How did you get started as a stylist?
My mom is a hairstylist and I’ve been watching her since I was kids. My mom used to play with my hair and I loved doing it myself as well. I started doing my friends' hair sometimes during school then I realized how great it is to make someone happy!
What’s your favorite product from LOMA?
Definitely the LOMA Nourishing Oil! I love the smell! It makes me feel like I am being transported to a spa. I am continuously using it in my hair, and my clients love this product. It has an amazing moisturizing effect; therefore, I often use it on my skin, which helps a lot with dryness :)
What's the newest, freshest approach you're bringing to your craft?
I've really been trying to hone my creativity as of lately! Most people feel bored of their hair these days, because of COVID19. To help combat this, I have been trying to entertain my clients by suggesting new hairstyles. A fresh new haircut, fun and unique hair colors, or even a perm that will help make my clients love their hair again! We are allowed to have fun with hair!
What are your stylist goals?
My goal is to keep improving my skills and have more connections with clients. I think this job is a special occupation. We are here for clients to make them feel beautiful. I have the opportunity to be a part of some of their most special days in life, such as a wedding, graduation, or birthday. I would love to be a hairstylist whose clients can feel comfortable with and trust.
What new skill would you like to learn?
I would like to learn about hair structure and organic products. I studied Japanese hair structure when I was doing hair in Japan. However, since moving to Canada, I have noticed there are multiple differences between the styling techniques, as well as client preferences in both countries. Nobody has the same hair, face shape, or lifestyle, so it is important to adapt to each cultures preferences. I have also noticed that most people living on Vancouver Island focus on organic and healthy ways of living. This includes the products they use on their body, as well as what they choose to consume. I would love to learn how food, flowers, and herbs effect our body, and which are the best to use on my clients to help me make them trust and love their experience with me.
Where do you find your inspiration?
I find my inspiration from reading fashion magazines and SNS. Fortunately, I have not only local clients, but also international clients. Each country has different fascinating trends that I have yet to learn. When I have time, I want to make a hair styling scrapbook for myself, so that I can understand and retain the new information I am learning, and apply it to my craft! I really enjoy crafting :)
What is the most rewarding part about being a stylist?
When I reveal the completed style in the mirror! My client's eyes shine, and you can see their true happiness emanating through their body reactions! That makes me feel delighted, like I really made a difference in their day. Furthermore, I am grateful to be able to watch my little clients grow up, while making history together. I feel like I have a large group of family and friends that can trust me and where I trust them!
What is your favorite cutting or coloring technique?
My favorite is cutting the short bob style. I specifically love cutting really sharp lines, coming in from a 360 degree angle. I also love doing nice smooth layering. Not noticeable thinning to get rid of the heavy part of hair. I just use my normal scissors and control the hair style.
What is a word of advice that you have for fellow stylists?
Have you ever used a drop of nourishing oil mixed with calming cream before blow drying? That makes it super shiny and smooth! That is my Favorite mixing things to make the hair smooth. I highly recommend it to everyone! Also, I sometimes use LOMA Nourishing Oil for finishing long hair when clients don't want to use hairspray. I put a tiny bit of oil on my hand and rub them, and comb through with my fingers. that makes it shiny and bouncy! The Nourishing Oil Treatment is the best!!
How do you like to spend your days off?
I spend time reading books, doing yoga, working out, hiking, baking, gardening and crafting. I love my job; however this is a physically, mentally tiring job. Those hobbies refresh my mind, brain, and body. I am making hair clips using a punch needle, and I have other projects waiting for me. It is so sunny and beautiful on this Island, so I should be active and not take it for granted! Can't wait for spring and summer!!
Favorite pick-me-up in the middle of a busy salon day?
Here in Sidney, we like to have coffee from Quince cafe and donuts from Sidney Backerly! Quince cafe has great coffee and delicious treats. The owner grows their own Veggies and fruits on their farm. They have vegan treats and fresh pastries. Sidney Backerly is one of my favorite shops! When Fresh Coffee and sweet donuts meet, that is the time to die for it!!