Vivienne Mackinder and Nicholas French are two of hairdressing’s most iconic names. This summer they are hosting Icons & Legends, a two-day immersive workshop in Palm Springs, CA. Held Aug. 6-7 at the Nicholas French Skyfall Academy, a creative retreat in the desert, the duo will help other hairdressers unlock and expand upon their own creativity while inspiring them to step outside their comfort zones while still  developing their brands.

 “The world of reality has its limitations, but the world of imagination is boundless," French says. "This workshop will really push boundaries and allow hairdressers the opportunity to be comfortable with being uncomfortable.”

Mackinder agrees. “For me, creativity is a way of life. My best ideas have been born through mistakes. Nicholas often asks ‘When was the last time you did something new for the first time?’ It takes courage to explore the unknown, and in this workshop, we will create a safe haven to play and have fun exploring the unknown together.”

Limited to 20 hairdressers, the workshop begins on Sunday, Aug. 6 and includes a multimedia presentation on how to make commercial work more authentic and creative. In-depth techniques regarding consultation will be  discussed, including facial framing and the three wheels of fashion. Both Mackinder and French will demonstrate and then the afternoon session will allow the hairdressers the opportunity to put the morning’s teachings into use.

Monday, Aug. 7 will focus on high fashion and avant garde. Together they will share the importance of finding an original idea and developing it on a storyboard. After the morning presentation and demonstration, attendees will once again put the lessons into practical application during the afternoon.

This workshop is ideal for the hairdresser who is looking to take their brand to the next level through social media, platform work, increasing confidence and technique in the salon, all in an effort to communicate the art of hairdressing.

Icons & Legends is priced at $1500 and includes light breakfast and lunch as well as the cutting mannequin needed for the hands-on portion of the workshop. RSVP here: http://nicholasfrench.com/education/