The change in season is a perfect time to revive your routine and gain inspiration in the salon. Offering up a fresh perspective, Jesse Linares, Sam Villa ArTeam Member and TRACE SALON + SUPPLY @jesse.linares identifies with hairdressers who work behind the chair full-time because he is one himself. “Working hairdressers have to produce consistent results regularly on the same people. That’s a unique need and pressure that is often not addressed in modern hair education. It’s important to me that stylists understand the WHY behind trends and techniques and thereby gain more control over their hands, personal vision and their business,” explains Linares. Promoting education that develops a diversified skill set necessary for success, Linares is sharing more about his process and how he got to where he is in his career today.
What inspires you?
These days, it's my guests. I've serviced most of them for nearly twenty years, so I'm always looking for ways to up my game for them. Impressing them and continually earning their loyalty are things I'm constantly thinking about.
What was your biggest "aha" moment as a hairdresser?
When I realized the secret to satisfaction in this career is not to focus on making money or being cool - but instead to love doing hair and to enjoy my guests. Everything else falls into place.
What's unique about your teaching style?
I'm a working hairdresser, so my motivation and impetus comes from (and is directed toward) meeting the needs of my guests. Everything I present from stage or in the classroom comes from experiences I've had in the salon with everyday people.
What is your educational focus for the next couple of months?
I always teach according to what I'm working on in the salon at that time. Lately it's been body positioning and shear mechanics.
Can you share a moment when you knew you made an impact on a student's learning?
Whenever a stylist I've mentored begins stealing my guests, that's when I know. It's happened a lot.
If you were stranded on a deserted island (where beauty and fashion reigned supreme) what would be the one tool you would bring?
On a deserted island, I imagine the fashion is pretty rough, so I'd bring my Sam Villa Artist Series Polishing Paddle Brush. It works for just about everything, and I could probably use it as a weapon.
Tell us something about yourself that we don't already know.
I know how to use a paddle brush as a weapon.
Book a class and/or learn more about where Linares will be teaching in 2023 here.