The Spread the love school of South Carolina was a real treat. We were able to spend an entire day with the students at the Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology in Rock Hill South Carolina. (It is a beautiful facility that has grown so fast they recently bought more space in the complex and dedicated the space to theory) The Schools facility was fascinating. The different level ranges were in separate facilities. We first spoke with the students fresh into Cosmetology school. We were able to identify and specify the specific needs of a student who just began school. Separating the demographics of the school helped us to target our message. These students were fresh in, with the beginning excitement. We were able to inspire them to continue their journey and answer any questions they had. We pushed how important the fundimentals in theory are to pursue this industry, and achieve greatness.

Continuing the visit, Todd, Michelle (our Host),and I introduced ourselves to the students working the salon floor; our ice breaker. (It’s nice to just walk around and meet the students and begin conversations so when we meet we’ve already broken the ice.) We walk around with a full smile, and full energy. Often questioning the students on what they were busy with, we spoke that hairdresser talk.

Next, the students were gathered into a large theory room where we shared our stories to how we built our way to where we are today. Following with questions, the students were extremely interactive. It was so inspiring to see these fresh stylists ask intense industry questions, and see how intrigued and receptive they reacted. We then Challenged them to a STYLE IT, LOCK IT, ROCK IT!!!

The Style it, Lock It, Rock It Challenge went over well. Following, Todd and I expressed how well they did, but also gave some advice. “When creating your art, think of all aspects. Not only to style the hair, but why you styled it. Was it the cut of the dress? How was the makeup going to be executed? How many techniques did you incorporate within that cut, color, and style? What event would this work for?” Once again, we challenged them. New topics were given. The music was kicking. And boy did these students, no, these STYLISTS work to impress. These Stylists took that advice, and knocked it out of the ball park!! To see such imagination pursued in school, such love expressed with working the hair, such ambition given to the craft was so inspiring.

(The students produced fun and creative looks. We were impressed with their creativity and shared with them how we took our challenges to the next level, incorporating makeup, ornamental effects and really expanding our minds with elaborate themes that inspired us to new creative heights! The students took our comments and on the second challenge blew us away! One team even took pieces of real sushi and a set of chopstick and incorporated into their International Design.)