IBS Educator Spotlight: Sherry Ratay

The International Beauty Show's West Coast edition, IBS Las Vegas, is next month! Boasting more than 21,600+ beauty professionals, the show is the fastest-growing event in the beauty industry. Packed with education, excitement and inspiration, IBS Las Vegas delivers exactly what you need to enhance your career.

RELATEDSave the Date: International Beauty Show Las Vegas

One of the show's biggest highlights is the world class education available to attendees, including 100 free classes, pay-to-attend master classes and hands-on workshops. Leading up to the event, we'll be sharing background information and fun Q&A sessions with several educators that you'll want to add to your list of must-sees. Today, we're shedding light on Sherry Ratay, a celebrity colorist, award-winning color expert, salon owner and bi-coastal colorist at Gavert Atelier in Beverly Hills.

RELATED: IBS Educator Spotlight: Rodrick Samuels and Lauren Moser

At this year's IBS Las Vegas, Ratay will cover how to choose flawless shades by taking into consideration factors such as existing haircolor, natural haircolor, skin tone, eye color, and desired maintenance level. She will also go over how to control reds, brunettes, and blondes and keep them from fading, how and when to choose a demi-permanent hair color versus a permanent hair color, what to expect when lifting with lightener versus high lift, and how to achieve maximum grey coverage. We sat down with Ratay to ask her a few rapid-fire questions.

What's one piece of advice you'd give to your younger self?

SR: It's okay to be vulnerable. 

What's the product you'd bring with you to a desert island?

SR: I'd have to bring two—bleach and a demi-permanent haircolor. 

Do you remember the moment you decided on hairdressing as a career?

SR: Hairdressing is in my blood—I've always known. 

Explain your presentation at IBS Las Vegas in five words or less:

SR: Haircolor is an accessory, not a necessity. 

What inspires you?

SR: The contrast between lightness and darkness, whether it be in nature, fabric, makeup, automobiles etc.

Who do you follow on social?

SR: I follow a variety as my needs change each day. I might need inspiration, motivation, education and/or empowerment within myself.

For more information about Ratay's class, click here. For more on IBS Las Vegas, visit ibslasvegas.com