Top stylists share their secrets Professional stylist Lee Stafford and other big names from the hair and beauty industry came together on Sunday 13th March to share their insider knowledge at Cornwall’s only hair, beauty and complementary therapies trade show, Salon Cornwall.

Over 1000 guests flocked to the annual event, now in its fifth year, which showcased the talents of celebrity hairdresser Lee Stafford, award-winning barber MK and media make-up artist Jennifer Lenard, as well as offering up the chance to be among the first to discover new treatments, products and industry trends.

Lee Stafford, who runs hairdressing academies across the UK, demonstrated a selection of cuts and styles taught within the academies to a packed audience. Lee described his career journey from cutting hair in his mum’s dining room, attending seminars from top stylists and working his way up to develop his skills. Lee then demonstrated a style called ‘The Long Disconnection’ which used short layers to create natural volume and texture.

Media make-up artist Jennifer Lenard wowed the crowd with a full tutorial of a Japanese-style make-up look using airbrush techniques, providing tips to create the perfect finish. Speaking about the day, Jennifer said: “The Salon Cornwall event grows and gets better every year. Everyone is helpful and I am pleased to be a part of it.”

One of the UK’s leading barbers, MK, shared with the audience how to create intricate designs as a feature of male hairstyles.

The show was hosted by Truro College, which saw a number of its students star as models for the main demonstrations. Grace Dixon from St Ives, who is studying Level 3 Beauty Therapy at the College, modelled for Jennifer Lenard, describing it as “a great experience.”

The event also featured a range of industry exhibitors including OPI, Ellisons, Eve Taylor, Salon Services, Salon Supplies, Redken and La Beeby, as well as demonstrations from the apprentices and students at the College’s Inspiration Hair and Beauty salons.

Talking about the benefits of Apprenticeship programmes for the industry, Lee Stafford said: “Apprentices are great, you have to give to get back. It’s up to you to give great training – it’s a two-way street. I have learnt that if you give them a lot of energy and passion, they will give the same back to you.”

Hayley McKinstry, Programme Team Leader for Hair, Beauty, Complementary Therapies and Catering at Truro College, commented: “Salon Cornwall 2016 was a fantastic event; we are so proud to have created the exhibition to support the existing and new professionals within the industry. The event continues to grow year on year with people travelling from out of the county to visit.”