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SEARCHThe Redken Exchange on Fifth Avenue in New York has set a high standard for pro beauty training, and it continues to teach, guide and mold thousands of stylists every year. Whether you’re new to this educational hub, or an Exchange repeat attender, here’s a look at how The Exchange makes you better in every way.
At The Redken Exchange, top artists like George Garcia bring passion and energy to every class.
It’s often been referred to as the “Ivy League of advanced education.” The Redken Exchange on Fifth Avenue in New York has arguably set the standard for pro beauty training, and it continues to teach, guide and mold thousands of stylists every year. Whether you’re new to this educational hub, or you’re a proud “Exchange Repeat Attender,” here’s a look at how The Exchange makes you better in every way.
Aubrey Clark is an “Exchange Repeat Attender.” Hear what she, and her clients, get out of every Exchange experience.
IT’S ALL ABOUT “EXCHANGING” KNOWLEDGE
The Exchange got its start in 1996 and from the outset its mission was to create an environment where hairdressers could exchange industry ideas and learn via adult methodologies in an interactive setting. Bottom line? “Our goal has always been to empower salon professionals with educational tools that help them increase their income,” says Suzanne Sturm, VP Education, Redken US.
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ANYONE CAN ATTEND
Even though it’s called The Redken Exchange, classes are open to every salon professional, whether straight out of beauty school or with years of experience. “We’re 100% inclusive,” Sturm says. “We want everyone to come and visit!”
YOU CAN FEEL THE DIFFERENCE
Anyone who has ever set foot in The Exchange immediately feels the acceptance, passion and enthusiasm that radiates from staff to students. Sturm says The Exchange is unique because it offers principle-based approach, hands-on learning and one-on-one personal attention with students. “Exchange Facilitators have the skills to motivate learners and awaken each person’s individual potential,” she explains. “We believe no two people learn the same way, so we provide an interactive environment to facilitate high impact learning. Our attendees absorb as much information as possible and have fun along the way.”
Redken Facilitator Becka Bradshaw brings the passion to every class.
THE EXCHANGE NEVER STOPS EVOLVING, SO KEEP COMING BACK
The Exchange leaders actually crowdsource to determine what type of education is needed to respond to industry shifts and trends. “We evolve our class offerings and facilitators yearly,” says Sturm. “We have something for everyone, whether they’re new or they want to return.”
THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW HAPPENING AT THE EXCHANGE
For example, there are four new “Experience” classes that include a welcome happy hour, followed by three days of interactive workshops plus a variety of New York experiences with top facilitators. You might go to a Broadway play, the Statue of Liberty or an art gallery for inspiration! There’s a new “Sunday Series” with top artists like Sam Villa and Tracey Cunningham. And in a fun twist, Redken is pairing top Redken Artists like Lori Zabel, Sean Godard, Ruth Roche, Hugo Urias, George Garcia and Justin Isaac with ambassadors like Jamie Sea, Rebecca Taylor, Elizabeth Faye, Cassandra McGlaughlin and Daniel Mora for a unique mix of knowledge and fun.
IF YOU’RE NEW TO THE EXCHANGE, SIGN UP FOR “COLOR & KNOW WHY” AND “CUT & KNOW WHY”
These classes focus on the “big whys” of color and cutting and arm you with the foundations of why you do what you do. With these foundations, you can create and recreate any technique. Each class is a great start for new stylists and great refreshers for experienced artists.
Take this exclusive tour of The Redken Exchange with Lauren Hagen. She’ll show you where the magic happens.
THE EXCHANGE CAN LAUNCH A DREAM CAREER
This story from Sturm sums up how The Exchange can be life changing. “In 2001, I received a call from a salon owner who wanted to sign his daughter up for every class offered at The Exchange,” she says. “He did just that, and I watched his daughter grow as a stylist, then as a Redken Artist. She performed on the mainstage at Redken Symposium. Her name is Lauren Hagen and recently she was appointed Redken’s director of education for Ulta Beauty. The Exchange gave her the foundation she needed to succeed in this ever-changing industry!”
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