On today’s date it’s hard for me to discuss our
online hair classes without considering the big picture of
salon education. What hairdressers learn is not limited to formal training taught at academies, trade shows, in-salon classes and online.
Significant lessons take place, too, during everyday salon life. That’s what happened on September 11, 2001, when we all learned how resilient and generous salon people are and the critical role salon services play in times of chaos and sadness.
At MODERN SALON, we heard from a lot of salons that were directly affected by the terrorist attacks. Their stories, mostly coming out of New York City, amazed me with the courage and dedication of professionals who got their businesses back up and running within just weeks. We also heard from so many salon people who worked day and night to help victims both in and outside of the industry.
But I think the most instructive lesson was that clients sought out salons for comfort. While the country’s somber mood silenced the comedic monologues of talk show hosts, and spending money on something like chunky red highlights seemed frivolous, people nonetheless gravitated toward the salon even if it was just to sit in the chair and have a scalp massage. The salon returned to them a sense of normality. As you pursue your continuing
hair education, always keep in mind the irreplaceable service you provide in good times—and even more so in troubled times.
Photo: I snapped this two years ago, when I visited Ground Zero in NYC.