On July 13, 2008, Allen Ruiz passed the NAHA crown of Hairstylist of the Year to Charlie Price. Here, he reflects on his year-long reign.
What was it like to win Hairstylist of the Year at NAHA 18? I'd never entered before, but I'd been to a few of the shows as an attendee. It was like a big surprise. It was surreal and I didn't know what to expect. Everything was happening so fast, like it was on auto pilot.
What did it mean to you personally? I don't know what it felt like, it's hard to explain, especially since this was something I've never experienced before. I sat in the back as an attendee and just dreamed about what it would feel like to win. It was a huge achievement for me personally; this was something I had set out to do. I wanted to have the best models, photographers, etc. and was trying to plan it all out, but honestly it just came down to doing it.
What is your life like a year after winning Hairstylist of the Year? It took a while for it to sink in, but it's been a great year. I wouldn't say it's life-altering, but it's changed the way I look at things. I look at magazines, clients, make up, etc. differently. It's got me in tune to the creative aspect of my products, clients and other things around me. I'm becoming more aware of my surroundings and thinking about my next photo shoot and entry.
What was it like to come back to work after winning Hairstylist of the Year? It was great. I went on a little shopping spree and bought myself a nice watch I wear everyday to remind myself of the hard work I put into it. I felt I deserved it. I also had a party with my staff and we were able to just share the excitement together.
How did your salon react to your win? My team was ecstatic. They really understood how hard work and dedication can pay off. Yes, I have a full-time clientele and own two salons, but it was really my team who saw the pay off in this.
Were you able to raise your prices? I waited a year to raise my prices on my existing clients, but anyone who was new I raised the prices for them.
What kind of recognition did you get from your local community? A city council member presented me with a proclamation that was signed by the major. I was recognized during a city council member meeting. I was also mentioned in the local paper and they did a wonderful story on me.
At the end of the conversation, Allen had a few last words to share: Get the NAHA DVD v2.0! It might sound like a sales pitch, but it makes sense and it works. It is a great starting point if you have nowhere else to start and it was my starting point. It gives you great tips and tricks that you may not have thought of on your own. You should also have your staff watch it, especially if they're involved in the photo shoot or are considering doing it next year.