
Rodrick Samuels on The Silent Work, Modern Beauty Education and Why Empathy Wins
MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.
What’s hot for spring’s party nights and special days? We asked beauty industry experts and artists to forecast the fashions and share their insider secrets.










What’s hot for spring’s party nights and special days? We asked beauty industry experts and artists to forecast the fashions and share their insider secrets.
“For most high school girls, prom is their red-carpet moment. It is months and sometimes years in the making,from finding the dream dress to choosing the right make up and, of course, perfecting the most important accessory of all—the hair! For the salon the big night is a big opportunity, too!
Make your salon the first stop when guests get ready for their big night out—and remember that moms make many of the prom-spending decisions, so promote prom services to all female clients who have teenage children or grandchildren.”
Lucie Doughty,Paul Mitchell editorial director, A.T. Tramp Beverly Hills, CA
“This season is all about making hair look perfectly undone. Undone hair is more casual—and at times a whole lot sexier—than more severe or strict styles.”
Anthony Cole, member of the Sebastian Design Team "The color-blocking trend has been reinventing itself in new ways by combining different finishes and materials to create fashion-forward, updated looks. Apply the trend on your clients’ nails this spring by integrating nail art and a bright, cheerful, stylish manicure!"
MaeLing Parrish, dean of education USA for Hand & Nail Harmony, Nail Sensation, Reynoldsburg, OH "Up-styles can be very technical, and clients with long hair often do not feel like themselves when overly styled. Offer styles that build in simple replication with versatility--looks that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and wardrobe."
Robb Dubre, Kenra artistic and technical director "Easy, effortless updos can be found on runways and red carpets-but also on the everyday fashionista. Once reserved for formal events, the updo has transformed to represent easy-to-wear style that takes women from anywhere to everywhere in haute' fashion. Today, dressing up is all about effortless-looking style that transcends time and trends."
Nogodar Martinez, Aquage educator "Velvety, soft nails are the hottest new fashion trend. Designers like BCBGMAXAZRIA are showcasing matte nails on the runways, and Adele, Mariah Carey and Carrie Underwood are just a few of the celebrities rocking the matte look on red carpets!
Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI co-founder and artistic director
"Bright hues are not just for the young; they're for the young-at-heart who want to be noticed! For the client who says the color is too bold, add a simple nail art design on the accent finger. On toes, bright hues look best during sandal season-cheery and fun!"
Bernice Diep,Venique educator Highland Village, TX "A French manicure is always popular for proms and weddings. Today many brides like to use a color to coordinate their French manicure with their bridesmaids' dresses. On-the-go moms like a French manicure in white, because they're always changing into different outfits for their different roles."
Mary Jo Zwirowski,Dashing Diva national education sales consultant trainer Tipz N Toez Naperville,IL
"An updo with defined curls is perfect for weddings-whether your client is the bride, in the bridal party or a guest! For prom or any springtime formal, incorporate the defined curls into a half-up, half-down look, while beachy curls are great for less formal, but still special, occasions.
Omar Lopez, Sultra artistic director Salon Oh Ventnor City, NJ

MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.

"The mistake people make is treating AI like a vending machine instead of a personal assistant." Digital marketing expert Scott Moon shares how beauty professionals can use AI while staying authentic

Real-world advice on creativity, consultations, color, burnout, business, boundaries, inclusivity, client care, and career growth from educators and industry experts.

Today's clients are hearing more about longevity, biohacking, inflammation, and healthy aging than ever before. This article explores the science and language behind the skin longevity movement, and what it could mean for client consultations, treatment recommendations, and professional credibility.

Licensed to Thrive, Anna Manukyan's all-in-one beauty career and financial masterclass, is being gifted to professionals who enroll in L'Oreal LEVEL Rewards for a limited time.

From breaking free of external validation to creating joy-based goals, discover a more sustainable and fulfilling path to success.

A full day of education for hairstylists and salon pros focused on pricing, personal branding, client experience, social media, and long-term career growth.

From working backstage at multiple Paris Fashion Week shows to collaborating on four creative collections and expanding her international stage work, Michelle Bowden has had an incredible year of growth. Here, we break down her approach that drove her momentum, offering a framework for stylists looking to elevate their own careers.

This marks Ulta Beauty’s first scholarship partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, building on years of enthusiastic support for the organization and its mission.

Locally owned Great Clips salons offer a wide variety of career opportunities, competitive compensation, supportive salon teams and opportunities to grow your skills, both technically and professionally.
Sponsored by Great Clips

Salon suite consultant Karen Kaminski explains why cheap salon suite rent can destabilize the salon suite business model and why value-based pricing may be a smarter strategy.

These stylists practice hairdresser magic, transforming clients into unicorns, mermaids, rainbows and living works of art.

Keratin Complex is taking education on the road in 2026 with the launch of KC on Tour, a live event series featuring industry icon and salon business coach Tabatha Coffey.

Modern professionalism is evolving beyond hard skills. Technical training is essential but about 85 percent of job success comes from soft skills. In a world where AI and automation are increasing, human connection becomes more valuable, not less.

In his new book "The Creative Mastermind," a writer and creative executive behind brands such as "Top Chef," "Fear Factor," and "Real Housewives," shares his insider knowledge for navigating today's chaotic content landscape.

Personalization is no longer just the cherry on top; it’s the whole sundae. If clients don’t feel like you designed and personalized the experience just for them, they’ll find a salon that does.

Ulta Beauty is always innovating to meet professionals where they are. Amazing transformations happened at The Salon at Ulta Beauty in 2025, and Ulta Beauty artistry and education will be everywhere you want to go in the year ahead. Come see all The Salon at Ulta Beauty has planned for you in 2026!
Sponsored by Ulta Beauty