the Grand Finals. I will announced the names of the 7 contestants who will receive the Finalist award; that's means the remaining 3 contestants standing on stage will be the top 3 winners. "
The sound of drums rolling hit the air................ every one were so excited and there were so much cheering and whistling. In fact, I told myself; it's good enough for me to have come this far in this competition. Each time when the MC announced a contestant name, I am always prepared to be called out but each time it wasn't me. The first 6 names were already called out and both me and my senior were still on the stage. I looked over to my mentor and he flashed a victory sign to us. He knew that our salon will at least win a top 3 award. Over the air, the MC said:" The Last Finalist Award goes to ..(drums rolling)........... Win Cut House................(Drums rolling).............Contestant No........(during this moment, I am prepared and ready to step forward to receive my Finalist Award) Drums continue rolling ........No.2..... Mr Sunny! HUH???????????? It's wasn't me, it's wasn't my name being announced. My senior turned to me and gave me a surprised and unbelief look. He turned away from me , shaking his head and walked forward to collect his Award.
The MC proceed to announced:" and for the 2nd Runner-Up Winner for the Man's Cut and Blow-Dry category goes to.......(drums rolling) .......contestant No..... (Drums rolling).(I am prepared and ready to step forward to receive my award)......... No. 9 ...Mr Daniel Kok from XXXX Salon.. HUH??????? it's wasn't me again?
This time, I saw both my mentor and his brother were throwing punches into the air. They kept flashing victory signs to me and cheering me.
"And now, we have 2 Contestants for the Man's Cut and Blow-Dry category left on stage. Who will be the Winner for this event?" said the MC. There were so much shouting of our names from the crowd. The feeling was beyond description; now I knew how contestants for Miss Universe feel when they were waiting for the winning results.
The MC announced: " And now!..... I will announce the name for the 1st Runner-up of the Man's Cut and Blow-Dry category........(drums rolling)....is.....(Drums rolling)....... [something funny happened in my mind.... during this moment; I was telling to myself.... please don't call my name... I want to be the Champion] Contestant No. 3...... Mr Thomas Foo from Win Cut House. There were loud cheering and I happily walked out to receive my Award despite wanting to be the Champion. The Winner for year 1991 Scissors Award; Man's Cut and Blow-Dry Champion is Mr Andy from Top Cut salon. We took some photos on stage and went on to received interviews from reporters.
All the contestants had gathered together with the judges to receive comments and feedback and I found out that I was penalized for pre-cut as my model's hair was not long enough. I was deducted 5 points from my score and one of the judges told me that such penalty is unwanted and it's a shame to lose out in this way for the Champion position. Nevertheless, I am still happy with the result and it was all luck that got me through so far in this competition.
The next morning, my parents were happy to see my Awards and my father finally talked to me. He told me that he will try his best to support my career and he's proud that I got myself a 1st Runner-up position. However when I told him that I lost due to the penalized points, he gave me a eye piercing look. :p ... I didn't stay in my mentor's salon for a long time after the competition. My seniors made my life there even harder after I won the award and I could not take the verbal abuse anymore and I chose to leave the salon; and from there, I started my adventures on my chosen career.
To all budding hairdressers out there, do not give up easily. The road may be tough, it takes a little bit of luck, good guidance and lots of hard work to succeed; I am sure every one can achieve their dream regardless of any obstacles. Most importantly, is to find yourself the right hair academy or a good mentor
Thank you all for reading my story. I will end it here in Part 9 as I do not want to bore you all any further with my story..:p
Please stay tune to my Blog as I will continue to post articles or any events. Thank you for your support...CHEERS!
Monday, June 13, 2011
Ammonia Free colors? Think about it! ( in Bahasa Indonesia)
Saat ini, banyak yang sedang membicarakan tentang pewarna rambut yang “amonia free” . Jadi apakah arti sebenarnya dari : untuk penggunaan pewarna rambut “amonia free” tetap harus dicampur dengan Hydrogen peroxide . Apakah ini tidak terdengar aneh ?
Saat ini, banyak yang sedang membicarakan tentang pewarna rambut yang “amonia free” . Jadi apakah arti sebenarnya dari : untuk penggunaan pewarna rambut “amonia free” tetap harus dicampur dengan Hydrogen peroxide . Apakah ini tidak terdengar aneh ? Seperti yang kita ketahui , terdapat banyak industry pewarna rambut kami yang “ammonia free” dengan “acidic in pH” yang tidak perlu dicampur dengan hydrogen peroxide atau activator. Sesungguhnya pewarna rambut jenis “amonia free” ini bagus jika dapat digunakan secara langsung dari kemasan . Tanpa ammonia, pewarna rambut tidak dapat mengangkat atau merubah warna asli rambut manusia .Pewarna rambut jenis ini digunakan untuk depositing warna pigmen rambut dan sifatnya tidak bertahan lama pada rambut. Warna pigmen rambut akan berkurang setiap kali kita mencuci rambut .
Mari kita kembali ke topik awal yaitu tentang pewarna rambut “amonia free”. Pewarna rambut “amonia free” yang membutuhkan hydrogen peroxide untuk oxidize adalah mengandung ethanolamine atau dapat disebut juga dengan 2-aminoethanol atau monoethanolamine ( atau disingkat dengan ETA or MEA ) . Ethanolamine juga biasa disebut dengan monoethanolamine or MEA. [ Ethanolamine atau Monoetaholamine tidak berwarna dan berbentuk cairan seperti air , hygroscopic liquid dengan bau ammonia yang sangat lembut . Sebuah Zat kimia yang digunakan untuk pembuatan kosmetik, surface – active agent, emulsifier, pharmaceuticals, dan plasticizing agents ; a gas –scrubbing agent untuk penyerapan dan menghilangkan H2S dan CO2 dari refinery dan natural gas streams ; carbon dioxide dan pembuatan ammonia ]
MEA hampir tidak berbau dan tidak mengeluarkan bau yang menusuk hidung seperti ammonia. Pada saat kita menuangkan pewarna rambut yang mengandung ammonia ke dalam mangkuk dan dicampur dengan hydrogen peroxide , emulsion mulai oxidize dan ammonia mulai menguap sehingga mengeluarkan bau yang sangat tajam dan menyengat . MEA tidak memberikan efek bau yang menyengat pada saat dicampur dengan hydrogen peroxide dan inilah yang membuat customer dan para hairdresser berpikir bahwa pewarna rambut yang mengandung ammonia lebih agresif daripada pewarna rambut yang mengandung MEA. Pada pewarna rambut yang biasa digunakan mengandung 1-4% ammonia dan pewarna rambut dengan jenis “ammonia free” mengandung hampir 12% MEA. MEA adalah zat yang lebih agresif pada rambut daripada ammonia dan biasanya pewarna rambut yang mengandung MEA mempunyai efek kusam pada saat warna rambut mulai luntur.
Pada kenyataannya , beberapa produk jenis pewarna rambut yang menggunakan zat ammonium hydroxide dan mereka berusaha untuk membohongi para hairdresser dan para pengguna dengan mengatakan bahwa pewarna rambut tersebut “ammonia free”. Jadi permasalahnnya adalah either kita menggunakan pewarna rambut ammonia free yang tidak memerlukan developing agent atau lebih baik kita tetap menggunakan pewarna rambut yang biasa yang mengandung ammonia rendah. Dan pada kenyataannya masih ada beberapa jenis pewarna rambut yang menggunakan ammonia serendah 1-3% pada produk mereka.
Apa yang saya coba untuk jelaskan adalah : sebagai professional hairdresser itu merupakan tugas kita untuk mendidik diri kita dan memberikan saran dengan jujur dan tulus kepada client kita terhadap product yang dibutuhkan untuk rambutnya. Jangan diperdaya oleh perusahaan besar yang mencoba untuk membutakan keprofesionalan kita dengan trik marketing yang digunakan oleh mereka .Kita adalah profesional dan kita tidak dapat berpura-pura tidak tahu . Berhenti mendukung perusahaan-perusahaan yang membodohi kita para hairdresser.
Check out this link for more on "ammonia free" colors.. https://lorealinoa.wordpress.com
Saat ini, banyak yang sedang membicarakan tentang pewarna rambut yang “amonia free” . Jadi apakah arti sebenarnya dari : untuk penggunaan pewarna rambut “amonia free” tetap harus dicampur dengan Hydrogen peroxide . Apakah ini tidak terdengar aneh ? Seperti yang kita ketahui , terdapat banyak industry pewarna rambut kami yang “ammonia free” dengan “acidic in pH” yang tidak perlu dicampur dengan hydrogen peroxide atau activator. Sesungguhnya pewarna rambut jenis “amonia free” ini bagus jika dapat digunakan secara langsung dari kemasan . Tanpa ammonia, pewarna rambut tidak dapat mengangkat atau merubah warna asli rambut manusia .Pewarna rambut jenis ini digunakan untuk depositing warna pigmen rambut dan sifatnya tidak bertahan lama pada rambut. Warna pigmen rambut akan berkurang setiap kali kita mencuci rambut .
Mari kita kembali ke topik awal yaitu tentang pewarna rambut “amonia free”. Pewarna rambut “amonia free” yang membutuhkan hydrogen peroxide untuk oxidize adalah mengandung ethanolamine atau dapat disebut juga dengan 2-aminoethanol atau monoethanolamine ( atau disingkat dengan ETA or MEA ) . Ethanolamine juga biasa disebut dengan monoethanolamine or MEA. [ Ethanolamine atau Monoetaholamine tidak berwarna dan berbentuk cairan seperti air , hygroscopic liquid dengan bau ammonia yang sangat lembut . Sebuah Zat kimia yang digunakan untuk pembuatan kosmetik, surface – active agent, emulsifier, pharmaceuticals, dan plasticizing agents ; a gas –scrubbing agent untuk penyerapan dan menghilangkan H2S dan CO2 dari refinery dan natural gas streams ; carbon dioxide dan pembuatan ammonia ]
MEA hampir tidak berbau dan tidak mengeluarkan bau yang menusuk hidung seperti ammonia. Pada saat kita menuangkan pewarna rambut yang mengandung ammonia ke dalam mangkuk dan dicampur dengan hydrogen peroxide , emulsion mulai oxidize dan ammonia mulai menguap sehingga mengeluarkan bau yang sangat tajam dan menyengat . MEA tidak memberikan efek bau yang menyengat pada saat dicampur dengan hydrogen peroxide dan inilah yang membuat customer dan para hairdresser berpikir bahwa pewarna rambut yang mengandung ammonia lebih agresif daripada pewarna rambut yang mengandung MEA. Pada pewarna rambut yang biasa digunakan mengandung 1-4% ammonia dan pewarna rambut dengan jenis “ammonia free” mengandung hampir 12% MEA. MEA adalah zat yang lebih agresif pada rambut daripada ammonia dan biasanya pewarna rambut yang mengandung MEA mempunyai efek kusam pada saat warna rambut mulai luntur.
Pada kenyataannya , beberapa produk jenis pewarna rambut yang menggunakan zat ammonium hydroxide dan mereka berusaha untuk membohongi para hairdresser dan para pengguna dengan mengatakan bahwa pewarna rambut tersebut “ammonia free”. Jadi permasalahnnya adalah either kita menggunakan pewarna rambut ammonia free yang tidak memerlukan developing agent atau lebih baik kita tetap menggunakan pewarna rambut yang biasa yang mengandung ammonia rendah. Dan pada kenyataannya masih ada beberapa jenis pewarna rambut yang menggunakan ammonia serendah 1-3% pada produk mereka.
Apa yang saya coba untuk jelaskan adalah : sebagai professional hairdresser itu merupakan tugas kita untuk mendidik diri kita dan memberikan saran dengan jujur dan tulus kepada client kita terhadap product yang dibutuhkan untuk rambutnya. Jangan diperdaya oleh perusahaan besar yang mencoba untuk membutakan keprofesionalan kita dengan trik marketing yang digunakan oleh mereka .Kita adalah profesional dan kita tidak dapat berpura-pura tidak tahu . Berhenti mendukung perusahaan-perusahaan yang membodohi kita para hairdresser.
Check out this link for more on "ammonia free" colors.. https://lorealinoa.wordpress.com
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Ammonia-Free Colors? Think about it first!
(Will try to get this posted in Bahasa Indonesia soon)
Currently, there are a lot of hype and hoo-haa on ammonia-free permanent colors in the market now. So, what really is it all about of the so called; "Ammonia-Free" colors that still require to be mixed with Hydrogen peroxide in order to work? Doesn't it sounds suspicious? Ask yourself this simple question on why does ammonia free colors need hydrogen peroxide?
As we know, there are a lot of Ammonia-free colors in our industry that are acidic in pH and does not require to be mixed with any hydrogen peroxide or activator. In fact, these kind of ammonia-free colors are so convenient that it can be used directly out from the tube. Without ammonia in them, these colors cannot lift or change our natural melanin in human hair. These colors are meant for direct colors pigments depositing only, thus these range of colors do not stay long on the hair. The direct color pigments will be washed out excessively every time when the hair is being shampoo.
Let's get back to the so called "ammonia-free" colors. These so called "ammonia-free" colors that requires hydrogen peroxide to oxidize; contains Ethanolamine, also called 2-aminoethanol or monoethanolamine (often abbreviated as ETA or MEA).Ethanolamine is commonly called monoethanolamine or MEA. [Ethanolamine or Monoethanolamine is a clear, water-white, hygroscopic liquid with a mild ammoniacal odor. A chemical intermediate in the manufacture of cosmetics, surface-active agents, emulsifiers, pharmaceuticals, and plasticizing agents; a gas-scrubbing agent for the absorption and removal of H2S and CO2 from refinery and natural gas streams; carbon dioxide and ammonia manufacturing.]
MEA is almost odorless and does not produce a pungent smell as strong as an ammonia. When a color cream that contains ammonia is being squeezed out into a color bowl and mixed with a hydrogen peroxide, the emulsion starts to oxidize and ammonia is released and starts to vaporize, thus releasing the pungent smell that is choking. MEA does not have this effect of pungent smell when mixed with hydrogen peroxide and this led to end-users or even hairdressers to think that the colors that contains ammonia are more aggressive to the hair than colors that contains MEA. Traditional colors contains about 1-4%of ammonia, while so called "ammonia-free" colors contains almost 12% of MEA. MEA is more agressive on the hair than ammonia and usually color lines that uses MEA have the effect of the hair color "brown-out" after the colors fade.
In fact, some products uses Ammonium Hydroxide in their color line and try to pass off as ammonia free to hairdressers and end users. As a matter of fact, either we uses real ammonia free colors that does not need a developing agent or it's still better to stick to our traditional color that contains low ammonia. There are some color line that use as low as 1-3% of ammonia in their colors.
Currently, there are a lot of hype and hoo-haa on ammonia-free permanent colors in the market now. So, what really is it all about of the so called; "Ammonia-Free" colors that still require to be mixed with Hydrogen peroxide in order to work? Doesn't it sounds suspicious? Ask yourself this simple question on why does ammonia free colors need hydrogen peroxide?
As we know, there are a lot of Ammonia-free colors in our industry that are acidic in pH and does not require to be mixed with any hydrogen peroxide or activator. In fact, these kind of ammonia-free colors are so convenient that it can be used directly out from the tube. Without ammonia in them, these colors cannot lift or change our natural melanin in human hair. These colors are meant for direct colors pigments depositing only, thus these range of colors do not stay long on the hair. The direct color pigments will be washed out excessively every time when the hair is being shampoo.
Let's get back to the so called "ammonia-free" colors. These so called "ammonia-free" colors that requires hydrogen peroxide to oxidize; contains Ethanolamine, also called 2-aminoethanol or monoethanolamine (often abbreviated as ETA or MEA).Ethanolamine is commonly called monoethanolamine or MEA. [Ethanolamine or Monoethanolamine is a clear, water-white, hygroscopic liquid with a mild ammoniacal odor. A chemical intermediate in the manufacture of cosmetics, surface-active agents, emulsifiers, pharmaceuticals, and plasticizing agents; a gas-scrubbing agent for the absorption and removal of H2S and CO2 from refinery and natural gas streams; carbon dioxide and ammonia manufacturing.]
MEA is almost odorless and does not produce a pungent smell as strong as an ammonia. When a color cream that contains ammonia is being squeezed out into a color bowl and mixed with a hydrogen peroxide, the emulsion starts to oxidize and ammonia is released and starts to vaporize, thus releasing the pungent smell that is choking. MEA does not have this effect of pungent smell when mixed with hydrogen peroxide and this led to end-users or even hairdressers to think that the colors that contains ammonia are more aggressive to the hair than colors that contains MEA. Traditional colors contains about 1-4%of ammonia, while so called "ammonia-free" colors contains almost 12% of MEA. MEA is more agressive on the hair than ammonia and usually color lines that uses MEA have the effect of the hair color "brown-out" after the colors fade.
In fact, some products uses Ammonium Hydroxide in their color line and try to pass off as ammonia free to hairdressers and end users. As a matter of fact, either we uses real ammonia free colors that does not need a developing agent or it's still better to stick to our traditional color that contains low ammonia. There are some color line that use as low as 1-3% of ammonia in their colors.
What I am trying to express is; As a professional hairdresser, it is our duty to educate ourselves and to truthfully advise our clients on their hairdressing needs. Do not be mislead by those big products company who try to blind our professionalism through some form of marketing works. We are professionals and we cannot afford to be ignorant. Stop supporting those product companies that lies to us; hairdressers.
Check out this link for more on "ammonia free" colors.. https://lorealinoa.wordpress.com
Check out this link for more on "ammonia free" colors.. https://lorealinoa.wordpress.com
Friday, June 10, 2011
Lamaran Anda?
(This post is in Bahasa Indonesia)
Pernahkah anda bertanya mengapa lamaran anda untuk posisi hairdressing selalu ditolak ? Meskipun anda sudah melampirkan surat pengalaman dan semua penghargaan yang sudah anda dapatkan dari menghadiri kursus .Atau meskipun anda sudah mendapatkan pekerjaan tersebut tapi tidak mendapatkan gaji seperti yang and harapkan?
Itu pasti menjadi pertanyaan yang membingungkan untuk anda bukan ? Ya pasti !
Pengalaman kerja merupakan sesuatu yang penting untuk wawancara kerja, tetapi yang terpenting adalah riwayat hidup anda . Apa yang diinginkan oleh seorang pewawancara adalah kepribadian anda. Semua penghargaan adalah untuk menunjukkan dedikasi anda dalam meningkatkan ketrampilan . Anda dapat membayar dan mengikuti kursus sebanyak yang anda bisa tetapi semua itu tidak dapat membuktikan seberapa baiknya anda selama wawancara kerja . Yang dibutuhkan bagaimana anda menunjukkan seberapa baik kepribadian anda .
Tunjukkan ketrampilan anda dengan membuat portfolio kerja anda . Mengumpulkan portfolio merupakan hal yang lebih penting dari semua penghargaan yang telah anda miliki. Anda dapat melakukan dengan cara :
A. Miliki camera digital (tidak perlu harus camera yang mahal ,tetapi bila anda mampu mengapa tidak) dan mulailah untuk memotret semua kreasi yang telah anda lakukan .
B. Cetakkan hasil karya anda pada kertas foto yang berkualitas dan simpan di dalam map ( warna cover berwarna hitam ) atau simpan di laptop. Bawalah serta hasil kreasi anda pada saat anda melakukan wawancara kerja , semua hasil karya anda akan menjadi topik pembicaraan selama melakukan wawancara kerja .
Penampilan pada saat wawancara kerja :
1. Rambut
.. Warnai rambut anda
.. Tata rambut anda dengan baik
2. wajah
. Untuk wanita , aplikasikan riasan yang sederhana . Hindari melakukan wawancara kerja dengan wajah yang terlihat pucat .
. Untuk pria , pastikan wajah anda terlihat bersih . Bersihkan minyak dan keringat pada wajah anda sebelum melakukan wawancara kerja .
3 Pakaian
. Pakailah pakaian berwarna hitam
. Anda tidak perlu memakai pakaian yang mewah untuk sebuah wawancara kerja . Anda bukan melakukan peragaan busana. Cukup dengan memakai Kaos hitam yang sederhana , kemeja warna hitam , celana panjang berwarna hitam , rok atau celana jeans.
. Hindari memakai celana pendek
4. Sepatu
. Memakai sepatu berwarna hitam
. Hindari memakai sandal
5. Peralatan
. Selalu ingat untuk membawa serta peralatan anda . Anda tidak akan pernah tahu kapan saat anda akan diminta untuk melakukan demo .
Wish you success!
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
My Story..... Part 8
Time ticking very slowly and without knowingly, the MC announced for all contestants for the Man's Cut and Blow Dry category to come on stage. The results for the Top 10 finalists will be announced soon. The whole room was filled with anxiety and excitement. I believed every contestant at this moment were so nervous and hoping that they are able to get into Grand Finals.
One by one, the MC called out each of the name of the contestants who made it to the Grand Finals. One of my Seniors name was called out and he had made it to the Grand Finals. We were so happy for him and we cheered so loudly that I thought; we looked like a bunch of monkeys jumping wildly around the room. As the number of finalists increased, the situation started to get tensed. The MC called out: " The 8th finalist goes to contestant no. 11, Mr Thomas Foo from Win Cut House. I was completely stunned and all I did was just to stare at my mentor. At this time, my model reacted faster than me; he pulled me along and both of us walked towards the front of the stage. All the audience were cheering and whistling very loudly, this feeling is indescribable. Still, I can't believe I had made it to the Grand Finals.
All 10 Finalists were called out and we were all standing on top of the stage with our models and Letter of Invitation to the Grand Finals. The first thing I did when I got off stage was to run to the public phone and called home to break the news to my mother. She sounded so happy on the other end of the call and she kept giving thanks to God.
I hung up the phone and walked towards my mentor and my seniors. All my seniors failed to qualified for the Grand Finals in the other categories except for that one senior who qualified for the Man's category together with me. My mentor told us that the Grand Finals will be 1 month away and need to start searching for new models and creations. Sad to say, the rest of my seniors didn't even congratulate me on my qualifying but instead they kept telling me that I was super lucky and I got a model with a good and nice hair texture and hairline. I happily acknowledged all that and I totally agreed with them.
The next day, everything was back to usual. There was no hype about the oncoming Grand Finals and I'm back to my usual salon cleaning chores. In fact, I didn't really went to search for a new model, as I reckon that my model's hair will out grow very fast in a month time. I decided to take the risk and I told my model to shampoo his hair twice or thrice a day; hoping that his hair will grow faster. ( is that a myth or what?) :)
Time passed very fast, in a twitch of the eye; the Grand Finals is here. On the day of the hair competition, I felt confident and in fact; the only thing that I worry about is that my model's hair might not grow long enough for the competition. I'm sure that I do not want to get some points deducted as a pre-cut model. The rest of my seniors did not attend the Grand Finals and only my mentor and his brother came along to support both me and my the other Finalist senior. The atmosphere of the Grand Finals was totally different from the Qualifying Rounds. There were a lot more audience in the Grand Finals as it was held in the Grand Ballroom of the hotel. The Grand Ballroom was decorated like a grand wedding and 8 course dinner were served.
The procedures were the same and I waited patiently for my turn. However, the good thing about this time is; I didn't get "jelly-legs". After the Ladies' category, the MC announced for the Man's Cut and Blow-dry Finalists to get ready. As usual, our names were called out one by one to go up stage. When my name was called out, I walked towards the stage with confidence and no trembling of legs at all.
Up on the stage, I was kneeling down busy setting up my kit bag and when I stood up; I took a glance at the main entrance. There, standing right next to the main entrance; someone I never expected to see........
One by one, the MC called out each of the name of the contestants who made it to the Grand Finals. One of my Seniors name was called out and he had made it to the Grand Finals. We were so happy for him and we cheered so loudly that I thought; we looked like a bunch of monkeys jumping wildly around the room. As the number of finalists increased, the situation started to get tensed. The MC called out: " The 8th finalist goes to contestant no. 11, Mr Thomas Foo from Win Cut House. I was completely stunned and all I did was just to stare at my mentor. At this time, my model reacted faster than me; he pulled me along and both of us walked towards the front of the stage. All the audience were cheering and whistling very loudly, this feeling is indescribable. Still, I can't believe I had made it to the Grand Finals.
All 10 Finalists were called out and we were all standing on top of the stage with our models and Letter of Invitation to the Grand Finals. The first thing I did when I got off stage was to run to the public phone and called home to break the news to my mother. She sounded so happy on the other end of the call and she kept giving thanks to God.
I hung up the phone and walked towards my mentor and my seniors. All my seniors failed to qualified for the Grand Finals in the other categories except for that one senior who qualified for the Man's category together with me. My mentor told us that the Grand Finals will be 1 month away and need to start searching for new models and creations. Sad to say, the rest of my seniors didn't even congratulate me on my qualifying but instead they kept telling me that I was super lucky and I got a model with a good and nice hair texture and hairline. I happily acknowledged all that and I totally agreed with them.
The next day, everything was back to usual. There was no hype about the oncoming Grand Finals and I'm back to my usual salon cleaning chores. In fact, I didn't really went to search for a new model, as I reckon that my model's hair will out grow very fast in a month time. I decided to take the risk and I told my model to shampoo his hair twice or thrice a day; hoping that his hair will grow faster. ( is that a myth or what?) :)
Time passed very fast, in a twitch of the eye; the Grand Finals is here. On the day of the hair competition, I felt confident and in fact; the only thing that I worry about is that my model's hair might not grow long enough for the competition. I'm sure that I do not want to get some points deducted as a pre-cut model. The rest of my seniors did not attend the Grand Finals and only my mentor and his brother came along to support both me and my the other Finalist senior. The atmosphere of the Grand Finals was totally different from the Qualifying Rounds. There were a lot more audience in the Grand Finals as it was held in the Grand Ballroom of the hotel. The Grand Ballroom was decorated like a grand wedding and 8 course dinner were served.
The procedures were the same and I waited patiently for my turn. However, the good thing about this time is; I didn't get "jelly-legs". After the Ladies' category, the MC announced for the Man's Cut and Blow-dry Finalists to get ready. As usual, our names were called out one by one to go up stage. When my name was called out, I walked towards the stage with confidence and no trembling of legs at all.
Up on the stage, I was kneeling down busy setting up my kit bag and when I stood up; I took a glance at the main entrance. There, standing right next to the main entrance; someone I never expected to see........
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
My Story..... Part 7
The MC announced that we had 10 minutes left for our hair cut and at this point of time, I had only completed about 50% of my hair cut. Pressure started to step in and I tried to increase my speed of cutting. That was when the worst fear of mine which I thought of everyday prior to the competition happened...........
I gave out a loud :"OUCH!" I had cut my finger! It was a very deep cut and my blood keep oozing out. It was a disaster and the pain was quite unbearable. In fact, before the start of the competition, I had passed my model some plasters and I told him to keep it just in case I cut my finger. I guess my prediction came true. I told my model what had happened and he offered to put a plaster for my cut; however I thought it doesn't looks good if I stop my cutting and get my finger plastered. I decided to continue my haircut without the plaster and all I could do is to keep wiping my bloodied finger on my model's hair. :p
Finally, I finished my hair cut with three minutes to spare and I was pretty satisfied with the result of the haircut I created. Soon enough, the MC announced:" Contestants, your time is up! Stop all your cutting and please leave the platform." That was when the judges came onto the platform again and did the final examination on our hair cut. It took the judges about 20 minutes and it gave me the time to wash up my bloodied finger and get it nicely plastered. In fact, I no longer felt nervous or trembling; in fact I felt so relaxed and for once, I really felt professional. I felt like a celebrity hairdresser whenever I walked past or mingle with the audience.
I met my mentor at my holding area and he told me: " Tom, you did very good. That was a great haircut and I am sure you will get into the finals". I felt happy to hear from my mentor saying those encouraging words, but deep in my heart; I told myself not to daydream, I will not win. Now it's time to get back on stage to complete our blow dry and style for our creation. We were given 15 minutes to complete that segment and it was a breeze. We were judge again for the the complete look for our creation. Our group segment was over and we watched the last group of contestants fighting out on the stage. The judges need to pick 10 contestants out of 60 contestants for the Competition Finals 30 days later.
I went to join my group of seniors for a drink and smoke and they all seems so confident and full of smiles. One of my senior (Albert) asked me: " So, Thomas; how's your competition?"
I replied: " Ya, so-so, nothing impressive; but it's kinda good experience and exposure for me."
Albert replied: "It's okay, you are just a shampoo boy and cleaner; you should be thankful that you were able to compete here." But anyway, don't forget to come early and clean the salon tomorrow morning." after saying this, my group of seniors and their friends started to laugh.
I just walked away with my drink and cigarette and headed to a quieter corner of the ballroom. I hate this kind of feeling, I may be just a junior or cleaner in the salon, but I guess all human beings have their pride and ego. However, being looked down by my peers and friends, does really motivated myself to go all out and accomplish what I should learn or do. It really felt like ages sitting there alone waiting for the next group of contestants to finish. Time ticking very slowly and without knowingly, the MC announced for all contestants for the Man's Cut and Blow Dry category to come on stage. The results for the Top 10 finalists will be announced soon...........
I gave out a loud :"OUCH!" I had cut my finger! It was a very deep cut and my blood keep oozing out. It was a disaster and the pain was quite unbearable. In fact, before the start of the competition, I had passed my model some plasters and I told him to keep it just in case I cut my finger. I guess my prediction came true. I told my model what had happened and he offered to put a plaster for my cut; however I thought it doesn't looks good if I stop my cutting and get my finger plastered. I decided to continue my haircut without the plaster and all I could do is to keep wiping my bloodied finger on my model's hair. :p
Finally, I finished my hair cut with three minutes to spare and I was pretty satisfied with the result of the haircut I created. Soon enough, the MC announced:" Contestants, your time is up! Stop all your cutting and please leave the platform." That was when the judges came onto the platform again and did the final examination on our hair cut. It took the judges about 20 minutes and it gave me the time to wash up my bloodied finger and get it nicely plastered. In fact, I no longer felt nervous or trembling; in fact I felt so relaxed and for once, I really felt professional. I felt like a celebrity hairdresser whenever I walked past or mingle with the audience.
I met my mentor at my holding area and he told me: " Tom, you did very good. That was a great haircut and I am sure you will get into the finals". I felt happy to hear from my mentor saying those encouraging words, but deep in my heart; I told myself not to daydream, I will not win. Now it's time to get back on stage to complete our blow dry and style for our creation. We were given 15 minutes to complete that segment and it was a breeze. We were judge again for the the complete look for our creation. Our group segment was over and we watched the last group of contestants fighting out on the stage. The judges need to pick 10 contestants out of 60 contestants for the Competition Finals 30 days later.
I went to join my group of seniors for a drink and smoke and they all seems so confident and full of smiles. One of my senior (Albert) asked me: " So, Thomas; how's your competition?"
I replied: " Ya, so-so, nothing impressive; but it's kinda good experience and exposure for me."
Albert replied: "It's okay, you are just a shampoo boy and cleaner; you should be thankful that you were able to compete here." But anyway, don't forget to come early and clean the salon tomorrow morning." after saying this, my group of seniors and their friends started to laugh.
I just walked away with my drink and cigarette and headed to a quieter corner of the ballroom. I hate this kind of feeling, I may be just a junior or cleaner in the salon, but I guess all human beings have their pride and ego. However, being looked down by my peers and friends, does really motivated myself to go all out and accomplish what I should learn or do. It really felt like ages sitting there alone waiting for the next group of contestants to finish. Time ticking very slowly and without knowingly, the MC announced for all contestants for the Man's Cut and Blow Dry category to come on stage. The results for the Top 10 finalists will be announced soon...........
Saturday, May 28, 2011
My Story..... Part 6
(I apologized for the delayed posting of my story, as I was pretty tied up with work lately and for the coming month as well. Please have patience with me and I will try to do my best to keep my post updated)
Over the air, the MC announced: " Contestants, you have 20 minutes to complete your haircuts and your time begins NOW...........!when i heard that, my hands and legs are all shaking and trembling and I not sure if the audiences had noticed that or not. I began to lock my knees as I cant bend then because whenever I bend them, they start to tremble. So I reckon I looked kinda weird standing and cutting hair in that position.
I remembered what my mentor told me and I tried to take a peek at the audiences. It was pretty scary to find that so many people were looking at you. I gave out a smile and to my surprise, the audiences cheered and clapped and cameras' flash started flashing away. Oh my God, that was awesome, that kind of feeling makes you feel like a superstar or some kind of celebrities. Five minutes into the cutting, the judges started to walk around the stage, accessing our hair cutting technique and creation. To be honest, I didn't quite remember the judges' names as I was nervous and breaking in cold sweat that I did not even bother to know who they are.
As they walked around me, they looked so serious. While they were looking at the way I cut, they keep mumbling to each other and pointing to the left and right side of my model. As soon as they walked away, I quickly ran in front of my model and checked my haircut but I can't seems to find anything wrong with that. So, I walked back and continue my haircut on my model. The MC announced that we had 10 minutes left for our hair cut and at this point of time, I had only completed about 50% of my hair cut. Pressure started to step in and I tried to increase my speed of cutting. That was when the worst fear of mine which I thought of everyday prior to the competition happened...........
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Trend Training 23-24 May 2011
The participants turn up for the Joico Trend workshop with great anxiety and all I can say is, they responded by doing a great job. They executed the trend training requirements very well and showed great professionalism in their work and attitude.
Keep up the great job and you guys are AWESOME!
Check out the workshop page for more pictures :)Come and join us for the Trend workshop on 13-14 and 27-28 June 2011
Friday, May 20, 2011
My Story..... Part 5
This time, my heart was pumping so fast that I almost freaked out. Suddenly someone tapped my shoulder from my back, I turned around and saw my mentor standing behind me.
He gave me a wide smile and said: "Tom, just go out there and enjoy yourself. Don't be too tense up, look at the audience and give them a smile whenever you can. To win or not is not important, what is important is you had taken your first step in your career and achieved your first goal which is to join this hair competition. I have confidence in you, just go up to the stage and show them what you got. Make yourself and your parents proud." Then he patted me on my back and walked off.
In fact, my father had not even talk to me once since the day I joined hairdressing. He was totally disappointed in me for quitting school and was furious with me for joining hairdressing. Both me and my father lived like total strangers to each other at home.
When I heard those words; "Make yourself and your parents proud", my eyes filled up with tears. I knew that it was my fault for quitting school that angered my father. I knew that my mum always cried herself to sleep at night because of what I did. I had disappointed them when they had pinned all their hopes on me to be successful both in school and in life later. All our relatives looked down on my family as we were seems as failures in academic result. Just when I looked down, I saw my pair of cutting scissors in my kit bag. I picked it up and it was one of the best gift I ever received. It was a pair of 5 inch Yasaka scissors which my mum had bought for me a month ago. She had scrimped and saved few months of her household allowance to buy me that scissors. I knew that I had to do my best in this competition. It's not just for exposure, experience or fun, it's for redemption!
Each categories of the competition. were split into 3 groups with each group about 20 contestants. I've got another senior of mine in my group and the rest of them in the other groups. Just when I was admiring my scissors, the music softens and MC announced that all contestants for the Man's Cut & Blow-Dry category to go onstage. Slowly, one by one, each contestant numbers and name were called out and then I heard; "Number 11, Thomas Foo from Win's Cut House". Suddenly my legs were trembling and shaking! My legs became jelly-like and I was trembling in cold sweat. I turned to my model and I told him:" Patrick, I can't walk! My legs are trembling!" Patrick looked at me and said: " Don't worry, can't walk? Well, we can crawl up the stage then." We both shared a little laughter. That laughter really helped a lot to loosen up the tension and there I was; up on the stage.
It was my first time on stage, with all those spot lights beaming at you and people down there cheering on. However, my cold sweat didn't stop and my legs keep trembling and shaking whenever they like. I had to stand straight with my knees locked to keep them from trembling. To make matters worse, there was a huge speaker behind me pumping away loud music.
Over the air, the MC announced: " Contestants, you have 20 minutes to complete your haircuts and your time begins NOW...........!
He gave me a wide smile and said: "Tom, just go out there and enjoy yourself. Don't be too tense up, look at the audience and give them a smile whenever you can. To win or not is not important, what is important is you had taken your first step in your career and achieved your first goal which is to join this hair competition. I have confidence in you, just go up to the stage and show them what you got. Make yourself and your parents proud." Then he patted me on my back and walked off.
In fact, my father had not even talk to me once since the day I joined hairdressing. He was totally disappointed in me for quitting school and was furious with me for joining hairdressing. Both me and my father lived like total strangers to each other at home.
When I heard those words; "Make yourself and your parents proud", my eyes filled up with tears. I knew that it was my fault for quitting school that angered my father. I knew that my mum always cried herself to sleep at night because of what I did. I had disappointed them when they had pinned all their hopes on me to be successful both in school and in life later. All our relatives looked down on my family as we were seems as failures in academic result. Just when I looked down, I saw my pair of cutting scissors in my kit bag. I picked it up and it was one of the best gift I ever received. It was a pair of 5 inch Yasaka scissors which my mum had bought for me a month ago. She had scrimped and saved few months of her household allowance to buy me that scissors. I knew that I had to do my best in this competition. It's not just for exposure, experience or fun, it's for redemption!
Each categories of the competition. were split into 3 groups with each group about 20 contestants. I've got another senior of mine in my group and the rest of them in the other groups. Just when I was admiring my scissors, the music softens and MC announced that all contestants for the Man's Cut & Blow-Dry category to go onstage. Slowly, one by one, each contestant numbers and name were called out and then I heard; "Number 11, Thomas Foo from Win's Cut House". Suddenly my legs were trembling and shaking! My legs became jelly-like and I was trembling in cold sweat. I turned to my model and I told him:" Patrick, I can't walk! My legs are trembling!" Patrick looked at me and said: " Don't worry, can't walk? Well, we can crawl up the stage then." We both shared a little laughter. That laughter really helped a lot to loosen up the tension and there I was; up on the stage.
It was my first time on stage, with all those spot lights beaming at you and people down there cheering on. However, my cold sweat didn't stop and my legs keep trembling and shaking whenever they like. I had to stand straight with my knees locked to keep them from trembling. To make matters worse, there was a huge speaker behind me pumping away loud music.
Over the air, the MC announced: " Contestants, you have 20 minutes to complete your haircuts and your time begins NOW...........!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
My Story..... Part 4
10 days had passed after I was taught on how to handle a pair of scissors. My Boss asked me to show him my "new skill" that afternoon, he just nodded his head and said: "OK".
At that very moment, didn't know what got into me and I asked him boldly: "Can I take part in the Hair Competition in a few months time?"
He looked at me with a raised eyebrow and he said: "Well, that's depend on your talent."
(Try to cut the story short)
So I trained very hard under my mentor and hoping that I could join the hair competition. Three months later, my mentor suggested to me that I should take part in the upcoming hair competition for the exposure and experience and he had enrolled my name for it. He suggested that I should take part in the Man's Cut and Blow Dry category as it's much easier. (By the way, my mentor was once the Ladies' Cut and Blow Dry Category Winner in that competition) I was overwhelmed by joy, finally I can take part in the hair competition that I wanted so much to be in.
I started to hunt for my male model and the hairstyle that I wanted to create. I practice everyday on my male haircut skills, especially on the scissors over comb technique until my fingers and wrist all gone sore. In fact, my first intention of joining the competition wasn't to win, but to gain exposure. My mentor seems pretty satisfied with my progress and told me that if I continue to cut with precision and neatness, I might win a prize in the competition. Those words were met with laughter from all my seniors.
The hair competition was just a couple of days away and with each closing day, I felt nervous and with butterflies in my stomach. It's kinda of mixed feelings, I felt I wanted out of the competition. I kept having the recall of hearing the laughter from my seniors in my ears, hearing them telling me not to make a fool of myself on the stage.
On the day of the hair competition, I was super nervous as well as excited. Finally, this is the day that I am waiting for and yet I feel it's a wrong decision for me to take part in it. I remained silent all the way to the competition venue, guess I still feel regret to join the competition. The competition was held in a ballroom at Plaza Hotel, Singapore. I met my ex-hairdresser in the elevator on my way up to the ballroom and he asked me if I had come to watch the competition. (he took part in the competition as well) I replied him that I took part in this competition and he gave out a loud laughter like what my seniors did as well. But at least, he did wished me good luck.
When the elevator door opened, I got quite a big shock! There were so many people around and the entrance to the ballroom were full of people. I started to tremble and really wished that I didn't commit to this competition. Suddenly the feelings inside me changed as I walked through the door into the ballroom. I felt so inspired by the sight of the platform. The hair competition commence shortly and 4 of my seniors took part in both Man's and Ladies' category. The Ladies' category was the first to begin and I really enjoyed the adrenaline of the competition, watching all the hairdressers strutting their stuff on stage. After 45 minutes, the contestants for the Man's category were told to prepare and get ready for the stage. This time, my heart was pumping so fast that I almost freaked out. Suddenly someone tapped my shoulder from my back, I turned around and saw my mentor standing behind me.
He gave me a wide smile and said................
At that very moment, didn't know what got into me and I asked him boldly: "Can I take part in the Hair Competition in a few months time?"
He looked at me with a raised eyebrow and he said: "Well, that's depend on your talent."
(Try to cut the story short)
So I trained very hard under my mentor and hoping that I could join the hair competition. Three months later, my mentor suggested to me that I should take part in the upcoming hair competition for the exposure and experience and he had enrolled my name for it. He suggested that I should take part in the Man's Cut and Blow Dry category as it's much easier. (By the way, my mentor was once the Ladies' Cut and Blow Dry Category Winner in that competition) I was overwhelmed by joy, finally I can take part in the hair competition that I wanted so much to be in.
I started to hunt for my male model and the hairstyle that I wanted to create. I practice everyday on my male haircut skills, especially on the scissors over comb technique until my fingers and wrist all gone sore. In fact, my first intention of joining the competition wasn't to win, but to gain exposure. My mentor seems pretty satisfied with my progress and told me that if I continue to cut with precision and neatness, I might win a prize in the competition. Those words were met with laughter from all my seniors.
The hair competition was just a couple of days away and with each closing day, I felt nervous and with butterflies in my stomach. It's kinda of mixed feelings, I felt I wanted out of the competition. I kept having the recall of hearing the laughter from my seniors in my ears, hearing them telling me not to make a fool of myself on the stage.
On the day of the hair competition, I was super nervous as well as excited. Finally, this is the day that I am waiting for and yet I feel it's a wrong decision for me to take part in it. I remained silent all the way to the competition venue, guess I still feel regret to join the competition. The competition was held in a ballroom at Plaza Hotel, Singapore. I met my ex-hairdresser in the elevator on my way up to the ballroom and he asked me if I had come to watch the competition. (he took part in the competition as well) I replied him that I took part in this competition and he gave out a loud laughter like what my seniors did as well. But at least, he did wished me good luck.
When the elevator door opened, I got quite a big shock! There were so many people around and the entrance to the ballroom were full of people. I started to tremble and really wished that I didn't commit to this competition. Suddenly the feelings inside me changed as I walked through the door into the ballroom. I felt so inspired by the sight of the platform. The hair competition commence shortly and 4 of my seniors took part in both Man's and Ladies' category. The Ladies' category was the first to begin and I really enjoyed the adrenaline of the competition, watching all the hairdressers strutting their stuff on stage. After 45 minutes, the contestants for the Man's category were told to prepare and get ready for the stage. This time, my heart was pumping so fast that I almost freaked out. Suddenly someone tapped my shoulder from my back, I turned around and saw my mentor standing behind me.
He gave me a wide smile and said................
Sunday, May 15, 2011
My Story..... Part 3
Suddenly, one of my senior turn to me and laughed. Pointing his finger at me and he said: "You wanna join? Do you know what a hair cutter means? Come on, you are just a cleaner in the salon, can't even hold a pair of scissors and you are telling us that you wanna join a hair competition? Go and take a broom and sweep the floor." and they all roared in laughter
These words really hit me right into my heart and it's hurts. Till today, I can still remember those words very clearly in my mind. Those words hurt me, but they spurned me to work and train harder. That day, as I walked away after hearing those words, I told myself that I will train as much as I can and I swear that I will be standing on the same competition platform as with all my seniors. (As I type these few sentences in this post, it brings back this sad memory.)
I was quiet the next day and like usual, I can only peek at the way my seniors cut their customers' hair and try to remember what they do. Something unusual happens in that afternoon, my boss asked me to join him for a smoke outside the salon. There, he handed me a pair of very old scissors and he shown and taught me the proper technique of handling a scissors. He told me to practice the handling of scissors everyday and whenever I'm free. He also mentioned that only if I can hold the scissors correctly and firm, then will he start to teach me how to cut hair. Whenever I'm done with the sweeping of floor, practicing of perming, blow drying and all those bits and pieces of work, I will grab that pair of scissors and start practicing. Even when I was on a bus ride to and fro from work, I always have that scissors in my hand practicing away.
10 days had passed after I was taught on how to handle a pair of scissors. My Boss asked me to show him my "new skill" that afternoon, he just nodded his head and said: "OK".
These words really hit me right into my heart and it's hurts. Till today, I can still remember those words very clearly in my mind. Those words hurt me, but they spurned me to work and train harder. That day, as I walked away after hearing those words, I told myself that I will train as much as I can and I swear that I will be standing on the same competition platform as with all my seniors. (As I type these few sentences in this post, it brings back this sad memory.)
I was quiet the next day and like usual, I can only peek at the way my seniors cut their customers' hair and try to remember what they do. Something unusual happens in that afternoon, my boss asked me to join him for a smoke outside the salon. There, he handed me a pair of very old scissors and he shown and taught me the proper technique of handling a scissors. He told me to practice the handling of scissors everyday and whenever I'm free. He also mentioned that only if I can hold the scissors correctly and firm, then will he start to teach me how to cut hair. Whenever I'm done with the sweeping of floor, practicing of perming, blow drying and all those bits and pieces of work, I will grab that pair of scissors and start practicing. Even when I was on a bus ride to and fro from work, I always have that scissors in my hand practicing away.
10 days had passed after I was taught on how to handle a pair of scissors. My Boss asked me to show him my "new skill" that afternoon, he just nodded his head and said: "OK".
Saturday, May 14, 2011
My Birthday "Bash"
Everyone will get soaking wet from head to toe and that's including me. No one is supposed to get angry as that's the birthday celebration culture in this country. It's almost like having a mini Thai SongKran Festival in the salon.
It feels like a heavy rain just happen to pour in the salon. Every staff is chasing each other to get them wet, but the ultimate aim of my staff is to get the birthday boy; which is me; super wet.. hahahahha.. it was pretty fun. My staff prepared packets of water "bomb" and they hide the 'waterbombs' everywhere in the salon (especially in the trolleys). By the way, all the water sprays we used for wetting customers' hair proved very useful during such events in the salon. Color bowls, pails and anything that you can think of that can hold water are potential weapons. At around 6pm in the evening, we started to remove our money, wallets and mobile phones from our pocket; even our shoes and socks are removed too. The 'water war ' started right after we finished singing the birthday song. Well, those 2 beautiful cakes are completely wet too. The whole "water war" lasted for about 50 minutes, can you imagine how much water are used and the whole salon was flooded.
It was a great day and lots of fun, everyone started to mop and clean the salon after war; excluding me..because I'm the Birthday boy...hahahahha...nice! Thank you guys for the birthday cakes, fun and cleaning up of the salon.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
My Story..... Part 2
So, even without any salary during apprentice training, I gladly started work the very next day. The salon operational hours starts at 10am and I was there pretty early at around 9:30am. Trying to be punctual for my first day of work. :) I was introduced to the staff of the salon and deep down in my heart, I felt awesome...I'm gonna be a hairdresser soon. I was shown around the salon and was told of my job scope. Basically my job is a cleaner in the salon. :( I was told to report to work half an hour earlier so that I could clean up the salon before the business commence.
Every morning, I had to clean all the mirrors, salon frontal glass panels, polish the cutting chair stainless steel base, mop the floor, fold towels and prepare the coffee and tea for the customers. During working hours, I have to sweep the floor after the hairdressers finished their haircut, serve drinks to the customers, buy lunch and dinner, runs errands and learn to shampoo hair and basic blow dry. After salon operational hours, I will have to pack the towels to send to laundry, refill all the shampoo and conditioners, wash and clean the equipments and clean the toilet. However, I enjoyed all these works, as i know that this is one of the only way I can slowly work my way to the top. Everyday whenever I have the time for a break, I loves to mingle with all my seniors and hear them talk about hairdressing and daily affair.
In a flash of the eye, I had worked for almost 1 month in the salon as an apprentice. One day while we are having a break, I overheard my seniors talking about this local hair cutting competition called "Golden Scissors Award". They were discussing about taking part in the competition and the type of hairstyles they wanted to create. Out of curiosity, I asked one of my senior about the competition and it's entry requirement. I was so overwhelmed that I loudly declared that I wanted to take part in the competition too which will be held 5 months later.
Suddenly, one of my senior turn to me and laughed. Pointing his finger at me and he said.........
Every morning, I had to clean all the mirrors, salon frontal glass panels, polish the cutting chair stainless steel base, mop the floor, fold towels and prepare the coffee and tea for the customers. During working hours, I have to sweep the floor after the hairdressers finished their haircut, serve drinks to the customers, buy lunch and dinner, runs errands and learn to shampoo hair and basic blow dry. After salon operational hours, I will have to pack the towels to send to laundry, refill all the shampoo and conditioners, wash and clean the equipments and clean the toilet. However, I enjoyed all these works, as i know that this is one of the only way I can slowly work my way to the top. Everyday whenever I have the time for a break, I loves to mingle with all my seniors and hear them talk about hairdressing and daily affair.
In a flash of the eye, I had worked for almost 1 month in the salon as an apprentice. One day while we are having a break, I overheard my seniors talking about this local hair cutting competition called "Golden Scissors Award". They were discussing about taking part in the competition and the type of hairstyles they wanted to create. Out of curiosity, I asked one of my senior about the competition and it's entry requirement. I was so overwhelmed that I loudly declared that I wanted to take part in the competition too which will be held 5 months later.
Suddenly, one of my senior turn to me and laughed. Pointing his finger at me and he said.........
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
My Story..... Part 1
My father is a very strict man and is always in control over both my sisters and me. My parents are poor when we are young but both my sisters and me have never lament about our parents being poor. However as a kid, we sure envy what our better off friends have and enjoy.
I decided that I wanted to quit school and to look for a job so that I can afford things that I like. So, I left High School when i was only 15 years old. I discussed the idea of going to a hairdressing school with my parents and all hell broke out. My parents were disappointed when i decided to leave school and my father flew into a rage and he told me that he will not agree or support my idea. As for my mum, she just sit there and cries. She wanted to support my idea, however our family is poor and as a full time housewife, she did not have the money to support me.
The next day, my friend called me and ask me to accompany him for his visit to his hairdresser. When i stepped into the salon, I was caught by this awesome atmosphere of the salon (usually I had my hair cut by a local barber during school days).
The salon was filled with stylish hairdressers dressing up people's hair making them looks good and beautiful. From that moment, I find myself being fascinated by this trade. I knew that I need to learn a skill for my future and career. It is in this salon that I met my first boss and mentor, Mr Winston Yau (he was a former Instructor at Head-Quarters Hair Academy, Singapore).
As I watched my friend getting his hair trimmed, an idea came to my mind. I stood up and went to Mr. Winston and I asked: "Can you employ me."
He reply with a laughter: "Tell me, what do you know or what can you do in hairdressing".
I said: "Nothing".
He gave out a even louder laughter. Actually I was feeling pretty embarrassed at that time, because there were quite a number of pretty female customers there. ^^I asked him:" I can do anything to learn hairdressing, can I apply as a salon apprentice?"
Mr Winston paused and stop to think for a while; and then he replied: "Why not, you can join as a salon apprentice. As a salon apprentice, you have to start to learn how to clean the salon as well as learning hairdressing at the same time."
I was so happy that Mr Winston agreed to take me under his wings. I was told that I will not have any salary during my apprentice stint in the salon, however I will be given 3 meals a day by him. I gladly agreed to the deal as I knew that my family can't afford to send me to a hair academy and this is a great opportunity that I can prove to be independent. And I started work the very next day.............
Monday, May 9, 2011
My Story.........
I was cleaning out my bedroom the other day when i was back home in Singapore. I came across a stack of old photo albums while I was clearing out my cabinet.
These albums are long forgotten by me and as I started to flick through them one by one, they brought back all those smiles and tears. Those were mostly pictures taken from 10 - 20 years ago when digital cameras are not commonly been used. I found this picture which I posted in this post and it was taken back in 1991 by my father. This picture was taken after i won as a 1st Runner-up in the Man's' Cut & Blow Dry category.
It was my first hair cutting competition I ever participated in. I was 16 years and 4 months old at that time.
It really bring back all those memories and it really inspired me to write about my journey (hopefully it's doesn't sound boring to you. :p). I will try to keep my story in short posts and hopefully it can help to inspire budding hairdressing.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Professionalism......is for all...
Many times in the salon, I have come across customers with badly colored hair asking for help to correct their disastrous hair color which they did with a DIY color or right after a color session with other competitors. It's sure quite a handful and often it is also considered as great challenges to me (as it gives me a chance to correct the color and getting a new customer). However what I am upset with is not about the DIY colors the clients did at home themselves but rather poor color result achieved in salons.
I always notice that some of the corrective hair color services I come across are mainly over-lighten hair levels or hair not being lighten evenly. Cases where hair color are not evenly applied and patchy color resulted. What I find most annoying is, instead of depositing bleached streaks of hi-lites with hair colors, some colorists just simply leave the bleached streaks as it is on the clients hair and proclaimed that those are "colored" hi-lites to their customers (imagine hi-lites streaks of hair at a RPC of 8 on a natural level 2 hair without any color deposit). These kind of short changed act simply destroy the professionalism in this industry.
I understand that profits margins is important, however these "acts" will backfired very badly. As a matter of facts, these kind of "colorist" will be penalized with a bad reputation of being unprofessional and in long term run, the business of the salon will be affected. Nothing is worst than having a bad reputation as a unprofessional hairdresser or Colorist. Customers come to the salon and pay Colorists for their advise and expertise. Always remember to consult with your customers about how much time and money is involved with the in-salon services. Honesty is the best policy. Honesty will build your customer's trust, your reputation and your business.
Nowadays, there are so many color line companies offering seminars or workshops on hair coloring techniques and knowledge. I highly recommend that it is always advisable to enroll yourself into such seminars or workshop regularly to free yourself from fear, get motivated and unleash the artistic potential within you.
I always notice that some of the corrective hair color services I come across are mainly over-lighten hair levels or hair not being lighten evenly. Cases where hair color are not evenly applied and patchy color resulted. What I find most annoying is, instead of depositing bleached streaks of hi-lites with hair colors, some colorists just simply leave the bleached streaks as it is on the clients hair and proclaimed that those are "colored" hi-lites to their customers (imagine hi-lites streaks of hair at a RPC of 8 on a natural level 2 hair without any color deposit). These kind of short changed act simply destroy the professionalism in this industry.
I understand that profits margins is important, however these "acts" will backfired very badly. As a matter of facts, these kind of "colorist" will be penalized with a bad reputation of being unprofessional and in long term run, the business of the salon will be affected. Nothing is worst than having a bad reputation as a unprofessional hairdresser or Colorist. Customers come to the salon and pay Colorists for their advise and expertise. Always remember to consult with your customers about how much time and money is involved with the in-salon services. Honesty is the best policy. Honesty will build your customer's trust, your reputation and your business.
Nowadays, there are so many color line companies offering seminars or workshops on hair coloring techniques and knowledge. I highly recommend that it is always advisable to enroll yourself into such seminars or workshop regularly to free yourself from fear, get motivated and unleash the artistic potential within you.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Who can we blame?
In Most part of Asia countries, most people seems to be rushing for time in their daily life. You can see them walk with super fast pace; seems like they are late for some kind of appointments or they just seems that there is not enough time in a day for them. However that is the pace set by these "financial hub" countries.
These countries are so competitive that even the citizens are educated to be that way. Small market and tight competition makes everything come down to two things; that is speed and cost.
Needless to say, it affects the hair industry as well. Customers who come to the salon seems to rush to have their hair done. They expect fast and good haircut; fast, cheap and good hair coloring or perm. These really turn the industry into a frenzy. Salon owners, hairdressers and even Importers started to search for products that process faster, cheaper and easy to use. This kind of demand forces the hairdressers to skip on the fundamental steps of chemical services, thus enable the process to be faster and cheaper. However, WHO CARES? we are talking about competition and bottom line.
Experienced hairdressers may no longer be interested in educational workshop or seminars, but they are more interested to find out which product line promises faster and cheaper result. This is sure a sad thing happening to our industry, as quality is no longer a priority in their work or product used. As a professional hairdresser, we should educate our clients about better quality products and services. Often when salons get complaints from customers that hair colors or perm are not done well or are not lasting enough and these blames are often targeted back to the product line. These complaints should not happen if hairdressers stick to their fundamental and keep their standard in place. This way, salons might have more happier customers and lesser complaints.
Just a five cents worth of advise; "is that as hairdresser, regardless of years of experience, we should keep upgrading ourselves and keep sourcing for quality workshops and seminars to attend. Get refreshed on our fundamental hairdressing skills that at times, we tend to forget."
These countries are so competitive that even the citizens are educated to be that way. Small market and tight competition makes everything come down to two things; that is speed and cost.
Needless to say, it affects the hair industry as well. Customers who come to the salon seems to rush to have their hair done. They expect fast and good haircut; fast, cheap and good hair coloring or perm. These really turn the industry into a frenzy. Salon owners, hairdressers and even Importers started to search for products that process faster, cheaper and easy to use. This kind of demand forces the hairdressers to skip on the fundamental steps of chemical services, thus enable the process to be faster and cheaper. However, WHO CARES? we are talking about competition and bottom line.
Experienced hairdressers may no longer be interested in educational workshop or seminars, but they are more interested to find out which product line promises faster and cheaper result. This is sure a sad thing happening to our industry, as quality is no longer a priority in their work or product used. As a professional hairdresser, we should educate our clients about better quality products and services. Often when salons get complaints from customers that hair colors or perm are not done well or are not lasting enough and these blames are often targeted back to the product line. These complaints should not happen if hairdressers stick to their fundamental and keep their standard in place. This way, salons might have more happier customers and lesser complaints.
Just a five cents worth of advise; "is that as hairdresser, regardless of years of experience, we should keep upgrading ourselves and keep sourcing for quality workshops and seminars to attend. Get refreshed on our fundamental hairdressing skills that at times, we tend to forget."
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Joico Age-Defy colors... Spectacular!
My favorite colors to use to help me to get better gray hair coverage. Joico Age-Defy ROCKS! With the 3 defense Technology, the colors really helps to bring back softness and shine to dull and aged hair.
On certain cases of 50% gray hair with natural color regrowth, lightening of hair might be needed. That will also depends on the target color the client desired.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Best Clients of the Day
Got two VIP clients today in the salon.... Guess what... a pair of baby boys twins. Absolutely cute! Got requested to cut them bald .... hahahahaha ,,, that's was pretty fun... the baby twins hair are so fine and are so easy to cut.
To cut babies' or kids' hair, we have to be pretty fast and swift.. of course, needless to say,,,, extra careful. I uses a clipper with a no. 1 shave guard and like a bulldozer..... bulldoze all the way and the hair falls off fast. The twins are silent and seems to enjoy the vibration they get from the electrical clipper. That's was cool and fun....
2. Apply some baby powder along the baby nape and hairline, that will enable you to have a smoother "glide" of the clipper along the head.
To cut babies' or kids' hair, we have to be pretty fast and swift.. of course, needless to say,,,, extra careful. I uses a clipper with a no. 1 shave guard and like a bulldozer..... bulldoze all the way and the hair falls off fast. The twins are silent and seems to enjoy the vibration they get from the electrical clipper. That's was cool and fun....
NOTE:
1. Clipper must be completely oil free as babies' hair are fine and they stick to their scalp or get stuck to the clipper easily.2. Apply some baby powder along the baby nape and hairline, that will enable you to have a smoother "glide" of the clipper along the head.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Colorist's Nightmare?
How would u classified this client's hair color? A challenge or a nightmare? In Joico PowerPack Training.. we call it corrective coloring. Both me and Hidero ( Joico Japan) got this model challenge from our trainer Miss Danielle.. hmmm,,, anyway thanks to her... it prove to be quite a challenge.. by nevertheless, both me and Hidero love this challenge. We managed to get this color corrected.. although not perfect but we got a happy model.
I'm a little lazy... luckily i had the ever hardworking Hidero San to help with the blow drying. He's a great guy.. ;)
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Color Formula or Mathematics?
My all time favorite formula or equation used on formulating targeted Desired lvl of color ... it's very effective and i always used it to determine my formula and it's WORKS!
My personal formula: Natural lvl + ? = ? / 2 = Desired lvl
Monday, April 25, 2011
Joico Trend Workshop " Smoke & Mirror"
We got our Trend cut & color training with Joico Artiste Gina Coburn Steele... she's an amazing educator... she's awesome!
Will be conducting the latest trend collection workshop soon when i get back to Indonesia. It's fun and really squeezed the creative juice out of you. Watch out for the posting on the training dates.. Cheers!
(I apologize for the poor quality and not so well taken pictures here, as they were taken with my BlackBerry handphone... it's time to change my handphone :)))))))
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Power Pack Training
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