Jada Jenkins, Sam Villa ambassador, Mizani artist and L'amour de Rose Salon owner (@jadajenk. insco), also has a celebrity clientele that she travels for. This includes Ego Nwodim, Tweet, Mia Thornton, Corbin Reid, Sherri Shepherd, to name a few. As a stylist on the go, it is important to always be prepared for anything!
“When working with celebrities, the actual style of the hair is not always set at the time of booking. And even if we do have a plan, it may not work out and we might need to change things up at the last minute,” explains Jenkins. “Having multiple supply and tool options is a way to set yourself up for success, especially those that can be used in multiple ways, are light and small or have features such as being cordless.”
Below are just a few items Jenkins keeps in her travel kit:
- Two different texture types of hair extensions, great for adding length and volume.
- Extension cord — a long one to reach the styling station, with a power strip to protect tools if electricity goes out.
- Blow Dryer — Must be powerful and light.
- Diffuser — always!
- Sam Villa Artist Series 2-in-1 Marcel Curling Iron and Wand — a must have, it has many uses and can be used on all textures of hair. You can create waves, curls and coils.
- Flat Iron — for flyaways and the random silk press.
- Sam Villa Pro Results Cordless Flat Iron — "I love having the wireless flat iron, it doesn’t need an outlet which I find genius, because sometimes finding outlets on set can be a hassle," says Jenkins.
- Makeup face cover — so clients can get dressed without getting make up on clothing.
- Safety pins and nail polish remover — for some reason clients always ask for them.
- Pins, clips, elastics, combs, brushes, towels and mirror.
She also has a couple tips on prepping for a VIP session:
- Stay away from strong smelling food right before a job.
- Bring mints — for fresh breath for herself and her client.
- Carry shoe covers in case an establishment has a “no shoes” policy.
To learn more from the Sam Villa Team, check out FREE Facebook Live classes and YouTube tutorials. The complete catalogue of customizable education for salons, shows and events, including Thrive On, is available here.