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27 Sep Financial Aid for Beauty School Students

Posted at 10:00h in Aveda Institute Denver, Aveda Institute Phoenix, Aveda Institute Provo, Aveda Institute Tucson, Beauty School 0 Comments
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Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

So you’re wondering how you can pay for beauty school in an easy and efficient way? At our Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes, we’ve got some simple tips on how you can apply for financial aid to get you started down the path of a beauty education. Check out how simple the process is and learn how to get started by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®)!

What Is the FAFSA® and How Do I Complete It?

Beauty school students have a lot to learn as they make their journey towards becoming beauty professionals. Applying for student aid should be simple, so rather than stressing about having to pay for school, you can focus on your learning!

The first thing to understand is where you can get financial aid from. There are plenty of private scholarships that are offered to students, even scholarships for beauty school-specific students.

But there are other options too! Federal student loans could be a good option to help students pay for beauty school. FAFSA® stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid after all, so it’s completely free to fill out!

One of the most frequently asked questions about the FAFSA® is “Where can I go to fill it out?” The official website, Fafsa.ed.gov, is the place to start your financial aid process. Keep in mind that if you are single and under the age of 24, your parents’ information is mandatory to complete it. If you are married and have dependents you are completely supporting on your own, you won’t need your parents to fill out the FAFSA® form.

If you decided to start a FAFSA® application, you’ll need to create a FAFSA® ID and to provide basic demographics, your social security number, and a tax return for the previous year. To submit the FAFSA® you’ll most likely need the code to the school of your choice.

Here are the codes for each of our locations:

Denver – 041671
Phoenix – E40394
Provo – 040723
Tucson – 041945

Once it’s all signed and completed then you’ll be finished until someone can review your application!

The nice thing about the FAFSA® is that it doesn’t take very long to fill out and it’s effortless. You can even fill it out on a mobile app on your phone.

What’s the Process Like With Student Loans?

There are more ways to pay for school than scholarships and FAFSA® money. Student loans are a viable option as well when searching out ways to pay for schooling.

First, if someone decides to take out direct federal loans, there is a requirement that the student has to complete an entrance counseling process and promissory note to receive their loans. Both only take about 30 minutes to complete.

Luckily, at Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes, we have financial counselors who can review info about loans and give you more knowledge on interest rates, cost of living and what loans can look like in the end for you. The promissory note is a document that you sign promising that you will repay your loans when the time comes. Both actions are mandatory to be able to be eligible for student loans.

The End of a Beauty School Journey!

If you’re accepted into beauty school, you can expect to complete exit counseling for your direct loan. You can log in to studentloans.gov with your id username and password. Select “exit counseling for undergraduate borrowers” and it can give you great information on repayment options, the total debt owed, your grace period and a loan servicer. If you have questions you can always contact your financial aid office.

Are You Looking Into Beginning an Education in Beauty?

There are a lot of secondary education options available out there, but there’s nothing quite like an education and a potential career in beauty. If you are looking into a future of beauty, it’s important to research beauty schools with extra opportunities and resources, like financial aid assistance! At all four of our Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes locations we offer financial aid to those who qualify. See if you have what a beauty professional is made of and what kind of program is best for you!

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Man getting a fade haircut at the barbershop.

24 Sep Our Barbering Program at Aveda Institute Denver

Posted at 16:18h in News 0 Comments
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Barbershops are back and they’re trendier than ever. Since 2013 there’s been a huge resurgence in men’s grooming services. Modern men are more educated than ever about hair and skin services, which means they’re more willing to visit a barber who specializes in men’s grooming.

At Aveda Institute Denver, we now offer a barber program to support this rising trend in barbering. If you’re interested in specializing in sleek, modern cuts and facial hair grooming techniques, this could be the perfect program for you!

What You Can Learn

We’ve designed our program to help prepare students with the essentials they’ll need to know in a barbershop or salon that includes barbering services. In this Aveda-infused curriculum, you can learn:

  • Straight razor shaves
  • Men’s cuts
  • Clipper cuts
  • Grooming and styling for men
  • Face and head shaving
  • Color for men
  • Facials and facial massage
  • Line-ups
  • Razor fades

Barber holds up a mirror to his client.

Program Scheduling

If you’re looking for scheduling flexibility, our barber program is taught Monday-Wednesday from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm. We wanted this program to integrate with busy schedules because we understand that life can be hectic. But that doesn’t mean you need to put your education and future goals on hold.

Personal Benefits

As a barber, you can have the chance to socialize and flex your creative muscles. Every client is different, so there’s always the chance to meet someone new. You’ll also have to tailor your services to each unique request, which is a great way to practice your skills and grow as a creative professional.

If you love meeting and chatting with new people, working as a barber can easily provide the daily socialization you crave.

Career Flexibility

Whether you love the idea of working in a barbershop, or you’re looking to go solo, barbering can offer that type of flexibility. Many barbers choose to become employees at barbershops or salons, while others rent space and work for themselves. Some even set up shop in their own home.

Unlike barbershops of the past, you aren’t limited to one option as a modern-day barber. This form of career flexibility isn’t available for a lot of professions outside the beauty industry, so it’s definitely something to think about as you’re considering our program.

Learn More About Barbering at Aveda Institute Denver!

If you feel inspired to learn more about our barber program, request more information here! This is a great path to take if you want to grow creatively and specialize in services that are growing in popularity. Get in touch with Aveda Institute Denver today to learn how you can begin your barbering education.

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Kat carpooling to Aveda beauty school.

24 Mar Day In the Life of a Student

Posted at 15:32h in Aveda Institute Denver, News 1 Comment
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Meet Kat Unruh, cosmetology student at Aveda Institute in Denver. She took over our Instagram to share what it’s like to be a student at Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes.

My morning routine always starts with my hair! I usually only wash my hair every other day, so for my day two (or three) hair I  use a touch of dry shampoo and I recently got a sample of the Aveda Shampure Thermal Dry Conditioner! It’s the newest part of my daily routine.

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Off to school with my fiancé Kody driving. To save money and to reduce car pollution we often car pool with other students in my class and he drops us off in the mornings.

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Striking a pose with one of my besties on campus, Brandi. Our class as a whole is super supportive of each other, we really have an incredible group of people.

IMG_6345I had to stop down by administration and say hi to Kristy Fiore. She’s part of our admissions team and helped me start my journey at the Aveda Institute Denver. She’s just the sweetest ☺️
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In the Expression Phase of our Cosmetology program we learn the 60 minute facial. Today we learned the first part of the facial and we got to receive a little pampering from each other.
IMG_6294After school, I get started on my before-bed routine. I cleanse my face and sometimes do a mask and to finish off I apply the Tulasara Wedding Masque to prep my skin for the next day.
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Since its flashback Friday, here’s a little photo of myself with the girls backstage at London fashion week for our recent study abroad trip

IMG_6348To follow Kat’s Instagram: @katunruhmua
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Professional hair styling model in India.

12 Mar #BeautyHeals : India Study Abroad Experience

Posted at 22:03h in News 0 Comments
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At the Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes, we host study abroad opportunities as a Point of Difference in our curriculum. Inspire Greatness Aveda Institute students and graduates are able to apply to be accepted to represent the schools during these excursions. In 2016, we visited India for the second time in our study abroad experiences, which over the years has also included Madrid, Berlin, Tokyo, and London.

The obvious question here is why would a beauty school send students to India for a study abroad experience? Let’s back up a bit…

FullSizeRender (3)Aveda: The Art and Science of Pure Plant and Flower Essences. Rooted, in Ayurveda, Aveda has been a pioneer in blending the world of beauty with the environment to create inner and outer beauty, balanced in wellness. It was Aveda’s founder, Horst Rechelbacher, that had the vision to change the world by changing the way we do business. After his passing a few years ago, he left a legacy of love behind, reminding us all that love is all there is. Love for the planet and people.

Today, Aveda is able to showcase that it’s rooted in a holistic, healing practice known as Ayurveda, because it’s becoming more understood in the West. Ayurveda has been around for 5,ooo plus years and originated in India as a medical practice focused on energy of the mind, body and being. We are all made of energy and the idea is to create balance through understanding energy. Ayurveda breaks down energy into three categories or doshas known as Vata (Air, Infinity) Pitta (Fire, Water) and Kapaha (Water, Earth). We are all born with a unique dosha blend and through nutrition, yoga, meditation and daily routing (dinacharya), we each have the power to use the medicines of the Earth (plants, herbs) to heal ourselves.

We may know Ayurveda more commonly in the West as “alternative medicine.” Horst spent many years in India studying Ayurveda and realized the great need in bridging the gap between the wellness and beauty industries. Most cosmetics, perfumes, and products were then and are still petroleum-based, synthetic, tested on animals or have toxic ingredients. His vision was clear. The products that make us beautiful should also be healthy for us. Ayurveda is the root of Aveda. In Sanskrit, Aveda translates to mean “knowledge of all things.”

In 1978, the Aveda journey began with the Aveda Mission and the idea that Ayurveda would be an influence in all our products and services. We see this today through our rituals like an energizing scalp massage or relaxing sensory experience. We see it through the plant-powered products and ingredient sourcing from the Earth. We experience it in how our guests FEEL when they leave our salons and spas. We see it in our curriculum and education.

Since 1978, we have worked with Ayurvedic consultants from India to ensure quality and performance of all our products and services. We celebrate that we can offer a Study Abroad Experience to India for our team and students as it brings them in contact with our roots.

IMG_1208One of our esthiology and massage therapy graduates, Grace Henniger, attended as a student along with classmates and members of the Aveda network. Travelers were guided by Inspire Greatness Aveda Institute Operations Director, Karling Cosca, and Aveda tribal elder Helga Hefner, and Sumit and Navneeta Badola. Below, Grace shares some of her thoughts on this life-changing experience.

Q: Why did you apply for this opportunity?

A: I saw what a huge opportunity this would be to learn about Aveda and Ayurveda from where it all began.

Q: What was your favorite part of the experience?

A: Gaining a connection with so many people who started off as strangers and left being a family. We had an amazing group of people. I became good friends with many of them and have a deep love and appreciation for all of them, especially our amazing guides, Helga Hefner, and Sumit and Navneeta Badola. Being with Helga was certainly life changing. She is one of the most beautiful souls I have had the pleasure of meeting, and her wisdom and kindness has changed my life forever. Sumit and Navneeta have become my family, and I will forever appreciate their teachings and blessings.

Q: What was something you didn’t expect to experience?

A: I learned many things about myself on this trip. Mainly I learned that I have control over everything I feel, and any situation can be made into a learning experience; so now I choose to see everything through rose-colored glasses. That’s how I saw the culture in India- everyone lives their lives through their hearts. There’s lots of gratitude and love in their everyday lives, doing daily prayers and blessings. It’s similar to America in the sense that everyone is busy with their work and families, but in India everyone is more present in what they do. That’s one thing that I have brought back with me and hope to share with many people.

Q: What did you learn most during this trip?

A: If you can be in the moment with every moment, then there is more room for joy and appreciation. Especially at the beginning and end of every day.  Each day I now try to sit in silence and be grateful. Overall, this was such a life changing and enlightening experience. I feel so blessed to have gone through this as a student, so that as I go into my career I can bring this insight and wisdom to my guests and help transform their lives with light and love.

In the picture shared here from Grace’s Instagram, the caption reads, “Words cannot describe how grateful I am. Watching the sunrise over the Himalayan mountains gave me the deepest feeling of purpose and serenity. I will never forget how magical this moment was. Thank you to everyone who made this happen… namaste.”

Later, an article would be shared about this Study Abroad Experience, telling the story of how the students and Aveda team members re-connected back to the same roots Horst himself started. It was Swami Rama, founder of the Himalayan non-profit hospital who introduced the Indian heritage of yoga and Ayurveda to Aveda founder, Horst. The students learned a deeper understanding of Ayurvedic treatments like Panchkarma, yoga, meditation and the basic principles of Ayurveda.

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Another Aveda network member, Naomi Dove (@avedaitgirl) shared her experience through a video she created. Click here to see the video, shared from her Facebook page.

“Six months ago Sue Trondson at Aveda came to Phoenix and told me that I was going to have my best year ever! Five months later, the opportunity came up to apply to study in India with Helga Hefner of AVEDA. I wish the emotion I feel right now could translate to words. Exactly six months later, I’m having my best year ever. Everything in this video is so authentic and relatable to this journey. From the music, the emotion, the creativity, the picture of Horst…the music you hear is a recording from our celebration dinner; the videos you watch are real people from the #ashramlife, and the photos you see are original pictures I was able to take on a real life experience at the original ashram Horst studied at with Swami Rama… I’m so humble.”

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Meditating in an Indian temple.

19 Feb A Journey into Healing Presentation

Posted at 19:36h in Aveda Institute Denver, Events 0 Comments
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Ayurveda: Roots of Aveda
A Journey into Healing Presentation
NEW ! Wednesday 2/22 hosted by Namaste Salon
Thursday 2/23 hosted by Alicia Christus

Aveda professional use products for salon and spa services are rooted in Ayurveda. The aroma blends for customizing a guest experience create balance by targeting the dosha (guest's current state of being) that is out of balance and bringing it into homeostatis through breath and touch. The aroma blends balance Vata, Pitta or Kapha.

Aveda professional use products for salon and spa services are rooted in Ayurveda. The aroma blends for customizing a guest experience create balance by targeting the dosha (guest’s current state of being) that is out of balance and bringing it into homeostatis through breath and touch. The aroma blends balance Vata, Pitta or Kapha.

8:30 – 10:30 am
Presented to Aveda Institute Denver team, students, graduates and the Aveda Network

 

Ayurveda means the science of life and is a medical system rooted in ancient tradition. It has influenced many modalities of medicine, health and wellness today. Aveda is also rooted in this rich tradition. The word Aveda means “all knowing.” Through this workshop, this complex system will become more understood as a foundation to personal balance through learning about the connection of mind, body and being. Ayurveda focuses on each person having a constitutional type (dosha) and a means to be balanced through proper nutrition, wellness and daily routine. Today, this journey is about simple steps to understanding who you are and how to create balance. Students will leave with a basic understanding of the doshas, the keys to balancing the doshas and how to create daily routine known as dinacharya.

Namaste Pure Design Salons and Spa and Hansa are now combining their passions for education and offering certification and licensing in Pancha Karma Therapy and Massage through Namaste’s Artisan Ayurveda, Barbering, and Massage training programs.

Namaste, The first Namaste hair salon facility was opened in 1993 in the spirit of that belief and on the principle of Lord Jagannath, a Hindu deity, sustainer of life. Our mission is to create a highly personal, welcoming environment that honors the best in each staff member, student and guest. All Namaste staff members are focused on providing outstanding salon, barbershop and spa experiences that leave men and women feeling better than when they arrived. Namaste Salons and Spa in Denver, CO are aligned with Aveda and its holistic corporate mission of global wellness and community.

 

 

Namaste Salon located on Speer Blvd.

Namaste Salon located on Speer Blvd.

 

Alicia has been teaching yoga since 2008 and is a registered 500 RYT and ERYT instructor. She completed her 200-hour, Level II and CoreRestore training at CorePower Yoga and Level II Yoga Immersion course at Blue World Yoga.

In 2010 she completed the Journey into Healing Ayurveda workshop with Deepak Chopra and also attended the Off the Mat Leadership Training in 2011. Alicia leads yoga workshops, Ayurvedic workshops and cleanse programs and has been living an Ayurvedic lifestyle for seven years. Follow her blogs and posts @aliciarae_yoga #aliciaraeyoga

 

Alicia Parks Christus

Alicia Parks Christus

Take a few different dosha quizzes online to investigate what your primary dosha (constitutional type) is and where you are balanced and imbalanced. Here are a few Ayurveda quiz examples and more can be found online >>> 

Joyful Belly Quiz

Banyan Quiz

Deepak Chopra Quiz

Preview a documentary about Ayurveda 

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30 Sep We are here for you.

Posted at 15:53h in Aveda Institute Denver, Aveda Institute Phoenix, Aveda Institute Provo, Aveda Institute Tucson, News 0 Comments
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We are saddened to hear of the closing of Regency beauty schools nationwide. Our hearts go out to the team who have lost their positions and the students who have lost their education. We are here for you.

Professionals, if you would like to submit a resume please visit avedainspiregreatness.com/careers.

Students, we are committed to doing what we can to help you continue on your journey to a dream career. If you have questions about transferring to one of our campuses, please email, text, or call the following team members for the campus close to you:
Denver Kristy kfiore@avedadenver.com (720) 560-2155

Tucson Melanie mvindiola@avedatucson.com (520) 425-1700
Provo Kennedy kvermilion@avedaprovo.com (801) 448-2683
Phoenix Sarah slambie@avedaphoenix.com (480) 280-3781

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Portrait of Tiffany Swafford, massage student.

12 Aug Day in the Life: Spa Student

Posted at 09:22h in Aveda Institute Denver, News 0 Comments
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Meet Tiffany Swafford, Aveda Institute Denver esthiology graduate and current massage student. Tiffany took a moment from her day to capture what it’s like to be our student in our spa program! Follow her personal story on Instagram @tswaff_lashes

 

Morning Ritual: My mornings have a set routine. I start my day out with quick shower, eat a plentiful breakfast, and then my daily makeup and hair routine. My commute is pretty easy, I simply ride the elevator to the main level of the building; yes, that’s right. I am fortunate enough to live in the same building as the school! Lucky right? Before starting Massage, I graduated from Aveda Institute Denver’s Esthiology Program and in the meantime, I got certified in Eye Lash Extensions.

Before learning the Chakra Massage this afternoon, I wanted to show you my favorite Aveda Skin Care line: Tourmaline. The deep exfoliation is great for the dry skin that most of us experience in Colorado.

Tiffany S skin care line

Posse: At the Institute, I have met some amazing people. But, today I get to  master Massage techinques beside these wonderful ladies. These wonderful women are creative and bright. I am incredibly blessed to have met so many admirable people through my journey at Aveda!

Tiffany S posse

Massage: Here I am learning the Aveda Chakra Massage. Which Chakra is your favorite? Mine is Chakra 3, its the power/solar plexus center. It’s all about motivation and tapping into your own power. The color is yellow, and I imagine a bright yellow beaming out of me like a CareBear full of sun shine! Are you letting your light shine?

Tiffany S learns chakra massage

After school: Tonight I had an eyelash extension appointment. This guest likes a longer lashes, with a natural look and shape. I love the industry we are in, it allows each of our guest a greater sense of confidence by simply enhancing the beauty that already exist! You can follow more of my lash extension before and after by liking my professional page: @tswaff_lashes

Tiffany S lash appt

Favorite product: After a busy day full of hard-work, I love coming home and washing my face. But, I couldn’t do it without my Aveda Shammy. It’s a hidden gem in the Aveda product line but once you discover it, you’ll be amazed! Washcloths only scratch the surface of your skin, but the shammy actually cleanses the face with a smooth gentle approach.

Tiffany S fave product

Before bed: I like to end my day with a daily reading that reminds me how grateful I am for all the wonderful assets I’ve worked so hard for. What are you grateful for?

Tiffany S before bed wellness

Aveda Institute Denver is a school for cosmetology, barbering, esthiology (skin care) and massage therapy. To learn more about our programs, connect with our Admissions Team Leader, Kristy Fiore by emailing kfiore@avedadenver.com. For more information about our services offered by our students in training, call 303-567-7500.

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Nikki Black, Mrs. Arizona International standing in an orchard.

29 Jul Inspire Greatness Sponsors Arizona Mrs International

Posted at 12:03h in Aveda Institute Denver, Aveda Institute Phoenix, Aveda Institute Provo, Aveda Institute Tucson, News 0 Comments
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Nikki Black

Nikki’s story is inspired and one that fits perfectly into our mission here at Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes: education, leadership, community and beauty, or as Nikki says, “I am learning how to build an effective lesson plan during the day, and how to perfectly blend eye shadow at night.”

Just recently, the Mrs. International Pageant, hosted in Jacksonville, Florida crowned the their winner. Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes was pleased to sponsor Nikki Black, Mrs. Arizona International in her competition for the crown. Although she didn’t take home the title this year, her story of how she suddenly became Mrs Arizona International is worth a listen. Nikki is also sister to one of our Aveda Institute Phoenix cosmetology educators (and an Aveda Institute Denver graduate), Rae Black, who’s been a support with Nikki’s styling, hair and makeup. Before the competition last week, we caught up with Nikki to learn more about her experience.

Q: What is the Mrs. International Pageant all about?

A: The Mrs. International Pageant showcases the accomplishments of today’s married woman by giving them the opportunity to share their passion, commitment to their families and affiliation with the platform they support. This pageant system has been around for 27 years and is led by Mel and Mary Richardson. This system is successful due to its high ethical values and adherence to rules and regulations. I am honored to be a part this organization.

Q: Tell us how you got to this point and where you hope to go from here?

A: A last minute turn of events brought me here. I watched my friend spend the year as Mrs. Arizona International 2015. I thought it was an awesome opportunity for her but I did not necessarily see myself in her position. The Saturday before the Mrs. Arizona International competition, she called me and said a contestant had dropped out and asked if I would be willing to take the spot. After some consideration, and talking to my husband, I decided to go for it. On Monday my paperwork was complete and I was an official candidate. On Friday, I met with the official Pageant Coach after rehearsal. I competed Saturday morning and by that afternoon, I was crowned Mrs. Arizona International 2016. I was absolutely stunned, grateful and ready to promote my platform on a larger scale. As I move on to compete in this pageant, I will support my passion for teaching by sharing my love for Montessori education. I will also put time and effort into building a network of veteran teachers who are willing to share their experience with newer teachers. My long term goal is to build a foundation that supports teachers on a physical, mental and spiritual level. I believe that when we care for our teachers, our children excel and the future is bright.

Nikki and her sister, Rae

Nikki and her sister, Rae

Q: Why is this opportunity important to you?

A: This opportunity is important to me because it challenged me to really think about the kind of contribution I want make to the world. Pageantry, especially in this circuit, is about much more than beauty and evening gowns. It is about giving married women a way to give back to their communities and build a legacy that will thrive. It is also a wonderful opportunity to spread the word about Montessori and why I believe it is such a rich and inspiring method of education that really puts the children and their needs above all else.

Q: What has this journey been like since it started?

A: This journey has been a whirlwind! I am currently wearing two hats: Montessori teacher and Pageant Queen. I am doing my best to be successful in both areas, which means I’m spending time in front of my computer and wearing 5-inch heels! I am learning how to build an effective lesson plan during the day, and how to perfectly blend eye shadow at night. On top of that, I am maintaining my commitment to being the best wife and mother I can be; without the support of my family, none of this would be possible.

Q: What’s a typical “day in the life” with your current title?

A: A typical Saturday, prior to an appearance, would require waking up very early to get my makeup and hair done by my talented sister-in-law and Aveda educator, Rae Black. While I am gone, my husband wakes the children up and gets them ready for whichever sports’ game they may have that day. After cheering on my kids, I would go home to change into my appearance outfit, spend a couple hours at an event and then return home. Once I am home, I am mom again! My family and I may eat out at a restaurant or I would prepare dinner. We may catch a movie on Netflix or a new release in the theater. Then, suddenly, it is bed time for my children and work time for me. I usually stay up about three or four hours after they have gone to bed. I use that time to catch up with my husband, then I spend at least two hours on school work and Pageant work (which is a conservative estimate). I try my best to take Sundays completely off and dedicate my time to my family.

A typical weekday requires getting my children and myself dressed and ready for school. We arrive at school at 7:30 am and stay until 4:00 pm. Once we arrive at home, I would prepare dinner, then take one (or both) of my children to which ever sports’ practice they are participating in at that time. Once we arrive back home, the kids take showers and prepare for bed time. Once the kids are tucked in, I get busy with school work, Pageant preparation and planning for the next school day for another three to four hours. Then I go to bed, and we start the process all over again.

Aveda Be Curly Products

Aveda Be Curly Products

Q: How do you prepare for competition? Do you have a ritual or routine?

A: I am preparing for competition by doing a lot of research. I want to be knowledgeable about this pageant circuit, as well as the contributions of former title holders. I stay in close contact with my Pageant Director and Pageant Coaches, who provide tips on maintaining confidence in new situations and ways to present my best self. I also practice mindful meditation, which allows me to calm my nerves and stay open to new experiences. I will be using mindful meditation each day in Jacksonville—especially in the hours prior to competition.

7. What are your favorite Aveda products and why?

My love affair with Aveda started at least 10 years ago. It began with the Be Curly Curl Enhancer. For the longest time, I was searching for a product that would respect my natural curl, while adding definition and shine. What I did not expect was the softness that Be Curly gives my hair. I have also used Brilliant to add extra shine. I have recently fallen in love with the Be Curly Co-Wash and Dry Remedy Oil. I am really looking forward to exploring the skin care and cosmetic lines that are equally amazing. I love Aveda for their commitment to producing natural, plant-based products and the responsible sourcing of high-quality, naturally derived ingredients.

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18 Jul Inspire Greatness Presents: Master Series with Jim Pacifio

Posted at 11:09h in Aveda Institute Denver, Aveda Institute Phoenix, Aveda Institute Provo, Aveda Institute Tucson, News 0 Comments
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Jim_Pacifico

Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes Denver, Tucson, Phoenix, Provo are proud to offer Master Series presentations on campus as a point of difference in our education. This July, we are pleased to welcome, Jim Pacifico.

Jim has been in the industry since 1970 and is currently the owner of Centre Salons and World Class Financial Services. In 2014, Jim was the recipient of Aveda Corporation’s “Lifetime Achievement Award”. Jim was honored by Aveda with this prestigious award last month for his many years of hard work, dedication and philanthropy work over the many years in the beauty industry…

Jim began his career in 1970 with Clairol, in 1980 he worked with Zotos and in 1986 he joined Aveda Corporation as the Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Education. In 1989, Jim moved to Southern California and became the Senior Vice President and General Manager at Caesar’s Beauty Products, exclusive Aveda Distributor. In 1991, he moved to Colorado and became the President and CEO of Pacifico’s Beauty Products, exclusive Aveda distributor for Colorado and Wyoming. His success led Pacifico’s to acquire a six-state region. In 2007 Jim merged his distribution back to Aveda to become the Consulting Vice President for Aveda Services, Inc. for the West Coast Region. This allowed Jim the opportunity to own his own Aveda Concept Salons; five Centre Salons & Spas in Colorado, one in Utah and one in California. He is also the owner and founder of World Class Financial Services which provides accounting services to over 100 Salons and Spas throughout the Aveda Network.

Dale with Jim and Van Council Jim has never lost sight of the community during this time. His philanthropy work over the years has been very generous. He has led his employees to raise money and awareness for many different charitable causes. Some examples: collecting food, toys and money for underprivileged children & their families, the homeless, Katrina victims, as well as raising money for clean water in our region. Jim latest quest in philanthropy work is leading his salons to fund-raise over $67,000 for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation; visit www.realbeautydenver.com for more info.

Jim is dedicated to providing legendary support to the beauty industry, its professionals and customers. His passion in the industry is evident in his desire to improve the salon industry as well as giving back to the community.

 In 2014, Jim was the recipient of Aveda Corporation’s “Lifetime Achievement Award.” Jim was honored by Aveda with this prestigious award last month for his many years of hard work, dedication and philanthropy work over the many years in the beauty industry.

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Graham Nation in a suit.

28 May Paving the Way – Graduate Spotlight with Graham Nation

Posted at 01:59h in Aveda Institute Denver, News 0 Comments
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Aveda helped him get his start and through his first years working in the salon, Graham started to pave his own way. His story, short and sweet, is all about determination and, in his own words, “being hungry for success and busting a**,” Graham shared a post on his Facebook page a few weeks ago after accepting a modeling contract with First London.

So grateful for the opportunity I’ve been given the last few years. They say dreams don’t work unless you do. Believe me it’s true. I’ve laid awake at night thinking of the next move how to be better. Pushing for more out of my life knowing this life has more to offer. This goal has moved me to Los Angeles where I became apart of now my amazing salon family at @kenpavessalon where I can’t thank @kenpaves enough for allowing me to grow as a stylist and a creative human! The la…st year I started modeling a ton in LA as a way to meet people and still create and colab as an outlet. The past few months I signed with @firstlondon ?? and today I leave for a few week trip to work and grow even more! I can not express how grateful I am for the support of my friends and family and clients! I can’t wait to share my travels with y’all the next few weeks!!

Recently, we had a chance to catch up with Graham and find out how he’s grown to become a successful stylist at Ken Paves Salon in Los Angeles, Cali. And we’ll discuss his modeling career too…

@grahamnation

@grahamnation

Following graduation from Aveda Institute Denver, Graham started working at Matthew Morris Salon where he worked hard for about 15 months to build a clientele and then later joined the Juno Salon team in Denver, Colo. He shared how it was tough working behind the chair in his early years and he also bartended part-time to help steady his income. Graham describes his first few years behind the chair as a trial period where he learned from his mistakes, developed his craft and finally felt confident as a stylist.

I failed a lot those first years but for every loss there was a gain.

With his mind set on success and knowing that meant being fully booked, Graham make a big change in his life and got sober and a few months later, he says everything took off and started happening for him. He worked 7 days a week, hungry for success.

Graham desired to “make waves” in the industry so he set intention to move to New York and become more involved with fashion week and a celebrity clientele. Alas, after a short time he realized he wanted sunshine, warmer climate and a car to drive around so he headed West for Los Angeles, a better city to “make waves.” He finally made it to LA but the job he had lined up fell through. He was crushed but he didn’t give up hope. He put his networking skills to use and connected with those people who knows someone, who knows someone, who knew Ken Paves.

Let’s back up a bit because it wasn’t this easy. Graham had connections to other salons in LA and Beverly Hills but they want high-end, quality, experienced stylist – which he feels he’s still aspiring to be – and to get to that point he would have to be an assistant for six months up to 2 years. In Graham’s mind, this wouldn’t be a challenge for a 20-something stylist starting his/her career but being he just turned 30 at the time, he felt he didn’t have time to start at the beginning… again.

Kelsey Christian at LA models by Kimo Lauer hair by Graham Nation me on beat shot at #KPSstudios #marccornwall #makeupbyme #lightdusting #Kenpavessalonla — with Kimo Lauer and Graham Nation at Ken Paves Salon.

Kelsey Christian at LA models by Kimo Lauer hair by Graham Nation me on beat shot at #KPSstudios #marccornwall #makeupbyme #lightdusting #Kenpavessalonla — with Kimo Lauer and Graham Nation at Ken Paves Salon.

Fast forward, Graham walks into Ken Paves salon and immediately clicked with Ken. “He was (is) the coolest dude,” says Graham. In their meeting, Graham said he was asked two questions by Ken that he has rarely heard in the industry (which made him realize he had landed exactly where he needed to be). Ken asked, “What do you want to do? How can I help you?” Twenty days later, Graham was working with his first celebrity guest, a model. A few weeks before this interview, he had Eva Longoria as a guest for a shampoo and style.

Graham worked seven days a week at his training that led to a series of test-outs and presentations including nine color services, 12 haircuts while working an additional 40 hours a week assisting. The expectation was to get his timing down and presentation factor set to the Ken Pave’s Salon level.

I’m on the path and it feels right. My continued vision of success is building a brand, owning a home and my own list of clients.

As he settled in his salon in LA, Graham got back into modeling and is working with First Model Management in London. He has also worked with the Ted Gibson team as part of the haircutting stage team for New York Fashion Week. Graham continues to be inspired by his mentors, Ken Paves and Geno Chapman, and he also credits his time at Aveda Institute Denver and Matthew Morris as being instrumental to being where is his now and where he’s headed.

 

The educators gave so much of their time for a reason. I remember Scott, my educator, always saying “stay focused” there’s so much more out there but be in the moment and learn this first. I had to learn discipline. You have to learn discipline or you won’t have a career.

Throw back to 2009 when Graham was a cosmetology student, and DJ. Here he's providing the music soundtrack for our Earth Month Hair & Makeup Show.

Throw back to 2009 when Graham was a cosmetology student, and DJ. Here he’s providing the music soundtrack for our Earth Month Hair & Makeup Show.

His advice for our students is simple and involves living the Aveda mission:

 

Timing. Always be 15 minutes early. You cannot be late for a client, ever so don’t be late to school.

Take advantage of the yoga. I realize now it was the best thing for mental focus.

[credit to his educator, Scott] Stay focused. When you’re tired and over it, that’s when you need it the most. Know what you want and learn what the industry can offer you. Anyone can learn hair but you have to show up, be positive and stay motivated.

From being fresh out of beauty school to working through the failures and mistakes that led to opportunity, Graham paved his way to make his mark in the industry. We, at Inspire Greatness Institutes, know this is just the beginning of Graham “making waves” and they’re about to get even bigger.

Graham travels to Denver often and works as a guest stylist at Indie Six salon. Appointments can be scheduled directly through Graham by visiting his Facebook page or follow his story on Instagram @grahamnation

Graham Nation signature

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