I’ve been working with Ouidad for over 13 years. I stay busy with my own clients, while new clients are mostly referrals. A short time ago a lady was recommended to the salon for a consultation. One of my colleagues suggested I consult with her for her particular questions. After introducing myself, she quickly informed me she was a breast cancer survivor. I did not expect her information and directness but appreciated it. I have had past experience with cancer survivors and hair replacement and many women in the process of treatment who are experiencing the side effects bring in their hair replacements for our services.
My consultation sat before me with actually…..beautiful curls. Her naturally straight hair had never styled or permed curly…ever. She did not know what to do with this new curly head of hair. This was not a visit of interest or fashion. My potential client unhappily asked “What could I do for her hair and what was our Slice and Carve? How does that work?”
As I started explaining as simply as I could, her demeanor seemed to suggest my answers did not calm her. I stopped as an idea popped up…..”How would you like to watch me Carve and Slice?” Her face softened…. and as I returned to another waiting client, I demonstrated the technique for curly hair.
After completing the styling, I turned to my consultation for her questions and comments. She wanted to know why there didn’t seem to be a set, exact pattern for cutting curls? “Simply put, rather than a generic size dress, we custom fit our styles as a tailored dress would be perfect on the body it was made for.”
Quiet though…she left.
Would she have ever consulted us with her straight hair in her life prior to treatment? From observing the life that she is now living, I don’t know. Compassion, respect, empathetic to another person’s emotions, my hairstyling with Ouidad has been such a rewarding life – easy at times, revealing, with the ability to create a beautiful, natural life for a woman. Hair means a lot to women, I experience the emotional shift to joy, freedom and then sensational gratitude.
When she left, I felt quiet too. I’m sorry for why she had those new curls, but I will be here when she’s ready to embrace them.
Vincent, Stylist, 57th Street Salon, NYC