Today we’d like to introduce you to Ayumi Matsunami.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Ayumi. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Ever since I was little, I have always been into art, whether it was coloring or folding origami cranes with my mom. However, if you asked teenage me if I saw myself becoming a hairstylist I would’ve probably told you no because I would much rather be the one getting my hair done. I remember having the biggest smile on my face when my mom finally agreed to let me go to an actual salon for bright red highlights. I couldn’t help but just stare at my new hair for hours and hours in the mirror! In the end, it was that exact feeling that drew me into the industry; creating something that makes my clients feel like the best possible versions of themselves.
When I first enrolled in cosmetology school, I had my 9-month-old son to consider so I chose to go through the part-time program which would take two years. Looking back, it was such a great decision for so many reasons but the most being that I was able to take that extra time to really learn the industry and put in more hours on the technical aspects of doing hair. I graduated at the top of my class and to this day, education is such a crucial element of who I am as a stylist. I take pride in not only taking classes with current color trends but also getting certified through renowned brands such as Redken to give my clients the best service.
Has it been a smooth road?
Being in the part-time program, there were times when it felt long and never-ending; especially seeing multiple full-time classes come and go and graduate before me. Thankfully, I had an amazing support system of educators as well as classmates who kept me motived and believed in me when I felt I was losing myself a little bit. Being there part time and with the same small class for two years, I quickly learned how important the salon environment would be when the time came to decide where I wanted to work. At Michael Anthony Salon, I’ve found a life long family where everyone is supportive and willing to share their knowledge which can be hard to come by in this competitive industry. I always want my clients to feel comfortable changing up their looks with me (but sometimes it’s not a smooth road) so it’s nice knowing I have talented coworkers by my side to bounce ideas off of.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I have been a stylist at Michael Anthony Salon for five years now and I specialize in lived-in color, natural highlights, balayage, and sun-kissed hair. In 2017, I became one of eight Redken Balayage Certified Colorist in the nation. I really take pride in perfecting my craft and truly understanding the why and how behind the color.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
One thing I love about the hair industry is that it’s constantly changing and growing; it keeps me on my toes! I think balayage will always be a trend because of how low maintenance it is as a color but also because it looks great on anyone regardless of hair color or length. It’s a great way to personalize a color to your client’s look and lifestyle. However, when it comes to new trends, I always keep an eye out during award shows to see what’s up and coming.
Contact Info:
- Address: 14487 Big Basin Way
Saratoga, CA 95070 - Website: themichealanthonysalon.com
- Phone: (408)741-1115
- Email: hairbyayumi@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/hairbyayumi
Image Credit:
Sarahi Hadden
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