I am a big believer in not buying into the idea of having big resolutions and instead I focus on transformation for new year. I kick off the year with cleaning spree and I take a hard look in the mirror to see what’s working and what’s not. Sometimes that means changing my style – from skin care to wardrobe to hairstyle. The new year, new you can extends beyond these outward appearance changes and also be an internal reflection on what existential changes we want to make in our lives.

Whether you set goals, resolve to make changes or focus on transformations the key is for these to be realistic and achievable for the year ahead. So that at the end of the year when we sit down and reflect upon our transformed selves we can see the progress we’ve already made and feel confident moving into the next year.

While for us, summer is a time of relaxation for your mind and body – it is not so relaxing for your hair. This is the time where your salon team can really strut their stuff to you. Before we start any service we take a look at your hair and talk to you. We all want our hair to be strong yet soft, with lots of shine and that’s where we can help. We carry the best products found on the market. Whether you just want a consultation or a deep clarifying treatment to remove the summer elements from your hair – we’re here for you!

However, this is changing because of today’s technology…blogging, viral videos, social networking and more means that the “street trends” are seen by people before the fashion designers have a chance to get it to the runway. Now, the early majority see the trends as they are currently happening. It’s an exciting time in our field because we are able to deliver “trendy” at the same time its happening.

Currently, the biggest trend now in hair color is the variegated color palate – meaning one color at the root and a lighter color mid way and finally a lighter color at the ends. Currently, Christina at Crowned has this style of color.

In styling, the huge trend is feathers in the hair. It is a fun way to add a little color and texture to your look hair for both low cost and low upkeep. Match this with a hair cut that’s layered and loose for a stylish and fashionable look. Also, re-surging are the pompadour looks for both men and women.

The most important thing with trends is having it fit with you and your look. We are always keeping current with the styles and trends in hair fashion. Plus, we always offer free consultations to discuss your style and how adapt a new trend so it works for you.

Good conversation and tasty food from the pot luck style dinner!

Vanessa, Nela and Rosa enjoying the gift exchange.

Marci of Lula Mae and Steve from Old Pasadena Management.

All tired out from the party!

I sit on the board of Old Pasadena Management. I love being apart of such a great organization for many reasons. First, I always strive to give back to the community. For me, it is an essential part of being a small business owner. Second, I enjoy meeting other local business owners.

I had a unique experience last week. The women business owners in Old Pasadena met for an old fashioned coffee klatch to share and expand on our perspectives. It was without question the best business meeting that I’ve attended in years. I was so motivated that I talked about it all day and then came home to pen this blog.

Lesson learned: sharing information is free – new ideas are priceless. I look forward to future meetings with this great group of women!

We headed out to do the shoot, which was adventurous! I was only armed with a brush and hair spray, but we navigated through geese, ducks, wind, kids playing, land mines(you figure that one out) and even a marching band. One of the best moments was near the end of the shoot when we were stalked by a peacock. Maybe he was eager for a debut. I’m not sure, but he definitely got screen time!



Photo Credit: Rose Magazine Staff Photos

The word LOVE sometimes gets tossed around so easily -  yet it always holds so much power.  Even though it may vary in degrees of satisfaction from “I love my hair” to being the three most important words you express to someone, it always holds the same potency.

Some my argue that the word love has become too generic, because we use the word on an everyday basis as part of our pop culture.   However, we all know that “I love those shoes” can never equate to a statement like  “I love you.”

My feeling is we all need some type of love in our life , whether it be a tangible item, a best friend or your soul mate.  I am happy when my clients say they love their hair,  thrilled when my daughter tells me she loves me and smile every time  my spouse says “I love you.”  So work the word LOVE into your vernacular as often as you can.  Feel the power of the word and smile when you say it or it’s said to you.

If we examined our lives,  we might find that we don’t pay enough attention to our personal happiness as we do to the happiness of those around us.  If we feel that the way we look plays an integral part in our self esteem, why then don’t we break out of the mold from last year?  Maybe introduce a new color in our wardrobe -  this year the “in” color is purple!  A shot of deep, dark purple/violet can be sexy and if it is a light purple/grape can reflect fun.  Sometimes do something different can shake off the cobwebs of last year.  Start anew with a fresh style, a different color or work in a few highlights.

My personal goals are to lighten up,  both literally and figuratively. . .  I’ve added some extra girth, but hey more to love.  Mentally, laugh more and always be the person I am with my daughter.  Plus, now that Crowned Studio is blossoming into the salon I’ve always envisioned; I may take some time off, possibly some long weekends or maybe a even week off to travel with my family.

I wish you all a happy New Year and some personal time for reflection.  Find your own voice and live life the way you really want!