Finding a Sisterlocks Consultant

In 2013 Vanity Hair Studio NYC introduced Sisterlocks to the menu of services. Almost instantaneously a flood of women contacted the unique hair studio requesting "re-tightenings." Their accompanying stories & complaints from prior experiences  prompted this blog. Enjoy the read!

What are Sisterlocks?
Sisterlocks is a trademark company founded in 1993 by Dr. JoAnne Cornwell. The Home Office is in San Diego, California, and there are trained practitioners  and Certified Training Associates in over 30 other states. The company has developed an innovative approach to marketing its natural hair care system to African American women. The company motto says it all: “Sisterlocks is not about a hairstyle, it’s about a lifestyle.”

Why do you need a Consultant to install Sisterlocks?
Consultants are formally trained in the Sisterlocks technique. Training is approximately four days, which includes classroom instruction, practicals, and document completion. Students pay an average of $1200-$1500  to complete a Sisterlocks course.

Where do you find a Sisterlocks Consultant? 
Sisterlocks Consultants can be found on the Sisterlocks website in two areas. " Certified Consultants"(http://www.sisterlocks.com/certified-consultant-registry.html) and "Official Trainees" (http://www.sisterlocks.com/official-trainee-registry.html).
www.sisterlocks.com

The difference between a Sisterlocks Trainee & Certified Consultant.
Sisterlocks Consultants & Trainees are both formally trained in the Sisterlocks technique. "Consultants"  have submitted images of three clients they Sisterlocked from start to finish. Identifying clients who are interested in NEW installations can be a challenge when you are newly trained. Becoming a "Certified Consultant" can take time-on average three months to one year.  Sisterlocks Trainees are authorized to install and re-tighten hair as well. The difference is, they have not submitted the appropriate documents for "certification." Being listed as a "Certified Consultant" is  beneficial to the consultant, because it gives a perception of a higher skilled technician. Seasoned consultants  have the ability to charge more money as well.

What should I expect after making contact with a Sisterlocks Practitioner?
Once you find a Sisterlocks Practitioner via www.sisterlocks.com, schedule to meet with them. Consultations average between $35 and $50.  A good consultation is between 45 minutes and an hour.  The consultation has three elements (information sharing, information gathering, sample loc installations) and will be explained in detail by your practitioner.

Some people have complained about  the length of time it’s taken to schedule a consultation. Don't rush, you cant get your hair done that day anyway. A full explanation of this is below.

Expect to visit someone's private home. Most Sisterlocks Practitioners are not “hair stylists.” For this reason, it is not uncommon to meet a practitioner, working out of their home.

Vanity Hair Studio NYC offers Sisterlocks services in a traditional salon environment and offers private and enclosed booths during installations. The benefit of coming to Vanity is that you are working with a Licensed Cosmetologist AND a Sisterlocks Practitioner. This means you can have your hair washed, Sisterlocked, tightened, colored and groomed at one central location.

During the consultation, what questions should I ask?
Questions are always a great way to show your commitment to getting Sisterlocked. Come prepared. Asking questions off the cuff may devalue your consultation. Remember you are paying for this. 

Sample questions are:

1. How long does it take for  the  installation?

2. How do I maintain my locs?

3. Can I maintain my locs without a practitioner?

4. If one of my locs unravel, what do I do?

5. Can I wash/dye/cut my locs?

6. How often  should I re-tighten?

7. What kind of hair products can I use?

8. How much is the installation?

9. How much hair do I need for an installation?

What tool should be used to install and re-tighten locs?
There are two different Sisterlocks tools. See image below. Sisterlocks Trainees and Consultants are the only individuals authorized to order these tools. You wont find these tools on amazon or ebay!!

If you see someone using a crochet hook or latch hook tool...you are probably not dealing with a Sisterlocks Practitioner.

What should I expect the 1st day of my Sisterlocks installation?
1. You will be expected to pay upfront. Some payments are broken down into percentages depending on the number of installation days, which is fine.

2.  You will be tired. Sisterlocks take several hours and in most cases require a second day to complete.

3. Don’t rush your practitioner. Once you have discussed an estimated time frame, don't try to negotiate an earlier completion time. Rushing creates anxiety and can compromise the executions of your locs. The installation is the foundation of your Sisterlocks. This is the most important part of your Sisterlocks journey.

4. Don't plan a major event around your Sisterlocks installation. Anything can happen!

What should I expect the 2nd day of my Sisterlocks installation/?
1. You will still be tired!! More than likely you've only had a few hours of sleep and needed to wake up early the next morning. No worries, its almost over.

2. Once you are done, your practitioner should be leaving you with maintenance instructions and a "starter kit."

3. When you get home, you might find yourself staring in the mirror a lot. From afar Sisterlocks immolate the look of micro braids. This can be a little uncomfortable for women at first. However when you wake up and leave the house for the first time-fully installed you will notice the compliments and stares. Your hair admiration will increase as your hair lengthens and begins to "settle." 

How long does Sisterlocks take to tighten?
The shorter your locs, the faster it is to tighten. A skilled practitioner takes 3 1/2 - 4 hours. The average practitioner takes 5 to 6 hours to tighten an entire set of Sisterlocks.  In some cases practitioners will only tighten the  perimeter if requested by the client. This takes around 1 1/2-2 hours. Make sure to check the completed work prior to leaving your practitioner’s home or salon.

General Tips

1. Interlocking, Stitch-locking and palm rolling is not the same as Sisterlocking the hair. Don’t let anyone confuse you. 
2. Don't patronize aloof and unprofessional practitioners. The Sisterlocks technique is trademarked and has a full curriculum associated with it. The expectations for practitioners to be honest, respectful and professional are standard.
3. Don't wait too long to re-tighten your hair. It will cost you more money in the end. Your practitioner will put you on a re-tightening scheduling. Follow it!
4. On occasion customers have to change practitioners. Be professional. Let your practitioner know you are moving on (as a courtesy).  
5. If you are unhappy with a service, allow your practitioner to rectify it. Things happen, life happens. Your practitioner might have had an off day. 

If you are looking for a Sisterlocks Practitioner in NYC contact:

Vanity Hair Studio NYC
325 Nostrand Ave 

Brooklyn NY 11216

718-218-5691

www.vanityhairstudionyc.com

info@vanityhairstudionyc.com

Founder of Sisterlocks TM

          

     Sisterlocks Tools

"When the PROS CON you"

Is Your Hair Stylist Licensed?

How Do You Know?

In a Linkedin Group  of Salon Owners one of the most infectious topics that seem to resurface every few weeks, is the difficulty of finding great stylits. One of the most importnt factors is the lacking certifications/licensing.

Would you feel any different if you found out that your hair dresser was not certified to wash your hair, let alone administer a chemical relaxer?

In case you were always wondering, here are three ways to research your stylist

1. New York State issues cosmetology licenses to hair stylists once they have completed a minimum of 1000 beauty hours, completed a written exam and passed the five hour practical exam. One issued, cosmetologists are required to renew  their licensing every four years. If you go to the New York State Department of State website http://www.dos.ny.gov/licensing/cosmetology/cosmetology.html, you can look up your stylist by name or id number.

2. All licensed cosmetologists are required to post their cosmetology license in a conspicuous location,  according to the NYS Apprearance Enhancement Law. During your next visit to the salon, look around for this document.

3. If your stylists  owns his/her salon they would've applied for an Appearance Enhancement Business Application. This information is listed with the New York State's Division of Licensing Department.

If you still can't find your stylist information online, simply ask them for it. 

Good Luck!

How to Shop for Hair Products

Avoid hair care products that contain alcohol. 


Check the ingredients for these words:

• isopropyl alcohol
• propylene glycol
• mineral oil or petroleum
• sodium lauryl sulfate
• sodium laureth sulfate
• chlorine
• diethanolamine
• momoethnanolamine
• triethanolamin
• imidazolidinyl
• urea DMDM hydantoin

The Beauty Business

10 Steps to Opening and Running Your Own Hair Salon 

From the outside, it appears that thousands of women  have mastered the art of opening their own hair salon. From Dominican Hair Shops offering a $10 wash and set to Upscale Hair Studios catering to celebrity clients, the market for hair dressers to earn a living in the beauty industry is a lucrative endeavor.

Below are some tips for anyone interested in opening their own salon . 

1. Get a Cosmetology License. Its easier to run a salon when you understand the craft.

2. Establish a Business Plan. A business plan is a blueprint to your salon's revenue stream, operation and target market.

3. Establish a Niche. What makes you different from the salon down the street? Maybe its your hours of operation. There is a popular salon Downtown Brooklyn that opens at 6:00 am. This should have been a priceless gem, however the service sucked. So while establishing your niche, make sure your unique service also keeps repeat customers.

4. Have a Financial Plan. Don't blow your life savings on a business idea. Get financing from your bank or credit union. People tend to be more responsible, when they are liable for repayments.

5. Learn Book Keeping. A salon can function as a cash  business, but if you cant track your earnings and spending, how can you establish a pattern of income. If you're off the radar from the IRS it can be detrimental later on;  if you decide later to purchase a home or a vehicle.

6. Utilize the OPAL.NY.GOV website to find out what certifications and licensing you need to operate. Having a cosmetology license is not the only thing required for salon ownership.

7. File Your Taxes Honestly. Sure we all hate paying taxes. But recording your revenue will benefit you in the long run. Banks tend to lend money to business owners, who already have income.

8. Hire Talented and Skilled Stylists. A salon is not a catch all  for people interested in making "side money" or temporary income until they start working again  It is a real career that requires licensing and skill. Avoid hiring friends or relative that don't know the business.

9. Don't Rent Booths. Booth rentals create financial strains on salon owners. Both rents tend to be very low and does not cover the salon's operational costs. Both renters are not considered employees and can function under their own  guidelines. This includes the times they work, the clothes they wear and the customer service. If you want to avoid, conflicts and YOU working long hours to make up the difference for the salon expenses, establish a commission arrangement.

10. Hold Weekly Staff Meetings. Regrouping every week or every month will allow the salon owner and  the employees to discuss progress or lack there of. Meetings also promote brainstorming sessions.

While there is not a perfect formula to establishing and running a successful salon ,a guided support can always prove helpful! 

If you have any questions about this blog, feel free to contact us at VanityHairStudioNYC@gmail.com

Vanity Hair Studio NYC
private salon services

What Makes A Great Haircut?

If you're like me, you can spot a great haircut from a mile away!! The challenge is, not everyone knows what to look for.

I noted some tips in identifying... if you've gotten your money's worth OR you are in need of a do-over.

A Great Haircut...


1. Starts with a great consultation. What is your daily routine? What do you  do for a living? Do you have a photograph of the desired style? Do you   exercise? Do you really know how much of your hair will have to be cut? These are typical questions you will hear from an experienced stylist.

2. Does not require additional maintenance, like curling, hairspray, re-styling.
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3. Is recognizable the following day. If your haircut looks looks different after you leave the salon, then you have a problem.
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4. Can be worn curly or straight.
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5. Falls into place when the wind stops blowing
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6. Compliments your face shape.
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7. Can be cut with clippers, thinning shears, scissor. Quality shears are essential in this process.

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Vanity Hair Studio NYC
private salon services

The Salon Dilemma 
When Professionalism is not the Norm






15 Salon Donts

1. No Credit Card Machine
Clients receiving salon services expect businesses to offer an option to pay with plastic as well as cash. If you lack this feature, it may be a sign of a "static" salon lacking vision and innovation.

2. Long Waiting Periods 
If you want to avoid disgruntle clients in the waiting area, maintain an appointment calendar. Clients would prefer to wait several weeks for an appointment than to sit in a salon for several hours.

3. Personal Discussions Across the Room
There is a common misconception that a hair salon is the hub of gossip and life discussions. Some women utilize this opportunity to unwind and destress from everyday life . Its difficult to relax if you are being disturbed by an exchange between employees. Its unprofessional and a reflection of the management.

4. Taking Lunch Breaks During Appointments
Courtesy includes proper planning. Breaks should be scheduled in between appointments not during. Even if the client is under the dryer, they want to know that you are ready to service them at any moment.

5. Taking Personal Phone Calls and Computer Usage
Today's basic necessities includes cell phones and laptops. However, any and all usage should take place in private. Clients prefer not to overhear the details of your personal life or watch you respond to someone's status update.

6. No Smoking Near or in Front of the Salon 
While smoking is considered a social hazard in most service environments, it is also offensive to clients who dont smoke. Leave your personal vices at home.

7. Loud & Offensive Music 
We have all walked into a salon blaring the latest song on the radio;  and while we may sing along for some versus, we dont want to hear it through the duration of our stay. Avoid playing specific genre's of music. A world music cd playing softly in the background is very relaxing.

8. Temperatures are not Adjusted According to External Weather Conditions 
Comfortable temperatures in the salon is a priority. An effective business owner would invest in central air conditioning for the summer and central heat for the winter. It can be a little pricey to install, but you will pay more in the long run, if you lose customers because of it. Remember salons are usually 15 degrees hotter in the summer months. Identifying and addressing door drafts is also esstional for the colder seasons.

9. Clients are Overbooked 
It is easy to overbook clients if you need the additional business. Its simply not a good idea. Clients would prefer to pay more money for your service than to be on a line to get their hair washed.

10. Disorganized Work Area
I've always joked that a disorganized work area is a reflectiion of how that business is run. Suprisingly other people have shared the same sentiment. The first order of business before and after a service is to clean and organize your work area...period.

11. No Wi-Fi Available
If the New York City MTA has provided wireless signal for cell phone users, then at minimu you could provide WIFI service for clients interested in using their electronic systems as they wait. Its almost a sin not to have access to your Facebook and Twitteer pages at any given moment :).

12. Bait and Switch Hair Products
Have you heard of salon employees using cheap products and pouring them into the bottles of a  more expensive brand? It happens all of the time. You can't fool customers. If a client is paying $80 for a relaxer, their hair should be straignt, bouncy, shiny, and healthy without additional leave in products. You can't accomplish that with cheap hair products.

13. Abusive Language and Discussions Among Employees and Patrons
Cursing or using other abusive language should not be used under any circumstances. There are no exceptions to this rule in a business environment. Complaints from employees is also a reflection of the salon's culture. Clients become very anxious when they are receiving a service from a disgruntled employee. Remember employees and clients are not friends INSIDE of the salon, irrespective of their relationship outside.

14. Dated Hairstyles
We all know how difficult it is to pass the Cosmetology exam; several hours of timed applicatications with limited resources. However salons should keep in mind that cosmetology schools do not teach you hair design, only the basic foundation. With that being said, if you don't take advanced classes and attend hair shows annually, you will never become aware of the latest trends. We suggest having routine classes at the salon as part of the employees' professional and creative development. Clients like to know they have hairstyle options and not be forced to choose out of handful of hairstyles.

15. No price list
Businesses are required to list prices in a conspicuous location. This may be in the front of the salon. Lacking proper signage may be cause for a violation.

Experienced something not mentioned on this list? Feel free to share

VanityHairStudioNYC

by Beauty Schools Directory-Posted on August 23rd, 2012 

How to Pass the Cosmetology License Exam

If you ask Michelle, a master hairstylist at a large nationwide salon chain in Kansas City, she will tell you that the day she took her cosmetology license practical exam was “the most nerve-wracking day of my life.” If you ask her how she felt after she got word that she passed, she will say, “It was this huge sigh of relief. I was so excited. It was like, ‘I did it!’” There is so much thought and preparation that goes into the cosmetology written exam and practical exam after you’ve earned all your training hours at cosmetology school. So how can you prepare for your cosmetology license exam so when you go in to take your written and practical you are confident, poised and ready to pass the exam with flying colors?

1. Get Organized

Though exam formats may vary from state to state, you will find similar concepts on all of them. The first thing to do is to find out your testing date, get it on the calendar, plan ahead and start studying. Make sure you know all of the supplies you will need, the time and location of the exam, and if you need a translator or non-English language cosmetology exam, make arrangements in advance. You need to provide your own models, so get that locked down. Get printed proof of your cosmetology training hours. The same Michelle we mentioned above said that when you’re packing your list of supplies to double everything. If you drop something in your exam, you can’t pick it up off the floor and keep using it, so come prepared with a backup of as many of your supplies as possible. And don’t leave anything off the list – if you’re unprepared for any portion of the exam, you’re automatically docked. Write a checklist well in advance so you can check it multiple times before going in for your exam.

2. Start Studying & Practicing

Just because these are hands-on skills doesn’t mean you shouldn’t crack open your textbook and practice like crazy. You need to know this material backwards and forwards from top to bottom. Some states offer cosmetology license exam study guides, others do not. Talk to your board of cosmetology to ask. Be prepared to answer any surprise questions, and make sure you absolutely know every angle of the services you need to do on that practical. Remember all your safety and sanitation training. No doubt you will be stopped in the middle of an exam and asked to handle an imaginary blood spill cleanup situation. Another thing to consider is the exam prep program at Salon Prep. It’s an excellent, thorough tool that you can use to review all the material you learned in cosmetology school, but also has practice exams you can take to drill yourself on the materials. Really an excellent resource to have in your kit!

3. Mentally Prepare Yourself

Get familiar with the structure of the exam. Written examinations typically last 1 to 2 hours. Practical examinations can last from 4 to 8 hours depending on your state for full cosmetology, and typically 2 to 4 hours for shorter exams like esthetics, nail technology and electrology exams. Typically there are short breaks, but make sure you are quick with your snack or potty breaks, because if you’re late returning to the exam room, you may not be allowed back in.  Keep in mind that the practical exam is not one-on-one – you’re in a room full of people. So get a laser-like focus, just like you would in a salon. Get to the testing facility a little early so you have some time to review in your head, get familiar with the space, and most importantly chill. Which brings us to our next point…

4. De-Stress

A little bit of pressure can make people perform better, but too much stress before your exam and you could shut down. Since you started studying and practicing well in advance of your exam, there should be no need to “cram” the night before. Eat good balanced meals, stay well-hydrated and try to get a good night’s sleep the night before. (I know it will be tough to sleep when the next day is the first day of the rest of your life, but do your best!) Do something fun and relaxing to clear your mind if you can. If you do have to cram (tsk tsk), then don’t stay up too late. Studies show that you’re better off going to bed at a decent hour and waking up early to squeeze in some final review time, than you would be if you stayed up late to try and cram it all in.

You have worked so hard throughout cosmetology school to reach this point. You’ve done the work, put in the hours, studied hard – you have every reason to be confident. You know this. So psych yourself up and get excited about getting your cosmetology license and reaching that major life goal.

Here are a few pieces of advice from cosmetologists, barbers and other folks who have passed the test:

• “Take the practice exam over and over again. Grade yourself and retake only the questions you missed. Repeat this process until you miss none of them. The practice tests in the book are lifted directly for the exams. Everyone should get 100% on the written exam. The info is there for you. It just requires a bit of commitment, like everything else in life.” – Ivan Zoot from Chicago, IL @ZootHair
• “Just be calm and relax, and remember all your steps. Have 100% faith in yourself!” Aaron S. in Winston Salem, NC @ImMyOwnDamnFan
• “As a barber, learn your shears and master them. A lot of fine tuning comes from those and the razor.” Drew C. in Tampa, FL @darcc1313
• “The straight razor on a balloon is key. Don’t let hair color stay in too long.” Jason J. in Mableton, GA @Jaydice_Roll
• “Be confident.” – Nakia E. in Los Angeles, CA
• “Take advantage of your instructors’ knowledge. No question is a dumb question. Over study and attend as many hair shows as possible with that lovely student discount.” – Carey W. at Cali Spa in Fort Wayne, IN
• “Don’t freak out. You already know how to do everything, you just have to show it. As for the written, if you paid attention at all in school you will pass it with flying colors!” Austin Cut & Color

Vanity Hair Studio NYC