Salon/Spa Industry Reports Positive Outlook

By Jamie Matusow
The outlook for the salon/spa industry remained positive in the third quarter, as the Professional Beauty Association's (PBA) Salon/Spa Performance Index (SSPI) rose for the second consecutive quarter. The SSPI - a quarterly composite ...
Beauty Packaging Breaking News - http://www.beautypackaging.com/

SPA INDUSTRY BOOMING DESPITE RECESSION

Spa Industry Booming Despite Recession | Talk Spas - Learn Share ...
By talkspas
DESPITE the recession, the spa and wellness sector is experiencing a period of unprecedented growth. A boom in the development of hotel and inner city spas.
Talk Spas - Learn Share Experience - http://talkspas.com

NECCEE BATTLES WITH WIA FOR TUITION FUNDING

FROM THE OWNER AND DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION, PATRICIA BUTTERFIELD

THE ISSUE AT HAND

For many years the WIA (Workforce Investment Act) that represents Hampshire, Franklin and Berkshire counties, has refused to provide funding for potential students. We recently submitted data to them showing that NECCEE meets their funding criteria. However, they are still unwilling to approve us. Director Michael Truckey has indicated his doubt that people who choose this career path are unable to make a decent living. We feel that this “elitist” attitude is unacceptable and unjustified.

As a point of notable interest, NECCEE is approved for and receives tuition funding for potential students through all the other state agencies that provide such funding, including WIA for Hampden County.

I have been in contact with local lawmakers who have contacted Mr.Truckey on behalf of the school. They have suggested that we gather data about successful NECCEE graduates who are making a fine living in the beauty industry and present this data to Mr. Truckey when we meet on October 29^th.

WHAT THIS MEANS TO POTENTIAL STUDENTS

This would allow many potential students from these three counties to obtain tuition funding so that they have the opportunity to attend NECCEE. In these tough economic times, this would be a lifeline to these folks.

The following are comments sent to Mr. Truckey's in response to his explanation re non-funding for the careers of cosmetologists and estheticians by the WIA.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Compensation for hairstylists and estheticians can be structured several ways:

1. Hourly wage and commission

2. Strictly commission (this is used mostly for experienced stylists who have a following)

3. Weekly salary and compensation

DATA ON WAGES FOR COSMETOLOGISTS AND ESTHETICIANS

NECCEE provided links to WIA from CareerOneStop, a website that compiles wage tables for all professions from all around the country. These various tables show annual wages as well as hourly wages for cosmetologists and estheticians for 2008.

The text below is off a website where potential students can look for school in their area.

How much can I expect to earn as a professional in the cosmetology industry?
According to both NACCAS and the United States Department of Labor, salon professionals can average up to $50,000 including tips. The 2003 NACCAS Job Demand Survey reveals that cosmetologists have dramatically increased their earning power today with zero unemployment due to the severe shortage of licensed salon professionals. Some of the main factors that determine income include the size and location of the salon, hours worked, the tipping habits of clients, and competition from other salons and shops. A cosmetologist's ability to bring in and maintain regular clients is another factor in determining potential earnings. According to The United States Department of Labor many cosmetologists, and other personal appearance workers receive commissions based on the price of the service, or they earn a salary based on hours worked. Nearly every professional in the cosmetology industry receive tips and commissions for the products they sell. Some salons pay bonuses to employees who bring in new business.

Which jobs in the field of beauty and cosmetology are in most demand?
According to the United States Department of Labor employment of hairdressers, hairstylists, cosmetologists, skin care specialists, and shampooers is projected to grow between 10-20 percent through year 2010. Employment of manicurists and pedicurists is expected to increase 21-35 percent over the same period.

It is important to note that additional income is derived not only from hair/skin services but also from the sales of retail products plus tips that can be substantial in increasing overall income.

Employers sometimes offer benefits but no more or less than any other career in this economic downturn.

Average salary for a Cosmetologist or Esthetician (whom you do not mention in your comments and to whom the school provides training) depends on the type of salon/spa at which the person is employed. It also depends a great deal on location, with opportunities for earnings generally higher in larger cities.

When Bill Ochoa who started two successful salons/spas in W. Springfield andS. Hadley, came to our school as a motivational guest speaker, he told our students that in his salons – and there are others that are in that caliber - his top stylists could command a 90K salary!

There are stylists in New York City and other major cities who charge $500 plus for a haircut. Generally speaking, after the first year or two of building a clientele a cosmetologist/esthetician salary can range from 25K to 35K. In the better markets it can climb to 50K or 60K.

WIA funds programs such as Medical Assisting and Health Claims. These are positions that start at $9 per hour and are at entry level ($18,720K annually). If anything, cosmetology and esthetician positions provide better compensation.

You state that your customers are interested in employment that pays higher and with benefits. However, some of those customers are prospective students who come to us with a desire to train as a cosmetologist or esthetician and then come to WIA for assistance and are then rejected by WIA.

NECCEE’s percentage of graduates, placement and hourly wage standards meet all WIA criteria. Along with this it is also difficult to understand is WIA’s refusal to fund our programs when we are approved by the other WIA areas (Hampden County) in Massachusetts.

I am aware that there are still a few remnants of the stigma that once attached to the field of cosmetology. In this age of celebrity hair stylists and elegant destination spas most of that stigma is simply gone. The compensation levels, job satisfaction, and business opportunities that abound in the fields of hair and skin care have largely swept away such elitist notions. Furthermore, these professions have shown a strong resistance to the severe downturn in the economy.

In light of all of the above, I ask you most urgently to change your policy.

Footnote: NECCEE has a meeting scheduled with Director Truckey on October 28th. Also attending on behalf of NECCEE will be Paul Dunphy, Legislative Aide from Representative Steve Kulik's office and Teri Anderson, Director of Economic Development for the City of Northampton.

To be continued......

COMMENTS FROM RECENT GRADUATES

NECCEE is always gratified to know that our graduates leave their choice of program with very positive feelings about their school experience.

“I think the education in both programs – my cousin was in the Cosmetology program at the same time – was above and beyond. I would recommend this school to anyone. I had a really good time!”

Nicole C – Masters Esthetics

"I really liked working with the teachers and other students; It was fun coming here. I also liked working with clients; I feel comfortable going out and working in a salon.” Marlea L - Cosmetology

“I like everything about my [ school] experience. I learned so much! I definitely would recommend this school.” TDO - Cosmetology

THE DUAL LICENSURE CAREER ADVANTAGE

NECCEE has an attractive and timely career training and tuition savings opportunity for you.

As a graduate of the Esthetics Program, spas and salons are always thrilled to hire an employee that possesses dual licensure, particularly in esthetics and manicuring. Not only is this a great asset to the owner, but it means that YOU can increase your earning capacity by being able to perform a wider variety of services by cross-marketing your skills to clients.

· Enroll in the upcoming Nail Technology Program ($2323.00) and we’ll be delighted to offer you a free nail kit (a $233.00 value) that will reduce the Nail Program tuition to $2090.00.

Part Time 150 hour Program

Tuesday and Wednesday, 9am to 3.30pm

November 3, 2009 through February 10, 2010

· Call Bev Furtek, Director of Career Counseling: 413.586.2258 or E-mail: bfurtek@newenglandesthetics.com

STUDENT COMMENTS ABOUT OUR DIRECTOR OF CAREER COUNSELING

At NECCEE we're very proud and grateful to have Bev Furtek on board as the school's Director of Career Counseling. She will be glad to guide you through the many questions you are bound to have on the school's career programs, financing, housing, etc.

Following are comments from several grateful students:

"I really enjoyed hearing about the program and visiting the school. It's given me something very exciting to think about and I can hardly wait to get started." Susan K

"I wanted to say thanks again for taking the time to see me and giving me a tour of your facility." Joy J

"Thanks so much for all of your help! Everything you've done to help is very much appreciated. I'm looking forward to school and I'll see you in September!" Kristina W

"Thank you so much for your time. It made a huge difference in my selection for esthetics school. I am very proud to be part of your establishment and look forward to meeting all of the faculty and students!" Laura R

SpaFinder Bestows Its Readers Choice Awards to Top Spas

	SpaFinder, Inc. has named its Readers Choice Award winners for 2009, as well as identified some spa industry trends happening worldwide.

COSMETOLOGY SCHOOL CLIENT COMMENTS

One of the most valuable and enjoyable aspects of professional training at NECCEE (a Paul Mitchell Signature School) is providing services to clients. In the redesigned clinic, our career-bound student cosmetologists develop their technical skills in a real world setting. Working with the school's loyal client base is a wonderful way of instilling confidence in our future professionals. Here is a recent sampling of comments from patrons of the Cosmetology School clinic:

"Great experience along with professional service." - Rick B about student Rosa

"Very professional." – Therese F about student Kaleigh

"Stephanie really seems to enjoy her work. Attitude is great." – Mary D

"I had an excellent experience." – Michele S about student Megan

"Very good haircut. This is my second time here and a great experience.” - Dan C about student Liz

"Amazing job." - Wenonah-Rae S about student Sarah

“Toni was great and very professional.” – Ann W

“Fatima was very conscientious and professional and did a great job.” – Mary Jo G

CLIENT COMMENTS ABOUT OUR ESTHETICS STUDENTS

One of the most valuable and enjoyable aspects of professional training at NECCEE is providing services to clients. In the beautiful state-of-the-art clinic, our career-bound student estheticians develop their technical skills in a real-world setting. Working with the school’s loyal client base is a wonderful way of instilling confidence in our future professionals.

Here is a recent sampling of esthetics client comments:

"Alicia is very confident and is shows through her touch." – Linda B

"This was a fantastic experience." - Anna M about student Caroline

"Awesome facial. Thank you." - FG about student Barbara

"Andrea was very conscientious and knowledgeable about her job (craft). Even though waxing/hair removal can be an unpleasant experience, she made it very comfortable." – Jennifer S

"A lovely regenerating experience. I wish you could be open during the school vacations.” Sarah F about student Nicole

"Wow! Best yet Ultrafacial." - Doris G about student Andrea

“I enjoyed the interaction and the explanations.” – Cathy S about student Carolyn

“I have been coming here for 5 years. Nicole has been one of the best, most knowledgeable, gentle, professional students I have had the pleasure of experiencing.” – Jennifer C

“She was awesome.” – Karly M about student Jenna

“Excellent technique, very professional, wonderful representative of your training center.” – Deborah C about student Gina

“Rachel was absolutely wonderful. Professional, very friendly, speedy. Just a delight.” - Debrah B

“I enjoyed Meaghan’s service. Will recommend this experience to friends and prospective students.” - Mary O

“Heather was personable and gracious. Had a great facial.” – Grace L

Beauty is Recession-Proof: Find a Career on new website

Finding an open position at a local salon depends largely on word of mouth and networking. Now, that can happen online through the Beauty School Lounge and its new job board.

Lenexa, KS, October 02, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Beauty itself might not be forever, but careers in the beauty industry are showing their wherewithal by withstanding an uncertain economy. Even with many households’ decisions to trim spending, jobs in the beauty industry are growing faster than the national average because of the increasing demand for personal appearance services, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Despite the job openings, finding an open spot at a local salon has depended largely on word of mouth and networking. Now, that can happen online through the Beauty School Lounge and its new job board.

The Beauty School Lounge (http://lounge.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/) is an interactive boutique where beauty enthusiasts around the globe can network, access helpful tools, follow the hottest styles, and post and find jobs. More than 600 professional profiles have been added since the social media section was introduced in June. Businesses all over the United States have been taking advantage of the free postings, including beauty schools, salons, spas, cosmetics counters and more. Beauty jobs have been added in a variety of positions, from nail technicians to estheticians, hair stylists and massage therapists.

“Online networking was the ultimate goal for the Lounge, which made the job board a logical addition and a way to help professionals and employers,” said Bridget Duffy, Managing Director of Beauty Schools Marketing Group. “It’s great for all levels of experience in the beauty field, from recently graduated beauty school students to seasoned professionals in the field.”

The process for posting new job openings or applying is simple. Users create an account and can build a personal profile and portfolio. To post a free job listing, all you have to do is go to the Jobs page, click on the “Add a job listing” icon, enter in the job description and click “Save.” It’s quick and easy. Members can find beauty jobs and apply for them all at the Lounge: http://lounge.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/jobs. Posts are added daily for part-time and full-time positions.

The Beauty School Lounge social network brings a host of new opportunities to those interested in the beauty industry. For more information about the Beauty School Lounge or Beauty Schools Marketing Group, call 1-800)-571-2246.

New England Center for Cosmetology and Esthetics Education knows that your education does not end on the last day of classes. We provide you with post-graduate care that no other school does.

Our website exclusively for alumni provides a forum for industry-related discussion and sharing of experiences from other people like you... but more importantly, we work regionally with salons and spas to provide a database of employment opportunities. Beyond that, our curriculum teaches you how to make a great resume, and how to present yourself in the employment market.

The tale of two Spas

This is the tale of two sister spas in the middle of Boston: Emerge Spa and Salon, and G2O Spa + Salon. Both properties were born of Giuliano Day Spa, which opened its doors in 1993. “There weren’t very many day spas, and people didn’t know what it was. We spent almost a year answering the phone ‘Giuliano Day Spa,’ and there would be a pause at the other end of the line and the person would say, ‘What?’ You had to take the time to explain it to them,” says owner L. Joyce Hampers.

"No matter what you call the empire Hampers has built, there is no denying it has become successful because it adhered to a basic secret of spa success: catering to the needs of clients."

Read full article here.

It takes commitment, dedication and effort to offer a high quality education to students seeking to achieve success in the beauty industry. Whether you have chosen to pursue the creativity of working with hair, the challenges of skin care, or the detail work of nails, we are committed to helping you achieve your goals. We believe today's professional needs more than a basic education to merely pass the state board licensing exam. To ensure our graduates stand out and succeed in this competitive industry, we are determined to offer the best education available, supported by hands-on experience and a solid foundation in business practices.

At New England Center for Cosmetology Education and Esthetics Education, staying on the cutting-edge isn't a tired cliché. The schools are committed to taking a progressive stance in the Cosmetology, Nail, and Esthetics industries. Our graduates know the most up-to-date fashions, styles, technical information, and business practices - in other words, the kinds of skills top salons and spas are looking for. We are committed to sharing our years of salon and spa experience and professional affiliations with those eager to become part of this creative, billion-dollar industry.

Student Clinic Customers Give Feedback

We love getting feedback from our student clinic customers. The experience is vital to our students, and as noted below, it is a valuable service to the public.

Pat,

I have been a customer of NECCEE for several years now and if you want to really treat yourself to something special, make an appointment for one of their services. You will get the best facial (face and back) of your life! And because they are a teaching salon, the instructors are right there to make sure the perfect treatment is used on you. They can advise you on all types of skin issues, the students are always eager to work on you. I only wish I had more free time to get there.

Both of my (now grown up) daughters suffered from servious acne and NECCEE was wonderful to them. They tried various treatments and products and now their skin is beautiful.

In fact, I'll make an appointment today!

Joanne O.

And another email we got this week:

Pat,
I have moved out of state. Thanks for great services for 9 years.

Susannah C.

You don't ever have to compromise the health and appearance of your hair, skin, and nails. NECCEE is your salon and spa alternative! All services are performed by students under the direct supervision of a licensed cosmetology or esthetics instructor. For more information about walk-in hours or appointments, click here.

More good news for cosmetology students

Unemployment claims are continuing to grow this morning but there is one career that says it's been unaffected by the tough economy. In fact, the business of beauty is booming.

At Echelon Edge Academy in Sandy instructors always have a captive audience. Their students want to be cosmetologists. The career has been Joie Mascone's dream for years.

"Ever since I was little, I put makeup on my animals. I did my own hair and you know, it's always been so much fun for me," Mascone says.

Beyond fun, Mascone may be making a smart move. Jobs in the beauty business have not just weathered the economic downturn, they've grown. Cosmetology has been called one of the top jobs in the nation right now and demand through 2010 is expected to increase by twenty percent.

Also expected next year? The demand for nail techs to grow by up to thirty-five percent. Experts credit the popularity of make over programming on tv, the interest in anti-aging and a new generation of people who are looking for a new career.

Read more and watch video.

Our mission at New England Center for Cosmetology Education and Esthetics Education is to provide the most up-to-date, thorough and well-rounded education in a hands-on, supportive and motivating environment. We promise to deliver the top-notch technical education needed to achieve a rewarding career in Cosmetology, Esthetics and Nail Technology. We also promise to educate our students in sound business practice, customer service, and retail to give them the skills needed to consistently advance their career. Our aim is to make our graduates among the most desirable employees in their field.

Trend Watch: Mobile Spa Business

These days, there are plenty of good day spas thriving in the world. Because people are more familiar and more particular about overall relaxation integrated with beauty treatments, day spas have truly come of age. So fast has been the emergence of the spa industry that currently, there is a new trend on the rise.

Mobile spas are starting to proliferate and operate actively in most markets. Conceptualized and developed on the principle that clients are more at home and comfortable having spa services provided right at the coziness and privacy of home, mobile spas are truly patronized well. In fact, mobile spas are most in-demand in busy markets across the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe.

Clients are ultimately enjoying and taking advantage of mobile spas. For them, day spas that are brought to the comfort of their own homes are really a pleasure. No wonder, mobile spas have been welcomed by the market with warm and amiably open arms.

If you are an entrepreneur and you want to enter into the day spa business, or if you are already into spa operations, you should consider getting into the mobile spa business.

Read full article here.

Positive Signs for a Prosperous Career in the Beauty Business

Turn over a new leaf!

Start your training in Cosmetology or Esthetics this fall and fastrack your new career! Our full time day Cosmetology program takes only 8 months to complete, and our Introduction to Esthetics program takes only 4 months.

The cosmetology and spa industries continue to thrive as people focus on "Staycations" where they stay close to home and treat themselves to relaxing services and treatments. Even though almost 10% of the population may be out of work, the 90% who are employed are deeply committed to dealing with their stress and looking better through salon-cations and spa-cations.

This trend continues (see link below) and professional cosmetologists and estheticians who get into the field now can ride this wave of expansion into the future.

There has never been a better time to get started!

Still willing to splurge at the spa, even during tough economic ... Revenues were up almost 18 percent in 2008 from the previous year to $12.8 billion, according to ISPA's 2009 U.S. Spa Industry Update. The number of spa visits increased 16 percent and the number of locations rose almost 19 percent to ... The Olympian Online -- Outdoors - http://www.theolympian.com/outdoors/

We have the solutions to help you meet the cost of your tuition like...

• LOW monthly payments plans and LOW APR rates that can be paid over a 3 year period after you have graduated
• Customized payment plans to fit your budget
• LOW interest monthly in-house payment program
• Scholarships

For more details contact:

Bev Furtek, Director of Career Counseling
at 413-586-2258 or email: bfurtek@newenglandesthetics.com

A better future is closer than you think!

Michelle Obama's Hair Matters

When the First Lady attended a country-music event in July without a single strand of hair falling below her jawline, the blogosphere exploded with outbursts ranging from adoration to vitriol. Things settled down only when her deputy press secretary clarified that there had been no First Haircut. In the aftermath, a didactic post on MichelleObamaWatch.com proclaimed that anyone "familiar with the amazing versatility of black hair" would have known that the new summer look was simply "pinned up."

Read full article from TIME here.

Why does this matter? Some black women note that Michelle's choice to wear her hair straightened affirms unfair expectations about what looks professional.

"There is no hair choice you can make that is simple," says Melissa Harris Lacewell, an associate professor of politics and African-American studies at Princeton. "Any choice carries tremendous personal and political valence."

No matter how you look at it, what we all do with our hair matters. It matters to us in a personal way. That is why people in the salon industry, and cosmetology careers are in position to bring out the best in people.

The New England Center for Cosmetology Education and Esthetics Education offers an intensive program to train students in the field of Cosmetology, including hair design and styling and nail technology. Students will be prepared for the state licensing examination and the beginning of a successful professional career.

Our current progressive curriculum combines with The Paul Mitchell System to deliver a customized, consistent education, including the latest technology and trends in cutting, coloring, and styling. Students will gain a competitive edge while working with one of the most recognized and performance-oriented product lines in the world.

Students will learn to develop good communication skills and learn how to build a loyal clientele by building strong relationships. This program also includes the business aspect of the salon and retail sales while expanding upon the creative side of Cosmetology.

Spa Week Highlights Inventiveness

$ 50 spa treatments are available in Los Angeles at participating spas for spa-goers during Spa Week September 14 to September 20. There are 40 spas total taking part plus additional spas in San Diego and San Francisco.

Spa Week, a concept developed by Cheryl Reid, introduces "a new generation of consumers to the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and to open up the spa industry to the masses. Spa Week's goal is to make 'wellness' more than just a word but to make it a reality."

The elite services available for $50 include: the Ten Hands Massage which is simultaneously performed by five therapists; the 14 Carat Gold Facial; and the Caviar Facial. Also accessible for only $50 each are medical treatments like Botox injections, Diamond-tip Microdermabrasion and Chemical Peels.

Spa Week is in its 11th season. The promotional event is held two times per year in the spring and fall.

During September 14 to September 20 spa-goers can find bargains in Arizona, Los Angeles, Nevada, San Diego, San Francisco, Chicago and Seattle.

Read more...

New spa treatments include something for everyone

"NEW YORK — In this economy, we could probably all use a little pampering: a massage, a facial, a pedicure. Perhaps a nice soak in a hot whirlpool.

The spa, new figures show, is one thing we're not giving up, even if it means opting for a cheaper experience and fewer treatments."

This article from USA Today is a nice indicator for how the salon and spa industry is as strong as ever... even durning tough times. We could not say it better... now is a great time to start your career, and enroll in cosmetology school, esthetics school, or nail technology education.

It takes commitment, dedication and effort to offer a high quality education to students seeking to achieve success in the beauty industry. Whether you have chosen to pursue the creativity of working with hair, the challenges of skin care, or the detail work of nails, we are committed to helping you achieve your goals. We believe today's professional needs more than a basic education to merely pass the state board licensing exam. To ensure our graduates stand out and succeed in this competitive industry, we are determined to offer the best education available, supported by hands-on experience and a solid foundation in business practices.

At New England Center for Cosmetology and Esthetics Education we'll help you start you on your path towards a rewarding career.

HELP SUPPORT THE DAKIN ANIMAL SHELTER

On Thursday September 10th all proceeds from hair and skin services that are performed on our valued clients will be donated to the Dakin Animal Shelter.

The DVPHS has recently assumed a large financial obligation with the purchase of the Springfield Massachusetts MSPCA shelter facility, after the MSPCA decided to close it. With this commitment comes an expansion of space and programs, and the really good news is that the shelter is working toward a three-year plan to become a "no-kill" shelter, that is, to end the euthanizing of any "adoptable" animal because of lack of space or viable alternative.

For those who are uncomfortable with the word "adoptable," as some of us in the Valley are, we hope that there will emerge a solution for those animals which are, for the time being, considered "unadoptable." Eventually, a place must be found for them, and people willing to adopt those who need a little extra care will step forward, so that Dakin will be a completely "no-kill" shelter with all that implies. We all look to the day that the only euthanizing of animals will be because of their unremitting suffering with no end in sight or hope for survival.

We invite you to visit Dakin's website: http://www.dpvhs.org/ to find out more.

Footnote: A valued client of the cosmetology and esthetics school is turning 80 years young this month. She is a long time animal advocate/activist. This effort honors her desire that in lieu of gifts to her, her friends and colleagues make a donation to the Dakin Animal Shelter.