As the holidays dance by and the new year approaches, it’s natural for thoughts to go over years past and to think of all the other holidays, and all the other new years. This year, we’re wrapping up a whole decade that we’re so grateful for, both as a salon and as individuals.
In the midst of the chaos, we wanted to give you a few moments of gratitude, so we asked some of our top stylists to talk about the things that they’re grateful for in their lives. We hope you enjoy.
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Hauns Korpela
Upper West Side
What are you grateful for?
I am grateful for this unexpected life. I came from a town of less than 300 people and am now living in NYC with a career that has allowed me to travel the world and work with amazing people.
Who has helped you become the person you are?
My mom, a teacher in high school named Donna Milner, the founder of Aveda Horst Rechelbacher, and my friend and boss Scott Buchanan.
What’s the top thing that you’d thank them for?
Each of them has been my biggest cheerleader at different points of my life. They helped me discover so much about who I am and what I am capable of in my life. They elevated me to be the best me, by being the best mentors-by-example one could wish for.
What do you love about being a hairstylist?
We make people feel better every day we do our job. I get to work with hairdressers from all over the world, and no matter where I am or where they are from, I find we all share this special bond of who we are as a people. Hairdressers have this understanding or sensibility that is filled with humor, expectancy and protection of each other in this crazy shared experience we have, standing behind a chair and giving to others.
Who/what inspires you as an artist?
My life experiences are what drive my inspiration. A move, a moment or a person can push me to see something in a way that drives me to create. My goal is to always draw out an emotion from others when they see my work. Regardless of what emotion it is, it excites me to see something awaken in their reactions.
What are you looking forward to in 2020?
This year, I did something I never thought I would do, and bought a house. I am looking forward to that moment when I open the door for the first time and watch my dogs run outside without a harness and leash—seeing their joy and freedom in having that yard.
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Kristen Glynn
Upper West Side
What are you grateful for?
I’m grateful for my health and the health of my family, and for an amazing group of friends. ❤️
Who has helped you become the person you are?
I would have to say my mama. She was and still is always there for me and my family.
What’s the top thing that you’d thank them for?
For being the most selfless, giving person I have ever met, and for making me the woman I am today.
What do you love about being a hairstylist?
There are so many reasons to love this career! I love making someone look AND feel great, pretty much instantly. I love being able to work a full-time schedule in three days, and then have plenty of time to take care of my family. I love that I can take this craft anywhere I go. And I love where I am a hairstylist—I work with and for some of the BEST people, and that always makes for a positive work life!!
Who/what inspires you as an artist?
I love observing characters on tv shows and in movies. I’m always checking out and admiring the hair, especially when it is from a different era.
What are you looking forward to in 2020?
Well, with what hairstyling has afforded me, I’m looking forward to cooking in my newly renovated kitchen!!! And, of course…Disney.
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Dawn Schenk
Upper East Side
What are you grateful for?
I am grateful for my family, which includes my dog, Schatzi. I am also grateful for the opportunities that I have had over the years to build my career, not just behind the chair, but also out in the field teaching other artists.
Who has helped you become the person you are, and what’s the top thing that you’d thank them for?
In my early years, it was my mom and my grandparents on my mom’s side. They set the example of what kind of relationships I wanted later in life, and instilled my work ethic. My husband has helped me grow as an adult. He has taught me patience, and has such a strong work ethic. He is the best partner in this life that I could ever dream of.
What do you love about being a hairstylist?
I love to help people feel beautiful. Even the most gorgeous of people do not always feel beautiful.
Who/what inspires you as an artist?
Inspiration is everywhere—you just have to look for it. I love the changing of the leaves in fall…I get most of my inspiration from nature.
What are you looking forward to in 2020?
Working hard and playing hard! The boat can go into the water in April! 😊