LAURA BOLAND - Senior Stylist

What is your education and background?

My journey as a Hair Stylist began in 2003 in Minneapolis, MN at the Aveda Institute. Upon obtaining my license, I completed a New Talent Program as a Hair Cutting Specialist and became an Educator at an Aveda Concept Salon in MN and a lead Stylist at local Fashion Shows; collaborating with local Designers and Musicians. I specialized in Hair Cutting for 13 years; living and working in MN and NYC. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to style a few celebrities (Claire Danes, Marina Abramovic) and assist with in-house education in NYC. I wanted to gain more experience in teaching and helping new Stylists, so I became a full-time Educator at the Aveda Institute NY. In 2016, while working in Brooklyn, I began practicing ways to integrate creative color techniques to compliment and enhance my haircuts. I have fallen in love with this extension of creativity for both myself and my clients. I obtained a BA in Music at the Conservatory at Brooklyn College and in 2021, I moved to Kansas City to reconnect with family and further nourish my craft as a Stylist.

What are your notable accomplishments and continuing education classes you have attended?

• Assistant to Ira Pope Sage: Haircutting Workshop - KS 2021

• Color Space Hands-on Color Workshop, Lupe Voss- KS 2021

• Reverie After Dark Haircut Demo, Garrett Markenson - NYC 2019

• Razor Shag Demo, Jayne Matthews - NYC - 2018

• Davines Color Class - NYC 2017

• Haircolor Solutions at Aveda Institute, NYC - 2013• Razor Cutting Essentials, Retro Classics: Reliving the 20’s & Core Cutting Essentials,

Ricardo Dinis - Aveda Advanced Academy NYC 2013

• Innovative Cutting, Aveda Advanced Academy NYC 2008

• Vidal Sassoon Classic Cutting 3-Day Course - LA 2006

• Creative Curly Cutting, Ruth Roche - MN 2006

• Vivienne Mackinder Vintage Waves Styling Course - NYC 2005

• Aveda Congress, Various Workshops - MN 2005

How would you describe your work?

My approach is intuitive and meticulous; reflecting the fluidity and beautiful imperfections of nature. I love to build relationships with my clients to optimize suitability and promoting longevity by customizing looks that can be styled effortlessly and grow out seamlessly. I love to sculpt and create foundations that support our unique lifestyles and natural textures. I also love to experiment with mixing and blending custom colors to further emphasize individuality, and to compliment my client’s overall style and goals. Hair is another medium and creative outlet for me. I view it as a malleable textile and wearable art. Moving around the country and adapting to different lifestyles and cultures has helped me become more patient and a better listener.

What are you most passionate about in your job and why?

I enjoy connecting with clients and helping them feel more aligned with their hearts through self-expression. It is my goal to make people smile by feeling heard, supported, and nurtured. I consider myself a forever student and love learning from my clients, staying challenged, and feeling inspired by other Stylists.

What are your hobbies or interests?

I am a Composer, Musical Collaborator, and Performer. I love to sing and am a Harpist in training hoping to become a Harp Therapist. I also love to travel, read, and shop for unique vintage items and flea market treasures. I am passionate about self-care and balance, organic cooking, a low-waste lifestyle, and supporting local businesses.