The First Elevated Stylist Retreat

Sonia Yarkhani and Jody Kezar, co-owners of Evolve Salon in Toronto have created a new education experience for hairstylists. This year’s Elevated Stylist Retreat, the inaugural one was held in Muskoka, Ontario and brought together hairstylists from across Canada and the United States. Featuring colour and cutting educators including Farhana, Brian Hickman, Jayne Matthew and Jamie Sea, attendees rotated between sessions throughout the day. Along with technical education sessions also included ones on improving your client consultations, social media marketing strategies and vision boarding. The even also hosted a social media panel moderated by Yarkhani, which delved into each hairstylist’s career path and how they began to incorporate a mindfulness approach into their craft.

Brian Hickman’s cutting class, introduced the concept of mindful cutting, along with what he has learned through every photoshoot and delved into how hairstylists can learn the most from their photography. Hickman says photography is a great learning tool because you can take the time to really analyze a hairstyle in multiple different ways.

Along with creating one of her signature 70s-inspired cuts, Jayne Matthews also walked through the process of taking good before and after photos with your clients. Matthews also explained her razor cutting method for fringe and how to determine the type of fringe depending on your client’s face shape.

Canadian balayage expert Farhana shared her tips for establishing intention from the consultation through each appointment with her clients. She also delved into how she customizes her colour consultations while be conscious of each individuals own personal style.

Jamie Sea also showcased her creative colour application techniques, along with tips for ensuring colourists are aware of their well-being by checking in on their posture and physical wellbeing with each appointment.