What country are you from and where do you live?

I am from Canada and currently live in Vancouver B.C.

Title of what you do and what company you work with?

I am an educator for Aveda, on the North America Artistic Team. I work behind the chair and mentor our team at Poppy Hair Boutique in Vancouver BC.

Education background (Hair school, art school, no school)?

My education started with Aveda Institutes and Advanced Academies in Canada.  That is where my passion for education really flourished and advanced me into becoming an Educator in 2009.  It then progressed into Assistant Creative Director at Aveda Institutes Canada. I have mentored students and stylists across Canada. I am grateful to have had many opportunities to learn from some of the best in our industry. 

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

I am always inspired by the many aspects of hair from cut to color to styling.  My mentors have shaped my signature style. I always valued what they were inspired by so I would do the research and copy them in a sense, which led me to creating my own signature style.  I love the combination of classic shapes, geometric lines and messed up textures that create airy movement. Bleached blonde, slightly damaged hair is my favourite texture to cut.

Do you have a career turning point or big break that has helped your career?

I can’t really pick out just one.  I have been so fortunate to have amazing mentors constantly around me. I think moving to Toronto really pushed my career in a new direction.  Being in the largest city in Canada, and so close to NYC exposed me to so much diversity and culture. I didn’t know anyone except hairdressers.  That motivated me and pushed my creativity into doing competitions and stage work.  

My big break would be assisting Peter Grey.  That experience and opportunity showed me a whole new world of creating ideas.

What was your scariest and proudest moment in your career?

The scariest and proudest was winning Canadian Hairstylist of the Year 2020.  Sometimes success can be scary… like now what? There is pressure on how you are going to propel your career next.  I look at this as a big achievement that will change how I look at success. Success to me is a balance of career, family, friends and self worth.  Being kind to yourself is what will make you successful. What you project outwards will come right back to you. I look forward to seeing how I put myself out there for the opportunities I want.

What is next for your career goals?

Ahhhhh, I’m still figuring it out.  I’m trying to be present and enjoy the flow.  Have gratitude, continue to gather ideas and practice.  I will say that education is and always will be a big main goal as I love sharing my experiences with others, it fills me up!

What advice would you give to someone starting out in your business?

Practice.  Get the best training and continue to practice!  Document your learning! Take pictures of your work.  Take pictures of the sections. Take notes. Ask Questions!  Show up ready to do whatever is put in front of you. The beauty of this industry is there is no job description, it’s a lifestyle!  One full of so many amazing life experiences. If you choose to take the time to build a solid foundation with your technique you will have longevity.  Be patient, everything has its purpose. 

Instagram @newtonsflaws

Facebook Tracy Newton Hair

Website tracynewton.ca

IMAGES:

Hair Tracy Newton
Photographer Natasha Gerschon
Makeup Artist Melanie Whitmore
Wardrobe Peter Grey & Anna Borsellino

Hair Tracy Newton
Photographer Charles Vary
Makeup Artist Vivian Chan
Fashion Designer Dorian Rahimzadeh