George Alderete 

Aka Colorboygeo

What country are you from, and where do you reside?

I live in the United States and currently reside in Atlanta, Georgia.

Title of what you do and if you are aligned with a brand or company.

I’m the Global Color Ambassador for Keune North America. In this position, I write courses/curriculums with other Lead Academy Facilitators.

Education background (school, salons, self-taught)?

I attended cosmetology at a Junior College in Southern California. A new salon (Inner Image) opened in town. I applied and assisted a lead stylist who mentored me, and my career started from there. After a few years, I partnered with William Storkan and founded Sculpt Salon. We grew our business in two locations. I sought advanced education for everyone in the salon and quickly discovered a new world. That’s when I began my journey in advanced education and never looked back! I‘m fortunate to have the enlightenment and mentorship along this path I call my career.

What is the first creative project that you remember?

That’s easy: our first salon! I want to collaborate, create a home for stylists to foster growth, and create an environment where guests would come, relax, and enjoy the experience at Sculpt Salon. After all, our motto is “You Sit We Sculpt!” Then came the photo shoots to put our work on the walls; the rest is history.

What is your signature style/artistic expression of your work?

I believe in bringing out the element of beauty in my work. Sort of beautiful classics have always been my favorite. My current mood is creating classic styles with vivid color choices. Tasteful, comes to mind if it’s in your face strong, then it must make sense and be beautiful.

What is the most fulfilling job you’ve worked on or someone you have worked with?

My entire path is filled with scores of people who have supported me, from creative directors and editors to publications like yours! I can’t point to one fulfilling thing. I believe this; when I do begin to wind down, I want to look back at it all and see that I’ve been a part of it… Wow, I’m fulfilled.

Do you have a career turning point, big break, or person who has helped your career?

Yes, I remember it like it was yesterday. I was invited to an opening for a local distributor. The gentleman who invited me was none other than Philip Wilson, who later became a mentor to me. The room was full of editors and trade magazine folk. He gave me a shove, and that’s where I got my first trade magazine story. It was just a blip, but little did I know there would be more to come. When I speak to Phillip today, I always thank him for that invitation.

What was the scariest and proudest moment in your career?

This moment is clear as day. An editor at the time for America Magazine, Marianne Dougherty, called me to do a shoot and asked if I had experience. I then said bravely and confidently yes, of course, but I had never done a professional shoot before. That was my first publication story featuring the salon and our work. Our 16-year-old model at this shoot was Tyra Banks!

What is next for your career goals?

I would love to be involved with studio work here in Atlanta! I enjoy the behind-the-scenes moments and creating a project with a team.

What advice would you give to someone starting your business?

Research. Go to others who have a business model that you love. You will be surprised how many will offer up advice. All you have to do is ask.

Instagram: @georgecolorboygeo

Website:  www.georgealderete.com