Verb started out of a salon and we know that if it wasn't for our biggest and hardest working fans, stylists, Verb wouldn't be where we are today. This is the first post in our "Stylists We Love" series where we'll be interviewing and highlighting some of the amazing stylists that work with Verb and all their hard work.
Interview with long-time stylist, Judea, from Birds Barbershop in Austin, Tx.
We caught up with veteran stylist, Judea, from Birds Barbershop in Austin, Tx and she gave us some great tips for future stylists-to be. Originally from Phoenix, she spent the majority of her career training and working in San Fran and is now based in Austin. She specializes in haircutting and enjoys doing color as well. When she's not making your hair look amazing or doing an interview with Verb you can catch her swimming, riding her bike and enjoying the Austin food scene (us too!).
How long have you been a stylist/How did you become a stylist?
I've been styling for 10 years now. Since I can remember I've always loved doing hair and makeup, so my mom kind of forced me into the industry... and I'm glad she did!
What's your favorite thing about being a stylist?
What I love about being a stylist is working and talking with people all day... all while I get to make them feel great about themselves.
What's your personal philosophy when it comes to styling?
It's important to pay attention to a client's facial features, hair texture and lifestyle when deciding on what you're going to do with their hair.
What hair products do you use daily?
We use Verb at Birds Barbershop. I use and recommend Forming Fiber the most. I also love Ghost Oil and the Ghost Hairspray. I can't wait to see what the product line will come out with next!
Tips for clients who want to get the best results?
Bring lots of pictures for your consultation, the more the better. Also, if you're blonde, try to use a purple shampoo to keep your hair color bright between visiting the salon.
Most interesting person you've had in your chair?
Elijah Wood, for sure. He was super nice, and all we did was talk about Austin restaurants the whole time.
Any advice for new stylists?
There are a few things that if I could go back and tell myself as a new stylist I would...
I always suggest that new stylists do an apprenticeship. You will have all the hands-on training you need and learn more about hair than you will need to know in your career but at least you will have that knowledge.
Also, know that it's okay to make mistakes. No matter how long you have been doing hair you will make mistakes. Just learn from them and try not to repeat them.
+ Live a healthy life. I know from experience that what I do the night before work will affect my work and my relationships with my clients. I try to get some good rest, workout and eat healthy. I also try to keep the partying to a minimum, especially if I have to work the next day.
