Texture and braids have been inspiring me a lot lately. They are all over the runways and all over the world. This look was inspired by some of the high fashion looks I saw from Prague Fashion Week. How I wish I could have been there this year! Model: Anya Zaytseva

This is one of my favorites. Rebecca is a photographer and a local in my neighborhood. She is so refreshing because she is straight forward and such a wonderful woman. She loves photographing others but like most photogs she doesn't always like her own picture snapped. I got the rare opportunity to take a pic of this Balayaged Beauty.

Inspirational. These are all the same look but each one with its own unique touches. Learning new styles creates a pathway to new ideas. Keep your creativity flowing and grab a mannequin and create something new or try and recreate something you have seen that might have inspired you.

I love natural texture of hair. So many people want what other people have. I say embrace what you have and make it great!

Model: Carin Adame

This lovely young lady was styled for the NW Hair and Fashion Awards. The theme from the Kevin Murphy Styling team, sponsored by Salon Services was the cult film, Spirited Away.

Haircut: Timothy McClean

Makeup: Bek Harvey

Styled: Me

I got the privilege of doing hair for my sweet friend Alexis and friends at a photoshoot for some of her jewels.. She is the  owner, creator and designer of Squirrel Vs. Coyote. Her jewelry line is quickly gaining popularity on a much larger than just local level. Alexis works very hard to create looks that stand out and make a statement. I love her jewelry and own a few pieces myself. She inspires me because she is always pushing the limits of fashion. Famous for her chainmale work, if you haven't heard of her already you will know her soon. The sky is the limit for this girl! (Alexis pictured right)

I kept tossing these containers in recycling. I felt kind of guilty because they were so cute, One day it came to me to reuse them....Instead of throwing some of your containers away, why not reuse them? There are many uses from planter to bobby pin holders. You never know what you could use an empty container for. I once saw a gal carrying her credit cards around in an empty pomade tin. Sometimes I reuse my containers for lotion to carry in my purse. What are some ideas you might have to reuse your containers? 

I recently collaborated on a photoshoot with photographer Rebecca Rosen and my good friend Brittany Supronowski. Brittany did such a beautiful job not over doing but rather accentuating Anya's natural look. We put together a few looks and this one really stood out to me. I love the natural beauty that Anya, our model exudes. So soft and feminine like the flower in her hair.  Model: Anya Zaytseva

As a stylist it is nice to have some variety. Don't get me wrong, I definitely have variety when it comes to clients, but I do love to get out from behind the chair and hit the road. I am so inspired by other salon professionals. I find that I learn a lot from other stylists when I am on the road teaching. We all have so many years of knowledge that you are bound to learn something from each other. A mentor of mine once told me "you never want to be the smartest person in the room". That is such a wonderful statement and it is so true. You always want to learn and continue that journey of learning. I hope I never stop absorbing knowledge.

This cutie came in wanting to refresh her look. She wanted a summer style and that is exactly what she got!

Model: Anya Zaytseva

Makeup: Brittany Supronowski

Hair: Me

Model: Stephanie Miller

Photographer: MaryJane Photo Art

HMUA: Me

Model: Anya Zaytseva

Makeup: Brittany Supronowski

Hair: Me