Bella Bethesda Gives Back During a Celebration of Hair Through the Years

On Thursday, November 11, Bella Bethesda Salon pulled its talented staff together to host Hair & Now, a unique, high-glam runway show featuring looks from the Roaring Twenties through the 21st century.

Over 40 models hit the stage for a dazzling show complete with men’s, women’s and bridal styles. Set to mood music channeling each era, Bella Bethesda showcased it’s talents through classic recreations of eras past like bobs, pin curls and a killer Mohawk.

Although hair, makeup and fashion were the focus of the main event, the true purpose behind the party was to bring awareness to a wonderful organization in Washington, D.C. called N Street Village.

N Street Village offers a safe, empowering community for women facing homelessness, poverty, and related challenges such as mental illness, addiction, and chronic health problems. The organization currently serves nearly 900 women each year, providing services that include housing, mental health therapy, physical health and wellness programs, job training, and support for basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter.

Ticket sales and proceeds from Hair & Now helped Bella Bethesda donate $2,500 to this great nonprofit. We thank those who signed up for the Help the Homeless Walkathon as N Street Village supporters and to everyone for taking the time learn more about our special beneficiaries.

Our partnership and commitment to N Street Village didn’t end on the 11th. Bella Bethesda pledges to provide a future donation to N Street Village and is also looking into ways to get involved at their DC facility. As a women-owned business, we are great champions of N Street Village’s mission and the work they do. We look forward to what’s in store with this great relationship and involving you, our clients, in the process.

To learn more about N Street Village please visit http://www.nstreetvillage.org/.

*Photos by Brooke Bready

Reinventing the haircut

Going to a salon and asking for a completely new look is not for everyone. At Bella Bethesda, we believe what makes a great salon experience is achieving a look that is functional, desirable and manageable for each client. While we continue to learn new techniques and styles, we always remember that enhancing our existing skills is the key to improving your experience each time you sit in the stylist chair.

This was the approach Bella stylist, Megan Atkinson, took when visiting our neighbors to the north in July. For five days, Megan attended a Vidal Sassoon Creative Cutting course in Toronto, Canada. It was here that she learned new techniques to help give every client an updated haircut in lieu of making drastic changes. “Rather than learning how to mimic a popular celebrity trend, this class taught the dynamics needed to update an existing style to make it more functional and manageable without structurally changing the outcome,” said Megan.

With every cut, how the hair is cut is dependent on the desired outcome of the individual and their lifestyle needs. While there are clients who look for total transformations when they visit the salon, the majority wishes just to freshen their look and the techniques provide do just that. The focus of this class was not how to reinvent a person’s look but rather make it more their own. Megan left with a cache of tips that help improve the intricacy of every cut to make it truly unique.

Megan believes hands-on-learning is a must and this class gave her the ability to test her new knowledge while still facing real life expectations. Check out Megan’s work:

Since returning, Megan has put many techniques into practice to deliver all types of great cuts from bobs to curly looks. Want to learn more or make an appointment with Megan? Call Bella Bethesda at 301-718-9111.

Weekly Featured Product: Phytomist

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Ngoc

It’s officially fall in the Washington DC area but the leaves may not be the only thing changing colors. In addition to getting the perfect Halloween costume this season, you may also be opting for warmer tones to sport a killer hue too! Whether you choose a vivacious red or a sultry brown don’t forget the tricks and treats to keep your hair looking fabulous well into the holiday season. One treat to try is Phytomist, a weightless leave-in conditioner that detangles, boosts radiance and protects color. Loaded with natural ingredients like sunflower extract (to prevent fading and protect against oxidation), lotus flower (to hydrate and soften) and red algae (to protect against environmental stresses) this product will restore your locks’ moisture and brilliance in no time.

To use, simply spray into towel dried hair and use a wide tooth comb to distribute from root to end. (Remember- never brush wet hair!) This product is great to use every day and with all hair types and textures.

Now through next Tuesday, October 19, visit Bella Bethesda to purchase Phytomist and save $5. Don’t miss the chance to get this great product. One lucky individual will also be chosen next week to take home this product for free! Like this post on Facebook for your chance to win!

Introducing: Weekly Featured Tool

New this week! We love bringing you a new product each week so much we’re expanding to highlight Bella Bethesda’s favorite hair tools. So without further ado, we introduce our inaugural weekly featured tool…

This week’s featured tool: Elchim 2001 Blow Dryer (Winner of the Allure Best of Beauty Award)
Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Cintia

With the lazy summer days coming to an end and between getting the kids to school, your job, and the countless after school activities, ‘the heat is on’. Good thing Elchim’s 2001 Blow Dryer means business. This fabulous tool offers seven speeds and temperatures so blow drying your hair will be one less thing to worry about. Perfect for all hair types (remember to use a diffuser to enhance curls!), the Elchim 2010 cuts down blow dry time – meaning you’ll be ready to face the morning rush in no time. To use, apply a heat protective product to hair prior to blow dry and rough dry with a towel to remove excess moisture. Section hair and use a round brush, always directing heat in a downward motion. Professional tip when using this tool: use a nozzle when drying hair straight. This will help direct heat as well as protect hair from touching any part of the blow dryer.

Now through October 31 enjoy a complimentary blow dry lesson when you purchase this great tool (retail price is $128.00) at Bella Bethesda Salon.

Weekly featured product: Moroccan Oil Luminous Hairspray

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Corey

Fall is just around the corner (2 days to be exact!) While we love crisp air and crunchy leaves those are two words we never want our hair to be. With Moroccan Oil Luminous Hairspray your hair will have a light and finished look minus the crunch and stickiness. Perfect for all hair types, this product is great for hold and a touch of shine whether you are tailgating, heading to the pumpkin patch, or rocking a killer Halloween costume. To use, spray on dry hair. Stylist secret- this product is great before applying heat such as a flat iron or curling iron.

Show us how much you love this product by liking this week's post on Facebook. You could be the lucky winner and take this product home for free.

Weekly Featured Product: Redken Guts 10 Volume Spray Foam

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Brittany
To take on the big city, sometimes it takes a little extra dose of confidence, but you’ve got it handled and with Redken Guts 10 Volume Spray Foam so does your hair. Formulated for all hair types, your hairstyle will have what it needs to stay intact and in control. Formulated for all hair types, your hairstyle has what it takes to stay intact and in control. For all day fullness and flexibility, shake well and spray throughout towel-dried hair. For a more intense pick-me-up, separate hair into sections and apply directly to roots. Still in need of some extra oomph? Blow dry while using a round brush. With this spray mousse, your hair dares to be bold but won’t be weighed down or stiff.

Want to score this confidence boost for free? Like this post on Bella's Facebook page and be entered for the chance to take home this product. Winner will be announced next week.

Weekly Featured Product: Moroccan Oil Hydrating Styling Cream

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Indira

According to the unofficial calendar, there’s one weekend left to enjoy the summer. This Labor Day, celebrate your hard work and kick up your feet for some R&R. Between lounging by the pool and hosting a BBQ, remember to recognize the hard work your hair puts in all year round. Between flat irons, blow dryers, and elements like sun and chlorine, your hair can always use some special attention. With Moroccan Oil Hydrating Style Cream blow drying is a cinch and your hair will love you. This non-greasy product hydrates locks leaving them frizz free and shiny. Your hair will be in tip-top shape leaving more time to focus on what’s really important- ending the summer with a bang! To use, apply a small amount to damp hair and blow dry. Remember, this product is very concentrated so don’t use too much.

There are only 6 days left until Labor Day and to score this great product. "Like" this post and you'll be automatically entered to win a full-size bottle for free. Stay tuned when we reveal the lucky winner next week!

Weekly Featured Product: Redken Velvet Gelatine 07

Product on tap: Redken Velvet Gelatine 07

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Demetrios

At Bella Bethesda we have a sweet tooth- who doesn't enjoy a little indulgence now and then? In fact, in the world of products, look at Redken Velvet Gelatine 07 as chocolate for your hair.

Want to go straight? This light gel delivers the perfect airy blowout. Like your favorite cocoa candy, this product melts into your hair for a silky finish with a scent you can't beat. To use, apply a medium-size amount through damp hair and blow dry. Don't wait too long to enjoy this sweet treat and apply heat immediately so the product does not harden. With Velvet Gelatine 07 you're minutes from soft hair that's full of body.

Now's your chance to score this great product. "Like" this post and you'll be automatically entered to win a full-sized tube for free. Stay tuned when we reveal the lucky winner next Monday!

Weekly Featured Product: Phyto 9

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Katie

You've heard of Love Potion #9, right? Well think of Phyto 9 as your hair's true love. Your locks, especially if curly, will be head over heels after experiencing this product. Loaded with eight nourishing plant extracts and macadamia oil, this leave-in treatment will have your hair re-hydrated with locked in protection in no time. After shampoo, place a dime size amount to towel dried hair and massage until fully absorbed. While styling, remember to show some extra love to your ends. In a hurry? This weightless cream can be applied to dry hair to help smooth and reduce frizz.

Do you have a favorite product at Bella Bethesda? We want to hear from you. If you "like" Phyto 9, simply show us on Facebook and you could take home this great product for FREE. Show your love all week long and check back next Tuesday, August 24 when we will post the lucky winner.

What you need to know about this product: Adds softness and shine, treats split ends

Happy Curly Hair Month at Bella Bethesda!

At Bella Bethesda, we're crazy for curls. From tight coils to beach waves, we can't get enough.

As August kicks off so does Bella Bethesda's third annual Curly Hair Month. We know the summer can leave your hair frizzy, unruly and dried out so we invite you to join our curly hair gurus to discover the unique formula that will keep your locks looking fresh and fabulous no matter what the season.

All month long, we welcome you to enjoy a complimentary 30 minute consultation to learn the tips and tricks to manage and enhance your curls. Consultation includes a wash andstyle meaning you'll leave the salon not only looking great but with personalized instructions to recreate killer looks at home.

Have questions? Our trained team of curl experts will address any curl concerns you may have so call the salon at 301-718-9111 to book your consultation today.

If that's not a sweet enough deal, through Tuesday, August 31st buy any two Redken products and you'll receive one product FREE. Stock up on your favorite curl creams, sprays and serums or take home the products used during your consultation. Don't forget, Bella offers a money back guarantee on all product purchases!

We look forward to seeing you (and your curls) in the salon this month!

Curls not your style?
We welcome you to book a free 15 minute consultation with one ofour experts before Sept. 30 to learn about the variety of straightening optionsavailable at Bella.At checkout, bookyour straightening service and receive a $50 couponto save onthe treatment that best fits your needs! Click here for more details.

Weekly Featured Product: Redken's Ringlet 07 Curl Perfector

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Tania

Considering a trip to the beach to find the perfect wave? Look no further than your own gorgeous head of hair. With Redken's Ringlet 07 Curl Perfector, your coils are absolutely eye catching. Using this curl refining cream-gel, your waves will be nothing short of frizz-free and crunch-free perfection. Redken's unique bonding system works overtime blocking humidity and energizing your curls to keep them bouncy all day long. This product is the ultimate sidekick for medium to coarse hair types. To condition, apply a nickel size amount evenly to towel dried hair and let air dry. Want to give your waves some pizzazz while shielding them from heat damage? Try using a hair diffuser to dry your curls! Now through the end of August we are celebrating Curly Hair Month at Bella Bethesda. Stop by the salon through August 31 to purchase 2 Redken products and receive your third product, of equal or lesser value, FREE.

What you need to know about this product: Conditions and calms frizz

Complete Control

With the humidity DC has experienced this summer, it’s easy to feel like you have no control over your locks. Not anymore!

Bella Bethesda stylist, Demetrios, decided to take matters into his own hands and was recently certified in Liscio, a Japanese straightening treatment. Demetrios now has the skills needed to provide his clients with the ultimate control over their hair and kick that extra volume and frizz to the curb.

To earn this certification, Demetrios jetted off to the Big Apple for a day-long course where he and 40 other stylists learned the ins and outs of the Liscio Japanese Thermal Straightener.

During this course, Demetrios placed extra emphasis on improving how he assesses clients’ hair prior to applying treatment. “This is an invaluable portion of the course and an important step in the straightening service. A full understanding of each client’s hair history is key because if the client has had any previous chemical treatments you may not be able to proceed.” said Demetrios.

The Liscio straightener is great for taming frizz, controlling coils, or achieving pin straight hair. “When done properly, results are pretty amazing,” said Demetrios.

Prior to his certification, Demetrios carefully observed colleagues to master the various techniques as well as learn more about the additional straighteners available at the salon. But, because client satisfaction is the top priority for Demetrios he wanted to take the extra step and become certified to deliver truly top-notch results.

To learn more about fantastic straightening treatments available at Bella Bethesda or book an appointment with Demetrios call (301) 718-9111. Don’t forget! Check out the Bella Bethesda website for ways to save big on straightening services through October 31.

Hope to see you in the salon soon!

Weekly Featured Product: Redken Blown Away Protective Blow Dry Gel

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Abby

If you're in the DC area, chances are that your hair is getting more than its fair share of heat. While it may be hot, hot, hot in the city, Redken's got your hair covered with its Blown Away Protective Blow Dry Gel to help fight the heat of your blow dryer. This unique, textured gel not only delivers a much sleeker and healthier blow out but offers all day protection against thermal damage while infusing hair with natural shine. The added bonus- this product leaves hair with all day style and frizz control. There's only one more month to enjoy the endless days of summer and with this product you'll also enjoy endless days of style (no matter what the season). To, use simply apply a nickel-sized amount to damp hair. For best results, blow dry hair in sections until desired style has been achieved. In need of some extra oomph? Use a round brush at the root to kick up your volume. Now through Monday, August 9 buy 2 Redken products and receive one for FREE. Stop by Bella Bethesda Salon all week long to stock up!

What you need to know about this product: Stress-free blow drying

Save BIG on Straightening Services at Bella Bethesda Salon

Thank you to all those who joined us for our inaugural online event, Straight to the Point. We hope you learned more about the straightening treatments available at Bella Bethesda and had all of your straight hair questions answered.

For those who participated, remember to use the promotional code shared during this session to receive a special gift. If you weren't able to join, check out this blog entry to get details on how to score free products!

In honor of our straight hair celebration, we invite everyone to book a complimentary 15 minute consultation with one of our trained stylists before September 30. Following your consultation, book your straightening appointment at checkout and receive a $50 coupon! (Offer valid for services totaling $300 or more. Expires October 31, 2010). Call the salon at 301-718-9111 to reserve your consultation today!

Stay tuned for more details as we switch gears to celebrate our third annual Curly Hair Month in August. Call the salon to book your complimentary curly hair consultation with one of our curl experts all month long. And don't forget- visit the Bella Bethesda website and Facebook page for updates, promotions and so much more.

We hope to see you in the salon soon,

Stacy, Lindsey and the stylists at Bella Bethesda Salon

Weekly Featured Product: Redken Spray Starch 15 Memory Styler

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Abby

The DC weather keeps bringing the heat. It's time for your hair to show this city what it's made of! With Redken Spray Starch 15 Heat Memory Styler, your hair can withstand even the 100 degree (and rising) humidity. Whether you're trying to curl, crimp, or straighten your locks, this heat styler is the perfect sidekick to combat heat and humidity. This great product uses potato starch to protect your hair against heat and cuticle loss. It mimics heat appliances by "starching in" long-lasting protection to keep your style intact all day and leave your hair shiny and flexible. Redken Spray Starch 15 Heat Memory Styler is perfect for those with medium to coarse hair. Simply spray evenly onto damp hair. For best results, divide hair into thin sections and apply individually to ensure even coverage. Now through the end of the week, stop by Bella Bethesda to pick up this hair-saving product and your other favorite Redken products. Purchase one product to receive 10% off, two products for 20% off, and three or more products for 30% off!

What you need to know about his product: Provides all day style and frizz control

Weekly Featured Product: Phyto Pro Curl Energizing Cream

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Boy Sharp

Backyard cookouts, weekends at the beach, happy hours after work- summer activities are endless in DC! But with all that time spent outdoors, the heat and humidity can take a big toll on your hair. Give your curls a boost of energy to take on the city (and humidity) with Phyto Pro Curl Energizing Cream. This soft hold cream is great for anyone with loose waves to crazy coils. The acacia collagen moisturizes your hair, protecting it from heat damage, and smoothes frizz to give your curls a healthy bounce. Apply to towel dried or dry hair as a leave in treatment. Kick up your style by applying heat with a thermal diffuser or blow dryer. Remember, when using Phyto Pro Curl Energizing Cream less is more, so avoid excess. Stop by Bella Bethesda through Monday, July 26 to receive $5 off this great product.

What you need to know about this product: Provides thermal protection and is alcohol free.

Straight to the Point

Let’s face it, we love summer but hate the hair woes we suffer during the hot and humid months. Humidity can weigh hair down, not to mention cause frizz, and many of us often pack away our straightening tools until cooler weather is in sight. But don’t fret; at Bella Bethesda Salon we have the solution!

What better way to beat the heat (both from UV rays and styling tools) than with a straightening treatment? With one of Bella Bethesda’s treatments you can achieve sleek and easy to maintain straight hair all year long. And with the recent extreme heat there's no better time.

We know your schedules are tight, so we’re bringing our next event directly to you! Join us Wednesday, July 28 from 12:00-1:00pm for a live online chat with straightening expert, Megan Atkinson. She’ll provide insight about the treatment options available at the salon, share secrets to getting great straight looks and answer all your questions.

Weekly Featured Product: Aerate 08 Bodifying Cream-Mousse

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this: Lindsey

Don't let the summer elements hold you down! With Redken's Aerate 08 Bodifying Cream-Mousse your hair is a force to be reckoned with- not even the DC humidity stands a chance. This volumizing mousse is uniquely designed to give your hair airy volume and healthy shine. Aerate is great for all hair types- for fine hair apply a dime size amount onto damp hair and for medium to coarse hair use a quarter size. Fox extra body and fullness, blow dry hair after use. The Cellulose combined with the UV filter keeps your hair protected from sun damage, while giving it featherweight volume so you can truly beat the heat. Through July 31, stop by Bella Bethesda to pick up this hair-saving product and your other favorite Redken products and you'll receive 10% off the purchase of one product, 20% off two products, and 30% off three or more products!

What you need to know about this product: Conditions and gives volume to your hair while providing lasting shape.

One Size Does Not Fit All

Creating looks that capture a person's unique beauty is quite a skill. In the world of hair, one size does not fit all and each look must be tailored to highlight each individual's features. Ricardo, a Bella Bethesda stylist, understands that there's a unique formula behind every updo and recently attended a class taught by long-hair expert, Martin Parsons. What was Ricardo's goal for the two-day class? To strengthen his skills to best customize the perfect updo for each client that sits in his chair.

Only a hop, skip and a jump away in Baltimore, Ricardo and fellow stylists learned the tricks to Parsons' renowned techniques and incredible hairstyles. The class focused on 16 looks and provided insight on how to create gorgeous styles for all occasions including black-tie events, weddings, and proms in just fifteen minutes.

During this fast-paced course, stylists practiced cutting edge tricks such as knotting, lacing, and folding. Furthermore, stylists learned how to train their clients to prepare their hair before coming to the salon in effort to make them a part of the styling process.

With a background in engineering, Ricardo is able to provide his clients with a unique outlook. "Design with a purpose" is his motto. "I can look at something in a mathematical way and determine what will look best based on proportion and color balance," said Ricardo.

Using this viewpoint, he is able to provide a thorough consultation and achieve a personalized look for each client. Following this first updo class, Ricardo is excited to continue learning and to be a part of his clients' special occasions.

To learn more about the art of updos or to schedule an appointment with Ricardo please call (301) 718-9111.

Weekly Featured Product: Phyto Professional Matte Texturizing Paste

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Megan

What makes this product so special? That's simple. Its ingerdients because they're just that- simple. Like the traditional Phyto products, the new Phyto Professional line features products made with the finest plant ingredients such as acacia collagen (AKA vegetable collagen) which not only hydrates but protects hair from the everyday elements. The natural collagen not only protects your hair but gives it an extra dose of texture and definition and especially in the summer- when hair can become limp as a result of humidity- you may need an extra boost. This product is great for all hair types and provides a medium hold while thickening your strands. Emulsify a nickel size amount in your hands and style with your fingers. Use this to finish your look without being sticky or crunchy. Starting today, stop by Bella Bethesda Salon to receive $5.00 off Phyto Professional Matte Texturizing Paste until Monday, July 12.

What you need to know about this product:

This product will deliver separation, definition and texture

Free Phyto Treatments July 15 & 16!

It's the summertime, which means it's time for you and your hair to get some needed R&R- rest and rehydration- and Bella Bethesda Salon has the perfect solution.

With the help of our friends at Phyto, we'd like to invite you to treat your hair to Phytherapie on Thursday, July 15 and Friday, July 16. From 12pm-7pm swing by the salon and join a Phyto representative and the Bella Bethesda stylists for a complimentary hair and scalp analysis and customized botanical hair treatment. Trust us, your locks will thank you. (Add a blow dry for $30!)

Don't wait! Call Bella Bethesda at 301-718-9111 to book your appointment today!

Why Cut?

Whether you're searching for a trendy cut or just updating your traditional look, having a hairstyle that suites you is important. But, fabulous looks are an art form. In fact, the best ones come from hairstylists who understand not just the how, but the why behind cutting techniques. So, last week Bella Bethesda stylists, Tania and Katie, hit up NYC for a back-to-basics course with Redken called "Cut and Know Why".

Tania did not have the traditional training most stylists do. With her natural ability, she was able to learn by example, from a family of hairstylists, and received her certification from mentors and on-floor experience. This class was a great refresher course for Tania, focusing on the fundamentals of cutting that are so essential to crafting any great look. The instructors began by breaking down the cutting process for the stylists and forced them to focus on individual skills in order to perfect their technique.

Through this hands-on course stylists were able to gain consultation experience as well; learning how to utilize face structure as a guideline for giving the client a cut that works well with their face shape.

Because Tania would like to be an instructor in the future, she said the most valuable take-away from the class was understanding why she uses the techniques she does. This will enable her to be a better communicator not only with clients, but also with future apprentices and assistants.

"[They] motivate me to become a great hairdresser. Redken makes you want to learn and do more within the industry," said Tania.

Katie also thrived off the high energy environment provided by Redken. Each morning of the four-day course, stylists were greeted by enthusiastic instructors excited to dive in. Being Katie's first experience at Redken, she left with a well-rounded understanding of what goes into creating a complete look.

The course also equipped stylists with simple ways to change their techniques, enabling them to work faster and more efficiently thus providing clients with better results. As stylists were walked through the step-by-step process, no detail was forgotten. Each part was broken down for them to ensure their technique was perfect- even down to their posture.

So, what's Katie's greatest take-away from the course? A face-framing technique. "It's perfect every time, I don't ever need to go back through and touch up," said Katie. She loves it so much that she immediately started using it on clients upon her return and has received great feedback!

Because Katie had such a positive experience with Redken, next on the agenda are two more Redken classes: a color class in October and another cutting class in January. She is looking towards a Design Certification in the near future to become a recommended stylist on the Redken website.

If you would like to learn more about the basics of cutting or to set up an appointment with Tania or Katie please call (301) 718-9111. We hope to see you in the salon soon!

Weekly Featured Product: Redken Clean Spice 2-in-1 Conditioning Shampoo

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Sandy

"Efficiency" is the name of the game. You don't have time to be juggling a bunch of products between your back-to-back meetings and your softball game. With Redken for Men's Clean Spice 2-in-1 Conditioning Shampoo you aren't wasting any time. Simply apply to wet hair, lather, rinse and you are ready to go! This convenient product disciplines even the hardest-to-manage hair with spice-fused technology. It both revitalizes the senses and stimulates the scalp with cedar spice fragrances. Let Redken save some time so you can focus on the more important things in life- and still keep your hair looking healthy! Starting today, stop by Bella Bethesda Salon to receive 20% off Redken for Men's Clean Spice 2-in-1 Conditioning Shampoo until Monday, June 28.

What you need to know about this product:

Hair is stronger, smoother and polished

Half off Men's Haircuts at Bella Bethesda

It's no secret- at Bella Bethesda we love all hair! However, there's a special place in our hearts for the Bella Bethesda men and with Father's Day right around the corner, what better time to show our appreciation?

To celebrate the holiday, we'd like to offer 50% off men's haircuts from Sunday, June 20th through Sunday, July 11th for existing and new male clients. Yes you heard that right, half off all men's cuts with any of Bella Bethesda's talented stylists (based on their availability). Call the salon at 301-718-9111 to reserve your spot!

For her: Looking for the perfect gift for dad or another special guy? Bella Bethesda specializes in men's looks from sporty to spiky, faux hawks to formal. Our stylists regularly attend classes focused on precision cuts and trendy looks and will have your guy looking dashing in no time. Order gift cards here!

For him: Go ahead, treat yourself! Whether you're a dad, granddad or just want to freshen up your look, we welcome you to stop by the salon all month long and enjoy the extreme savings.

But that's not it! Starting this week, join us on the Bella Bethesda Facebook page as we highlight a special product each week. On tap this month are a variety of men's products available for purchase at the salon. Also, be on the lookout for the premier Bella Bethesda men's look book. It's loaded with the latest trends and showcases the skill of Bella's men's hair experts.

We hope to see you guys (and gals) in the salon soon.

Happy Father's Day!

Stacy, Lindsey and the Bella Bethesda staff

Weekly Featured Product: Redken Work Hard Molding Paste

Bella Bethesda expert who recommends this great product: Demetrios

You live life by the motto “work hard, play harder” and with Redken’s Work Hard Molding Paste for men your cut will look perfect all day long. This product is great with any and all hair types. Just pump a small size into the palm of your hand, emulsify and apply to wet or dry hair. Remember, less is more, so don’t overdo it. This product is great to achieve a firm hold but maintain that natural look you rock so well. Whether you are in the boardroom or grabbing a beer with the guys to watch the World Cup, Redken’s got your hair covered. Get this product FREE with a purchase of any men’s shampoo at Bella Bethesda Salon until Monday, June 21, 2010.

What you need to know about this product:
Maximum control
Added texture
Shape without shine

Redken’s Work Hard Molding Paste is valued at $10.95

May News from Bella Bethesda

Oil Spill Relief
Bella Bethesda is doing its part to aid the cleanup effort of the April 20th oil spill off the Gulf Coast. Now through June 6 Bella Bethesda will collect hair clippings to donate to Matter of Trust. Collected hair is woven into mats called "booms" and used to soak up excess oil. Click here to learn more about Matter of Trust.

Bella Bethesda Makeover
We love makeovers so much that we're revamping our look. The Bella Bethesda website is currently under construction as we prepare to reveal our new and improved look. We're making a few changes to kick up the level of interaction and enhance your online experience. Stay tuned for the grand debut!

Happy Bridal Season!
Bridal season is here and weekends are booking fast! At Bella Bethesda we love working with brides to create great hair and makeup wedding day looks. Our team of talented hair stylists and makeup artists can help you achieve a personalized look for your special day. Whether you have a specific style in mind or a look you would like to recreate, our expert stylists will work with you ensure all eyes are on you. No matter the season or type of hair there is a perfect style just for you. . Check out this year's bridal look book!

We Heart You: Mens Looks
At Bella Bethesda, we love our male clients and are dedicated to remaining on top of styling trends and cutting techniques to provide the best looks. We love mens' styles so much that we will premier our inaugural Mens Look Book in the coming weeks. In addition, to show our appreciation for our male clients and in the spirit of celebrating dads we'll offer a special promotion next month. More details to come.

The tallies are in!

At Bella Bethesda, we love giving back. And we’re so proud that our clients share the same commitment. As February kicked off this year so did a variety of charitable opportunities at Bella Bethesda. We were able to raise a significant of amount of money (and hair!) to help two very worthy organizations. Because of our clients’ support, we were able to donate $2,000 to World Vision and help children directly affected by the January 12 earthquake in Haiti. In addition, because of the kindness of 30 individuals who joined us for this year’s third annual Cut It For a Cause campaign we collected over 300 inches of hair to benefit the nonprofit organization Locks of Love. The hair donated will help create wigs for financially disadvantaged youth suffering from hair loss due to cancer, alopecia, burns and other related causes. A big thank you to our clients for the amazing generosity. We couldn’t have done it without you!

Love Always,
Stacy, Lindsey and the Bella Bethesda staff

May is Redken Month!

It’s a new month which means…drum roll please… a new promotion at Bella Bethesda Salon! Throughout the month of May it’s all about Redken. And with their formulated products for every hair type- from color treated to curly and even a line specialized for men- there’s a product for everyone at Bella Bethesda. Stop by the salon or consult with your stylist during your May appointment to find the Redken products perfect for you. It’s easy as 1, 2, 3….

In fact, when you buy:

1 Redken product you’ll save 10% off
2 Redken products you’ll save 20% off
3 Redken products (or more) you’ll save 30% off

Visit Bella Bethesda through Monday, May 31 to stock up and save big all month long on your favorite Redken products.

Celebrate Earth Day at Bella Bethesda Salon

Demetrios and the DL on summer looks from T&G

Spring is in full bloom (although it’s felt more like summertime these past few weeks) and the Bella Bethesda stylists are gearing up for the fun that's in store from wedding season, summer trends and of course the beautiful weather.

To prepare for the change in season and arm himself with the hottest new looks, Bella stylist Demetrios recently ventured to the TONI&GUY Academy, a premier hair cutting company, in New York City. For one week Demetrios learned new techniques for achieving the looks that will be all the rage as summer rolls in.

While Bella Bethesda stylists love to attend a variety of leading hair schools and connect with stylists from around the country, each school provides a different type of learning environment. Vidal Sassoon (which Abby attended earlier this year) is known for teaching blunt, geometric looks but at TONI&GUY, softer, piecy looks are the focus.

In terms of trends ,according to TONI&GUY, for women it’s all about maintenance and keeping it easy. For the girl on the go short, masculine-esque cuts are very in. If you prefer having length, lots of layering around the face and short bangs are great. For men, this summer the clean cut look will be the style of choice. Channeling the military’s buzz cut, looks that are very close to the head will be easy to maintain and #1 on the hot list.

To achieve such looks, stylists practiced a variety of cutting techniques such as:

• point cutting: holding the sheers parallel to hair and cutting into rather than across; provides loose, every day looks that are easy to maintain
• slide cutting: using sheers along hair without opening and closing them to cut; great for thick hair to remove excess weight
• razoring: often thought to be unhealthy for hair but when done properly achieves great looks

"The looks, although somewhat daring, are easily interchangeable,” said Demetrios. "Some of the more adventurous cuts are perfect for New York but here in DC, where hair tends to be more conservative and professional; the trends are still completely functional. The techniques I learned allow me to translate popular looks to fit my clients and their lifestyles.”

Since returning from this latest session, Demetrios has put many of the techniques into practice. Later this spring he will return to New York to attend a cut and color seminar at Redken.

Interested in learning more? Whether you want to know more about what looks will be in this summer or to schedule an appointment with Demetrios please call 301-718-9111. We hope to see you in the salon soon!

Bella Bethesda's Newest Junior Stylist

Abby Whalen has spent the last two years at Bella Bethesda Salon perfecting her skills and training to be a talented stylist. Many of you know her because of her tenure as Lindsey’s assistant to learn the tricks of the trade and hone her cut and coloring techniques.

Since her apprenticeship with Lindsey, Abby has taken on her own clients, including kids and teens, and has worked with our senior stylists to gain the experience and confidence to join our staff full time. And now, as February comes to a close, we can’t be more excited to have Abby complete her first month serving as a junior stylist at Bella Bethesda Salon!

It seems fitting that her transition to junior stylist culminated with an ABC Cutting Class with Vidal Sassoon, the preferred cutting techniques of her mentor Lindsey. For five days, Abby refreshed and refined her skills in sunny South Beach, Miami while working closely with the head educator Stephen Moody. Moody also serves as International Executive Director of Vidal Sassoon Education.

The class covered the techniques needed to master every type of haircut stylists may encounter from long hair to bobs, men to women. Real models were provided for the stylists to try out what they had learned but also allowed them to focus on their consultation and interpersonal skills.

“This class was great. Having watched Lindsey put the Vidal Sassoon techniques into action, this class really helped to bring together everything I have learned over the last few years. Now, I’m even more prepared to give great haircuts, no matter who sits in my chair. I am very excited to begin this next step in my career at Bella Bethesda.”

Although she will use the next few months to put these techniques to practice and take on new clients at the salon, Abby looks forward to expanding her education with more classes in the future.

If you would like to learn more about the Vidal Sassoon cutting techniques or to reserve your appointment with Abby please call 301.718.9111.

We hope to see you in the salon soon!

Bella Bethesda Celebrating Third Annual ‘Cut It For a Cause’ (FREE HAIRCUT!)

It’s that time of year again (and we don’t just mean Valentine’s Day). In the spirit of the month, we are asking for your help to spread the love by celebrating our third annual “Cut It For a Cause” campaign to benefit Locks of Love.

This week-long event has become an annual one at Bella Bethesda and we can’t thank you enough for the impact you have made over the last two years. Last year, we collected over 800 inches of hair and with your help hope to collect even more in 2010!

‘Cut It For a Cause’ kicks off this Sunday, February 7 and will continue through Sunday, February 14. All hair collected throughout the week will help provide hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children with medical hair loss due to disease, burns, and cancer. Bella Bethesda will also donate a portion of all product sales made throughout the week to Locks of Love.

Appointments still available!

Whether you have been growing your hair with the intention to donate or want to revamp your look with a drastic cut, we welcome you to the salon to show your support and receive a free haircut in the process! Those interested in donating must be able to give at least 10 inches of hair that has not been chemically treated or colored.

Not ready to donate? Come to Bella Bethesda throughout the week to sign our pledge board and receive your free hair cut later in the year when you have enough hair to donate.

To reserve your free hair cut please call Bella Bethesda at 301.718.9111. We hope to see you in the salon soon.

XO

Participate in Bella Bethesda Salon's Survey- Receive Special Discount!

If you have not heard, thanks to our great clients, we have once again been named 'Best Salon' in Bethesda by Bethesda Magazine - an honor we are very proud of. This is the second year in a row that we have achieved this recognition, and at the same time, we know that we need to continue to improve and provide even better service to you. By always finding ways to improve we will be even better able to offer an experience worthy of being called the best.

That is where we need your help. We need your feedback to help us assess how you think we are doing, what we could do better, and what changes you'd like to see in the coming year. By completing our short survey, you can give us that important perspective that we can turn into positive change in 2010. All you need to do is click on the link below to the 2010 Bella Bethesda Client Survey and answer a few questions as honestly as you can. For your time, we're offering a special discount for completing the survey. Just click the link for more details on the discount and to start taking the survey now.

Thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you in the salon soon!

Click here to take our survey!

The Science of Great Hair Color

Happy 2010! As the New Year kicks off, we are very excited to announce that Bella Bethesda has been named the best salon in Bethesda by Bethesda Magazine readers for the second year in a row (check out this month’s edition for more)! We can’t express our gratitude for your votes and support. With this title we’re reminded how important it is for our stylists to continually strengthen their skills, so that we can make every single one of your visits to Bella the best they can be!

Stylist Boy Sharp came back from California in August with a series of new cutting techniques, and most recently stylists Katie and Tania visited the Big Apple to work firsthand with leading experts on their coloring skills.

Katie spent two days at the Wella Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of NYC. And Tania, a few blocks away, attended a four-day class at the Redken 5th Avenue studio. To kick things off, the classes went back to basics and then worked with the stylists to build and improve their skills.

Because color does fade over time, Wella’s coloring class provided tips for extending the life of hair color. Katie learned that adding cellophane to color can make a big difference. Not only does it add tons of shine, it won’t damage your hair and will keep color locked in longer. Katie also learned about Wella’s relights system, which is perfect for touchups and grey hair. The relights mesh with existing color to refresh hair for a natural look. Katie loves relights so much that she’s used them on almost every color client since returning!

At Redken, Tania learned the science of color and strengthened her skills when it comes to giving a thorough consultation. During her class, stylists learned about the chemical components found in hair dyes and the importance of creating the perfect formula to achieve the right look. Stylists had the opportunity to work with real models to practice the technical and interpersonal skills learned over the four days- meaning they had the benefit of real-time feedback. Tania says all consultations are unique but the fundamentals she learned at Redken can be applied to every client.

“It is fun to connect with other stylists and see how techniques differ in locations across the country. I hope Bella’s eagerness to learn shows our clients that as a team, we are thinking outside the box and want to provide the best service to them.”-Katie

“My class not only taught me new techniques but motivated me. It is so important to be aware of your client and their needs. Understanding your client makes your work more detailed and efficient. Being on par with the client is a must.” -Tania

Next up? Katie plans to attend the next class within the Wella color series and a cutting class in the spring. Tania will continue with color classes, but first, this March she will return to Redken to learn the new trends in bridal updos as the wedding season kicks off.

Stay tuned to hear more from the Bella Bethesda stylists. Interested hearing more about the techniques Katie and Tania learned? Please call Bella Bethesda at 301-718-9111 to book your appointment.