Female Fingerprints: March 2024
Featuring Stylist Yvonne Rene’e
Female Fingerprints is a monthly feature created to highlight women around the globe who have had an impact in their local communities and beyond. Throughout the year I will share some of the best and brightest stories of women who are making a positive and lasting imprint on our world.
In honor of International Women’s Day this March, I chose to write about Yvonne Rene’e, - an embodiment of strength, resilience, and compassion. As a pillar in her field, she not only tends to the physical aspects of hairstyling but also nurtures the well-being of those she serves. Her unwavering determination and tenacity make her a true fighter.
I recently met Yonne Rene’e and after spending a few hours in her chair a couple of times and getting to know her, I knew instinctively that I should share her brave story to inspire my readers.
A true artist needs a canvas. So, the concept of hair as canvas emphasizes and draws attention to the fact that hair design goes beyond mere cutting, coloring, and styling techniques. Just as a painter uses a canvas to bring their imagination to life, hair designing is an artistic endeavor where stylists become artists, showcasing their creativity, vision, and skill.
Hair becomes the medium through which they express their artistry, transforming it into unique and personalized masterpiece. Curating stunning and innovative designs that reflect their artistic sensibilities.
When I asked her ‘Who is Yvonne Rene’e?’ Her response made me smile. “I have been trying to figure it out myself most of my life. I can say that as a human being, I am a creator, lover of nature, art, philosophy and on a quest for truth, all the while making the spaces around me lovely.”
It is truly captivating to discover that Yvonne dedicates one day a week to wander barefoot in her garden, allowing the earth to invigorate her and providing solace during this cherished personal time.
With her phone tucked away, she finds companionship in the presence of her faithful dog and cat, as she embraces the beauty of nature. Yvonne unravels her hair and immerses herself in the serene surrounding, allowing the sights, sounds, and scents of the natural world to nourish her soul.
I met Yvonne at Gould’s Salon Spa in Germantown, Tennessee, the day after her personal time off, and it was evident from the moment we met that she radiated kindness, gentleness, and warmth.
Her gentle caring demeanor immediately put me at ease, creating an atmosphere of comfort and trust. Her compassionate nature shone through in every interaction, her expertise transformed my hair into a radiant display of luster and shine.
“I have been a Hair Design Professional for twenty-seven years. I attended the Aveda Institute in Denver, Colorado and after receiving my Cosmetology License, I immediately moved to Breckenridge, a small ski town, so I could snowboard every morning and do hair the rest of the day.
I chose Aveda because of their founder, Horst Rechellebacher. He believed in organic, botanical products that are in harmony with nature. Sourcing ingredients fromplaces that would use local, indigenous peoples that could keep their ways and in their community. This aligns completely with my core and how I do everything in my profession and personal life.”
Yvonne has achieved remarkable success through numerous collaborations and projects, working with esteemed photographers, fashion designers and creative teams. Both on and off the runway.
Her extensive professional network and industry recognition serve as a testament to her accomplishments. Yvonne’s personal brand within the industry has garnered a strong reputation, and her professionalism is further validated by the glowing testimonials from her satisfied clientele.
Despite Yvonne’s remarkable success, she has encountered her fair share of challenges. Following yet another car accident in Colorado that rendered her unable to work, she faced the difficult decision of closing her business, her own boutique hair salon during the peak of her success.
She chose to donate her time and talent to different charities every season, especially children’s’ orphanages, women’s homes, and animal shelters.
“I had no hope, just a lot of physical chronic pain as well as emotional pain, it was a dark period for me”.
After several years, Yvonne embarked on a journey of self-care, healing, and personal growth, ultimately finding the strength to restart her career as a hair designer once more.
Her new challenges would be facing industry changes in technology, style, products, and techniques, to say the least. Yvonne pursued and faced each adversary with great resilience and determination, which serve as an inspiring example of overcoming adversity and pursuing one’s passion.
Yvonne’s mentorship and giving back as a teacher to support emerging stylists speaks volumes, her passion and respect for her industry is commendable.
Her dedication to enhancing her clients’ appearance and well-being, combined with her commitment to using high-quality products, sustainable practices, and providing a hospitable atmosphere, is truly inspiring. A role model who has proved that women can define success on their own terms.
Yvonne’s fingerprints are imbedded in every aspect of her artistry!
In the world of Hair Design, there are many stylists who focus on specific techniques, be sure you are asking for the right specialist when making an appointment.
Color Specialist/Colorist: focus on color theory, techniques, formulations, corrective treatments, color psychology in fashion and custom formulations.
Texture Specialist specializes in working with different hair textures, curly, coil, or textured hair. They provide natural hair care, relaxers, or treatments.
Master Stylist, Senior Stylist consider complex haircuts, advanced styling techniques and color service.
When exploring new salons or stylists or simply seeking a fresh look, scheduling a consultation appointment can be highly advantageous. A consultation allows for a comprehensive evaluation of your hair’s texture, type, and face shape, along with consideration of any unique hair patterns.
This assessment ensures that the stylist can recommend the most suitable cuts and colors that complement your facial features and desired aesthetic. By prioritizing a consultation, you can confidently embark on your hair transformation journey.
Happy International Women’s Month to all the incredible women who make this world a better place. Your strength, resilience, and contributions are truly remarkable!