April 17, 2010 (RALEIGH) – Samuel Cole Salon stylists prepared the hair and makeup for nineteen models at Redress Raleigh 2010. The fashion show featured the lines of fifteen local designers who use eco-friendly textiles, vintage fabrics, and jewelry made from recycled materials. It was held at Flander’s Art Gallery on S. West Street in downtown Raleigh. Some of the designers included Margo Scott ( Rocket Betty Designs), Paton Alexis Brown, River Takada- Capel, Danielle Wartner and Nicole Falchi.

“We always look for events that allow us to highlight our skill set, are fashion-forward, and promote a worthy cause (in this case eco-friendly textiles and uses for recycled materials). Participating in fashion shows gives our stylists a creative outlet to do editorial/runway hair and makeup,” remarked Kristina Weeks, Samuel Cole Salon Director.

April 14, 2010 (RALEIGH, NC) – Bumble and bumble’s Vice President/Artistic Director, Howard McLaren, flew from NYC to meet with Raleigh salon owners, Jack and Joelle Ray. His visit entailed a tour of their award-winning Samuel Cole Salon , a casual Q and A with the stylists from both salons, and a business dinner with the Rays. McLaren is an icon in the hair industry. With Bumble and bumble from its inception, he has been at the forefront of developing Bumble’s commanding editorial presence. He continues to be a much sought-after talent for some of the largest fashion events this industry has to offer like the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.

McLaren was specifically here to discuss Bumble’s expanding future vision of their relationship with the salon. “What a thrill to have Howard visit with our stylists and experience our salons’ culture firsthand. Our stylists were so excited to be able to meet such an industry icon in their salon and converse with him. Howard could not have been more charming, warm, and receptive to our team. Moreover, he flew down specifically to meet with us and discuss a more in-depth relationship with Bumble and their editorial resources,” said Joelle Ray.

April 12, 2010 (RALEIGH, NC) – Raleigh salon owner, Joelle Ray was recently honored when asked to be a featured expert for a new salon industry website called “Salon Owner Insider” set to go live this summer. The website is the brainchild of long time industry business woman, Jennifer Tyler. It is designed to be a resource for salon owners to gain wisdom, insight, and new ideas from successful salon owners with proven track records. Tyler’s questions focused on sharing keys to building a successful salon business. Joelle shared her expertise on the topics of education, goal setting, and leadership.

“It is always humbling and flattering to be recognized for your abilities and strengths. It was exciting to be asked to share our salon’s success tips with other salon owners,” commented Joelle.

 

March 1-3, 2010 (RALEIGH, NC) – Samuel Cole Salon’s owner and Director of Education, Jack Ray and Stylist of the Year, Sara Beard attended Current Workshop at Bumble and bumble University (Bb.U) in NYC. These veteran hairdressers enhanced their passion for their craft in this rigorous 3 day advanced cutting course. They refined their techniques learned in prior Design School cutting classes by learning to translate editorial references and fashion trends for their clients and developing an eye to design modern haircuts. They engaged in daily hands-on sessions with multiple models, experienced inspirational demos, and learned to incorporate trends and modern influences into their work.

“What makes Bb.U’s Current Workshop so cool is that it integrates two prerequisite classes – one that is more technique-oriented and one that is more theoretical. The combination of these two classes is in a word “enlightening”. It cements the concept of a truly customized, current haircut for a client as opposed to cookie cutter hair cutting. That is how you can take the inspiration of an iconic image like Sasson’s cut on Twiggy back in the 60’s and give it an up-to-date or current feel for your client today,” said Jack Ray.

January 25-26, 2010 (RALEIGH, NC) – The award-winning Samuel Cole Salon recently sent two stylists from their very talented team to Bumble & bumble University located in New York City’s historic meat packing district. The stylists enhanced their skill set by studying with master hairdressers at Bumble in a rigorous 2 day course entitle Design Workshop. These stylists engaged in comprehensive theory and hands-on training covering both razor and scissor techniques as well as consultation skills and product knowledge. They discovered new ways to hone their skills and expand their repertoire.

“Going to Bb.U was one of the highlights of my career to date. The inspiration that came from attending this advanced education course is something that I am excited about bringing back to my clients,” said one of the stylists.

Samuel Cole Salon is one of Raleigh’s top salons and is owned by the husband and wife team and veteran stylists, Jack and Joelle Ray. Continuing advanced education and inspiration are the Ray’s “Professional Edge” in this industry. “We only hire stylists who are passionate about the craft of hairdressing and whose continuing education goals align with ours,” explains Joelle.