Inspiration Meltdown

Inspiration. We all look for, seek, out and try to capture it.

On April 4, the designers and colorists at Robert Andrew received it with a day filled with tips and techniques from Brent Borreson and Brian Washburn.

Brent, a designer and National Artist with REDKEN, lead the team on a journey and how to find inspiration from the things in life that we enjoy everyday. This translated into a hands-on workshop with a modern shape called “Fluid Yin-Yang.”

The designers experienced how to approach the design so that the techniques could be used for any guest that they encounter. The disconnected “Yin-Yang” through the top area allows additional movement and texture with several different finishing options. “Approaching the shape from the inside-out allowed our team to experience a different approach that gave more consistent results” states Brent.

The completed shape was then enhanced by an “Ombre” color technique. Brian Washburn, Robert Andrew Artistic Director, shared the latest color trend from the runways and Hollywood. The French word means “shade or shadow.” This technique allows the colorist/designer to give the guest a softer looking placement of color that looks like nature did it.

The color melts from the scalp and lightens more towards the ends. This more natural effect allows a longer wearing result. The application of the color/lightener is key to the end result. “Dry brushing the product into the hair at different points allows us to change the saturation of the color, thus changing the end result within the same strand of hair!” states Brian. Jennifer Anniston has been wearing this technique for several years; she never looks like she needs her “color” done.

“Awesome technique!” “I see this type of color on celebrities all the time.” “My clients will love the low maintenance approach to high lights!” Are just a few of the comments from the stylists.

As we finally experience the renewal of Spring, come experience a new you inspired by “Fluid Yin-Yang” or “Ombre” color. The staff at Robert Andrew is ready to share their excitement with these modern, and on-trend techniques!

12th April, 2011 - Posted by Andrew - No Comments

Plunge Festival Gets A Facelift for 2011

PlungeFest, The Free Winter Festival Surrounding the MSP Polar Bear Plunge, is Expanding to Include Six Zones of Frigid Fun; Highlights Include Entertainment by Jersey Shore’s DJ Pauly D in the Rams Head Ice Lodge, Mickey Harris’ Monster Garage, Robert Andrew Tuscan Spa Retreat and More

Baltimore, MD – PlungeFest – the free winter festival surrounding the MSP Polar Bear Plunge – has something for everyone in 2011, offering six different Zones of frigid fun that allow festival-goers to choose their Plunge Day experience on Saturday, January 29 at Sandy Point State Park.

Highlights of this expanded festival, which runs from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Jan. 29, include an appearance by DJ Pauly D – of MTV’s Jersey Shore – who will be headlining the Rams Head Ice Lodge, which is returning for its second year; the new Chesapeake Bayhawks Arctic Lacrosse Zone, featuring autograph sessions and demos; and the Robert Andrew Tuscan Spa Retreat where the Robert Andrew team will bring a dose of pampering to the beach.

Details from each of the zones of frigid fun are:

Robert Andrew Tuscan Spa Retreat: Who doesn’t need a little pampering now and then? Robert Andrew Salon & Spa is offering a multitude of services at the Plunge, with all proceeds benefiting SOMD. This includes mini-consultations with Dr. Jeffrey Horowitz, a board certified plastic surgeon, Micro Dermabrasion with Dr. Stacey Tieff, 10-minute mini massages, hair cuts, hand dips, teeth whitening and lip treatments. A variety of other vendors will also be inside this spa tent, all focused on beauty, fitness, health and wellness.

Mickey Harris Monster Garage: Internationally renowned airbrush artist Mickey Harris will custom paint a 2011 Harley-Davidson Street Glide, donated by Harley Davidson of Annapolis. Watch as he and Straight Line Autobody transform this Street Glide into a work of art!

Rams Head Ice Lodge: Headliner DJ Pauly D will entertain the crowd with a pre- and post-Plunge DJ set, and a variety of local acts will round out this full day of entertainment. With food and non-alcoholic beverages for sale in the tent and an assortment of vendors, it’s a can’t-miss spot on Plunge Day.

Chesapeake Bayhawks Arctic Lacrosse Zone: Because not all Plungers are polar bears, the Bayhawks teamed up with Plunge organizers to create a tent full of all-things lacrosse. With major national lacrosse brands represented, autograph signings by Bayhawks players, demos, and a presence by numerous youth lacrosse organizations, this zone is one-stop shopping for lacrosse players and fans.

Carnival FunFest: This popular festival tent is back for a 4th year, with a fantastic kids’ area, boardwalk-style carnival games, a variety of food vendors, crafters and other displays.

Pure Boardshop’s X-Games Tent: It’s X-Games on the Bay! Pure Boardship is helping to create an unforgettable experience in this brand-new Plunge venue, which includes Maryland’s best skate shops and their associated riders doing demos, the Banshee Bungee from Jackass 3D and awesome givewaways.

Admission to all PlungeFest activities is absolutely free to Plunge participants and spectators alike. Polar Express shuttle buses are also available at no cost, traveling to and from Sandy Point State Park from the Naval Academy Stadium, Anne Arundel Community College and Kent Island High School on the Eastern Shore. The day-long festival also includes fan favorites like the spirited costume contest, a live remote by 98 Rock, the early morning Plunge by talent from WBAL-TV11, 98 Rock and WBAL-AM, among others. Those wishing to participate in the Plunge can do so at either 1 p.m. or 3 p.m. and need only contribute $50 in pledges. For that donation, all participants will receive a commemorative event sweatshirt and photo gift. Online registration is available at plungemd.com. Anyone wishing for a more up-close and personal experience with either DJ Pauly D or Ravens QB Joe Flacco (or both) can consider the Ultimate VIP Package, which, for a $500 contribution earns the donor a Meet & Greet with Pauly D, and for $1,000 with both Pauly D and Flacco. The MSP Polar Bear Plunge has raised over $16 million for Special Olympics Maryland in its 14-year history, and nearly 60,000 people have braved the bitter waters of the Chesapeake Bay. This year marks the 15-year anniversary of this celebrated event, and organizers expect as many as 12,000 men, women and children to once again grin and “bear” it for the athletes of Special Olympics Maryland.

12th January, 2011 - Posted by Andrew - No Comments

Trend Watch Winter 2010

What’s Hot and DIY Tips To Get Them!

Winter is upon us and the weather tends to be cooler. Keep things heated up with the latest trends in cut, color, and styling. Experience how a new look can help you battle the layers of clothing, scarves, and cold weather to be fresh and on target this winter. From the runways of fashion to celebrities of the world, we’ll look at what’s hot and how to get it!

HEAVY WEIGHTS: Heavily layered hair that encourages natural wave and texture enhanced by an eye catching fringe!

 What’s it look like? If you haven’t seen her, Danish model Freja Beha Erichsen embodies this trend. The length falls just below the shoulders and works well with many different facial shapes. The heavy fringe accentuates the eyes, and can be modified to fit different hair textures and growth patterns. The natural texture can be enhanced with great products and styling tricks.

How to get it: With the right cut and making sure your hair has some natural texture, first use a towel to squeeze out the excess moisture and encourage the natural texture. Now, turn your head upside down and apply a curl/texture enhancing product throughout the hair. Three products to try – Redken Soft Spin, Aquage Sea Salt Texture Spray, or bumble and Bumble Surf Spray. Comb the product through. Use a diffuser with your blow dryer on low speed and medium heat. Lift the hair with the diffuser to encourage more wave/curl.

DARK & LOVELY: Rich and lustrous brunettes are all the rage. Add some natural looking highlights to turn up the heat!

What’s hot about it? Darker hair has a richer appearance with more shine. Rich shades of chestnut, burnt sienna, russet browns and cherry can be worn alone or enhanced with subtle/natural highlights. The key here is natural; several levels lighter within the same shades will make Mother Nature jealous!

How to get it: If you’re nervous about commitment, try a demi-permanent color to get the hottest brunette shades. They add depth, shine, and condition the hair. Try Redken Shades EQ for a shade that is perfect for you!

BODY & BOUNCE: Full, sexy, and free flowing hair, no matter what length.

The Big Deal: Hair that has body and bounce has a sexy feel, especially when worn under a scarf or trendy hat this winter!

How to get it: Apply a volumizing product from scalp to ends. bumble and Bumble Styling Lotion, Redken Layer Lift, and Aquage Uplifting Foam will all get the job done! Blow dry with a round brush. With the hair on the brush, blat it with cold air to set. As you unwind the brush, twist your wrist to “twist” the hair. After you have finished, turn your head upside down and rake your fingers through to loosen the set. Shake your head and apply Redken Wool Shake and scrunch onto the hair for added texture and hold!

 PIXIE DUST: Short is the new long!

Who’s got it: Emma Watson, Ashlee Simpson, and Janet Jackson all took the plunge and crossed over to the “short side” with amazing results!

How to get it: It’s all about creating texture in the hair. A razor cut is awesome! It allows the edge to be soft on a stronger shape. This keeps the look fresh and modern and not like the average soccer mom!

30th December, 2010 - Posted by Andrew - No Comments

PHAROS of FORM

Stylists from Robert Andrew participated in a hands-on training program with Heather Fritz from Sebastian on Monday September 20, 2010. Texture and volume were the keys to creating “Pharos of Form,” the latest collection from Sebastian International.

Several cuts were showcased from the collection. They included a mid –length “bob” inspired shape, as well as a longer look. Both shapes had volume, texture, and movement; reflecting the influence of all the latest looks in fashion for the fall.

The longer shape is cut dry after the hair has been shampooed and conditioned with Sebastian Volupt to add body and volume from the inside out. “cutting the hair dry allows the stylist to see how the hair is responding, as well as were to apply texture to enhance the overall results,” says Brian Washburn Artistic Director for Robert Andrew Salons and Spa.

The Pharos of Form from Sebastian offers several cuts with several styling options to give you multiple looks for any event or occasion this season!

30th September, 2010 - Posted by Andrew - No Comments

Fall Fashion Inspires Hairstyles

On July 19, 2010, Robert Andrew stylists were inspired by Sam Villa from Redken 5^th Avenue NYC. He shared creative cutting and finishing techniques inspired from the runway looks from fall Fashion Week 2010 .

The fall fashion combined multiple textures and fabrics to create  looks that are versatile, exciting, and full of movement. “The layering of different individual pieces are a staple of the looks for fall 2010. This approach to fashion, allows us to adapt our use of our tools to create hair styles that enhance the natural texture and beauty of our guests’ hair,” states Sam.

The cutting techniques use “The Art of Disconnection” to add movement, volume, and a “frothy “ texture to any hair type. The texture was then enhanced and supported with professional styling products. Velvet Gelatine 07gives the hair a very plush, velvet like feel to add support and control. To add a great new “beachy wave” look and texture, the shapes were finished with Wool Shake 08; it brings out a wave and curl in the hair that have never been achievable before.

 Versatility was the key in finishing longer hair. Braids were everywhere on the runways and continue to be a great way to add versatility and a fresh way to pull longer hair off the face. The Knotted Rope technique can be used to secure hair off the face, or to give the illusion of a headband in the hair.

Artistic Director Brian Washburn stated, “Our entire staff was so excited after spending the day with Sam. He inspired our staff with modern techniques that will not only give our guests a great new Fall look, but can also be adapted to anyone’s hair texture!”

Schedule your appointment today and allow us to share with your our vision, inspiration, and professional techniques and products to bring out the best in you for Fall 2010!

Sam is a National Artist with Redken 5^th Avenue NYC as well as a pioneer in the development of new tools for professional stylists to create current looks. He was voted Favorite Platform Artist by Behind the Chair.com; a profession stylists website community.

16th August, 2010 - Posted by Andrew - No Comments

Continuance of the Daily Chronicles by Yvette Shirey

Day 23 – Wow!  Staying on a regimen is not easy in my busy life!  A couple of trips, forgot parts of the program, missed a couple of nights,  oh well, I will keep trying. 

A few good notes to share…  While I do not have new hair growth yet, I can say that my hair is not falling out as fast.  I used to run my hands through my wet hair and get a handful.  Now it is just a few strands. That’s good news. 

The other note: My daughter is 11 and has very sensitive skin.  She is allergic to metals so when she wears bobby pins or metal clips, she gets a very flaky scalp and it is hard to repair.  I had her try the Nioxin and within 2 days the itchy, flaky scalp cleared up.  Two great points that make this worth the try.

This week I am going to start the vitamins and see if that helps speed the growth up more.

Day 28 – Just met with my representative for Nioxin and wanted to share what I learned.  She explained that I should not expect more strands of hair but rather the hair I have will start to be thicker and stronger.   For those who color their hair, they can also expect their color to be better and last longer.   If I get new hair growth from the open follicle due to the product, that’s an added bonus but if my follicle is not producing hair, this product cannot help.

So…  still good that my hair is falling out less which shows the product is working because it is stronger.   Also will be good if each strand I have is thicker so it will give the illusion of fuller hair which is what the end goal is.  I will keep trying and keeping you posted.

6th August, 2010 - Posted by Andrew - No Comments

Daily Nioxin Chronicles by Yvette Shirey

Are you self conscious about your thinning hair?  Have you always wondered what’s out there to help you?  Nioxin Scalp Renew might be your answer!  Nioxin Scalp Renew is an in-salon scalp Dermabrasion Service and a take home Density Restoration treatment that helps to reduce hair loss by an average 54%.  It helps restore stronger, denser looking hair by removing build-up around follicle sites and regenerating skin’s surface 34% faster than untreated skin. For the next couple of weeks you can follow Yvette’s journey as she tries the Nioxin Scalp Renew:

Early 40’s, single mom of a soon-to-be 6^th grader, career focused, daughter of an aging father, and I drive a long commute… certainly I have something in common with you.   For years, I have battled with fine, thin hair… a gift from mom – good thing she also gave me common sense.   As I am sure you have, I have seen the various advertisements about miracles in hair growth but have been skeptical, too busy or not wealthy enough for some of the options. 

I now work in the beauty industry and have the opportunity to try a product line called Nioxin™.   I invite you along my journey as I try to grow hair that I am hoping wants to come out.  I will be updating you daily at first and then probably weekly while I wait for results so you can know that someone like you has tried it and what I experienced.   Hope you find it helpful.

The product line has a variety of components and my regimen will include several but not all.  Please know that I am not being compensated by Nioxin™ nor have they been in any way involved in my wanting to try the product and share my story along the way.   You can get official information on how the product works and company information at www.nioxin.com .

Any professional trained in the application of Nioxin™ can apply the treatment; my stylist is Leah Kinsey at Robert Andrew Salon & Spa, Gambrills, MD.

DAY 1 – July 9,2010

Yeah!  Today I get to start my Nioxin™ treatment. 

4:30pm, Leah begins my treatment.  She explains that she will apply my treatment and I will relax for 20 minutes while it performs its magic.  Then she will rinse my hair out.  I was expected a burning sensation (not sure why, just seemed logical that to stimulate my follicle would be burning) but actually it is a cool, tingly sensation.  I relax and wait.  If you decide to do this treatment, I suggest you bring a sweater as I got a chill that was hard to shake until after she blew my hair dry.

So, that’s it for now.  Fingers crossed.

EVENING 1 – July 9, 2010

Leah explained I needed to apply the Scalp Renew™ to my scalp every night before going to bed for the next 14 days.  I applied the product on the top of my scalp where I need the most hair to regenerate.    I was concerned about a mess it would leave and about odor but it was clean and easy.  Even my boyfriend said it smelled nice, a clean pleasant scent. 

DAY 2 – July 10, 2010

Big event day at work so I need my hair to style nicely.  I wash my hair with the Nioxin™ Cleanser ™ followed by the Scalp Treatment™.  My hair seems dry so I apply the Nioxin™ Intensive Therapy® masque to the ends and leave in for 5 minutes.   Then I rinse the scalp treatment and masque at the same time.  After towel drying, I apply the Scalp Activating Treatment™ directly to my scalp and rub in.  I follow my normal styling routine with my root lifter and mousse.  I dry my hair with my large round brush and then I use a little flat iron magic.  Looks great! I am happy.

The shampoo smells fresh like the rest of the products.  Just a little goes a long way.  The scalp treatment is a cool sensation but it feels great in a hot shower.  The masque is a nice creamy consistency.  Hair feels good!

EVENING 2 – July 10, 2010

I am tired.  Worked our Super Saturday all day.  Made dinner at home and quickly fell asleep on the sofa trying to watch a movie.  Woke up at 12:30am, let the dog out, cleansed my face and am now applying my 2^nd of 14 treatments to my scalp.  Beauty takes effort… right?  Actually a quick application, some scalp massaging and I am off to bed.

DAY 3 – July 11, 2010

My day off.  Same morning routine in the shower with the cleanser and scalp therapy.  Then the Scalp Activating Treatment™  before digging into my regular styling routine.  Another good hair day.

 EVENING 3 – July 11, 2010

Just got back from my girlfriends birthday party dinner.  I am full but it was so tasty.  On 3^rd treatment of 14.   No changes so far.

DAY 4 – July 12, 2010

Wondered why the man up the street gave me a funny look this morning when I was walking my dog this morning.  Ooops!  I forgot I had the Scalp Renew™ on my hair from last night and it makes my hair a bit big with bed head – good thing I am not a celebrity.

So, I came in and started my morning Nioxin™ regimen; Cleanser™ and Scalp Therapy™ with the Intensive Therapy® masque,  then Scalp Activating Treatment™ and style. 

Evening 4 – July 12, 2010

4^th of 14 treatments with  Scalp Renew™  No new hair yet but my hair is manageable and shiny.

Stay tuned for the second half of these Chronicals…..

29th July, 2010 - Posted by Andrew - No Comments

Robert Andrew in the Community: A Day in Lingerie

When you think Robert Andrew … think beautiful women. Earlier this year, Robert Andrew President Melissa Eppinger saw an incredible partnering opportunity with the Lingerie Football League when they announced their newest league edition in Baltimore, aptly named the B…altimore Charm. The venture was natural, seeing as how Robert Andrew is the official salon and spa for both the Washington Redskins cheerleaders and the Baltimore Ravens cheerleaders. Melissa made this partnership a reality.

Robert Andrew is proud to announce that we are the official beauty partner for the Lingerie Football League’s Baltimore Charm. You can count on Robert Andrew to be wherever the “charming” ladies are, including a future calendar shoot and pre-opening spa event for the girls at the salon.

We were exposed to some of the pre-season magic at try-outs on May 2 at the 1st Mariner Arena in Baltimore, MD. The drills were grueling, and Melissa Eppinger and RA make-up artist Jami Funk were on-site to watch the action. Jami Funk also did make-up and spray tanning for last year’s Baltimore Raven’s calendar shoot. Competition was tough as girls lined up on the field for both defensive and offensive drills.

“This is not a cheerleading camp,” founder of the lingerie league Mitchell S. Mortaza said, according to the Baltimore Sun.

Emotions were high, but thankfully Robert Andrew was on hand to calm the nervous ladies, offering discounted spa service coupons and live complimentary touch-up make-up sessions. Hopeful Baltimore Charm candidate Samantha Allen was treated to a post-work out make-up session to calm her jitters, and to keep her feeling confident and looking beautiful throughout the day.

Make sure to keep updated about our involvement in the community via the Robert Andrew Twitter and Facebook page.

12th May, 2010 - Posted by Andrew - No Comments

THE SKINS WORK WITH ROBERT ANDREW TO SAVE THE BAY

What better way to celebrate “Go Green” March at Robert Andrew The Salon & Spa than
to have several Washington Redskins cheerleaders and players on hand to raise
awareness for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation .

Robert Andrew’s charitable arm, RA Cares , focused on this Foundation, which fights
for creative solutions to the Bay’s pollution, by donating a portion of the month’s
proceeds to its cause. Other Go Green initiatives included 20 percent off all green
products as well as the Salon & Spa offering organic facials, manicures, pedicures,
body wraps and spray tans. Robert Andrew also introduced their newest hair care
line, Onesta , which not only is free of chemicals and dyes, but also is 100 percent
offset by wind power, packaged in recycled materials and supports sustainable
farming.

Robert Andrew’s president Melissa Eppinger and director of business development
Leeanne Decker made sure that Redskins wide receiver Devin Thomas and offensive
lineman Edwin Williams experienced water-based organic facials in the Men’s Zone led
by master barber Derek “Buck” Williams , in keeping with the month’s theme. The
football players also received sports massages and pedicures.

Several Redskins cheerleaders were also at Robert Andrew getting their hair styled for the April 1 tryouts, including Captain Abby Dymond , Ashley Stewart , an ambassador of the cheerleaders, and Ashley Norman , trying out for the second time. www.robertandrew.com

8th April, 2010 - Posted by Andrew - No Comments

Redskins and Ravens Cheerleaders Help Us Kickoff the Men’s Zone

This Saturday at Robert Andrew, we celebrated the Men’s Zone–a private, men-only spa area. At our Open House, we welcomed men to our Gambrills location, and treated them to free massages, paraffin hand waxes, facials and facial hair trims. Our guests were “cheerfully” greeted by the Redskins and Ravens cheerleaders, who talked with guests, signed autographs and performed outside of Robert Andrew.

Despite the very hot temperatures, the two teams’ cheerleaders danced and cheered. They put on a great performance and attracted quite an audience.

The Men’s Zone remained packed throughout the day. In addition to the free spa services, the men also received beer, free skincare treatment packages and a cigar from our neighbors at Titan Cigar. In between hot shaves, Robert Andrew’s celebrity stylist, Derek, was able to meet and greet some of the men who visited the Men’s Zone. To view all the photos from the Men’s Zone Open House, click here.

Thanks to everyone who helped us break in the Men’s Zone, we had such a great time. To schedule an appointment with Derek in the Men’s Zone, call us.

17th August, 2009 - Posted by Andrew - No Comments