thom. welcomes Senior Men's Stylist Janelle Pearce

t. When did you get into hair?

J.

I’ve been interested in hair from an early age. I was lucky enough to have friends and family to practice on. I was inspired to continue growing my skillset professionally after graduating from high school in 2003. A well-known salon was hiring apprentices at the same time that I was looking. Fate?

t. What got you into hair?

J.

I was at the right place at the right time. Like most great things in life, it happened naturally and continues to open doors of opportunity for me. I’ve had a blast learning new techniques, sharing my skill sets, and creating my take on classic styles.

t. Where did you learn hair?

J.

I received my first real exposure to the industry as an apprentice at Zazou Salon. I dedicated 2 years to learning and growing as a professional before enrolling in John Casablancas Axis Academy. As part of my schooling, I was able to take advantage of a work experience program that helped me land an assistant position at Toni & Guy (T&G). T&G really helped foster my development and allowed me to come into my own. After a year of training and developing, I was able to learn how to perfect the 14 essential T&G haircuts. Fast forward 5 years, I was looking for something different.. Queue the beats, “Barber school”. I enrolled in the old-school barber program at London School. While at London School, I learned the fundamentals of barbering, along with the importance of precision while fading and shaving. With a strong background of experience in hair styling and a solid understanding of the being a barber, along with a passion for ‘No bad vibes’, I think I’m a confident balance of barber/stylist.

t. Where have you worked?

J.

For the past 6 years, I have worked at Man Up Grooming as the head barber/stylist. My previous experience includes working at Zazou Salon and Toni & Guy.

t. What was your education in hair like?

J.

I love to learn. Being taught new techniques and remixing them to be my own continues to be my favorite part. With no room for error, the training I received at Toni & Guy was quite intense and, honestly, essential in my everyday work ethic and discipline. I truly believe in the power of apprenticeships. I feel that any hair professional can easily benefit from the experience and exposure.

 

” With men’s hair styles continuously progressing, the industry is constantly evolving. Using a blow dryer and multiple products can sound like work and I’m here to prove that it doesn’t have to be…”

 

t. Why men’s hair?

J.

Not all men’s hair is created equal, sorry fellas. The days of one style and product have been long gone and I am here to help. With men’s hairstyles continuously progressing, the industry is constantly evolving. Using a blow dryer and multiple products can sound like work and I’m here to prove that it doesn’t have to be. Nothing is impossible with the right training and attitude. My goal is to marry guest satisfaction by providing the right tools and techniques to keep things looking great in-between visits.

t. What do you like about men’s hair?

J.

Most men are creatures of habit. I’m all about building trust and establishing lasting relationships. I believe in an organic experience and would never “push” a product or a style that I didn’t believe in. Nothing brings me greater joy in my profession than when someone says to me, ‘This is EXACTLY what I was looking for.’ For me, consultation is the most important part of the experience. Being comfortable in my chair leads to being happy with your hair. We are all unique and I understand that. I love the silhouette of a well-groomed man and the precision and detail that come with a men’s haircut.

t. What is your personal hair philosophy?

J. Look good, feel good.

t. Where do you see yourself going in hair?

J. The possibilities are endless. I would love to be able to combine my two true loves, hair and travel.

t. Any industry achievements?

J. Aside from my happy clients, I was dubbed Student of the Year at the 2005 Toni & Guy Photographic Awards, presented in Las Vegas.

t. What extra training you have received outside of the salon?

J.

I have attended many classes throughout my career. Most recently, I took a 2-day shaving and cutting course with the BBA (British Barbers Association) under the global brand ambassador, Gary Machin.

t. In your opinion what is the biggest “no-no” in men’s hair?

J.

A hair cut that takes too much work is always a ‘no-no’ for me. Going against what the hair naturally wants to do would be a close second. That being said, it all comes down to personal preference and style.

t. How should guys be wearing their hair today?

J.

Personally, I’m liking longer lengths on men today, stepping away from the fade. Guys should confidently embrace, and appreciate, their natural hair and texture. Trying new products and tools is always a great way to achieve new looks.

t. What are your hobbies/interests?

J.

I love to travel. I have visited 24 countries and have lived abroad in Northern Ireland, England, and Australia. I enjoy losing myself in a new city and submerging myself in the culture. I have a not-so-secret love of craft beers. While traveling, I try to make it a point to visit at least 5 breweries. Some of my favorites have been in San Diego, Portland, and Bellingham. I have also recently gotten into HIT workouts, shout out to Orange Theory!

 

Janelle is available for appointments Tuesday through Saturday. 

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