Star Alibegovic is a salon co-owner and stylist with 19 years of experience behind the chair. She recently took her passion for learning to the next level by joining the KEVIN.MURPHY brand as an Educator.

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How’d you get your start in education?

I always wanted to be an educator, but between family and my career, the timing just hadn’t worked out for me. Last summer, our KEVIN.MURPHY Rep let me know there was an opening, so I went for it!

What’s your favorite product from COLOR.ME?

I love COLOR.ME ULTIMATE.LIGHTENER. It allows me to achieve up to nine levels of lift—perfect for creating gorgeous shades of blonde. Plus it has built-in bonding protection; it’s amazing!

My absolute favorite from the KEVIN.MURPHY line is YOUNG.AGAIN DRY CONDITIONER. It’s perfect for people that want to revitalize their hairstyle without having to wash their hair. It’s also made from the best oils and leaves hair hydrated, too.

What's the newest, freshest approach you're bringing to education?

I’ve been very fortunate to get a lot of great education from different brands throughout my career and I think that gives me a good perspective. Combined with such an amazing product line, it really feels like the sky's the limit. It gives me the platform to create something new and to share that with other stylists.

What are the common problems faced by stylists today?

A lot of newer stylists struggle to transition from the school to an actual salon, especially after the pandemic, because they haven’t had the hands-on practice they need to be confident in what they’re doing.

I want new stylists to know that they just have to stick with it and get as much hands-on practice as they can—don’t get frustrated and give up. Get a mannequin and practice, practice, practice. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Our industry has a place for everyone.

I also see a lot of stylists that have been in the industry for a long time struggling to adapt to using social media. Years ago, stylists didn’t have to market themselves—it was all word of mouth. Now we’re having to put ourselves out there and show our work on these platforms we’re not familiar with.

Fortunately there are a ton of resources out there you can learn these skills from; you just have to find the right resources, whether it be a business class, podcast, or even Instagram accounts to follow.

What do you want stylists to know about education?

Education is everything: More knowledge is more power to create and imagine. Education is the key that unlocks it all.

Don’t ever think that you know it all. Our industry and technologies are constantly changing, and you have to stay on top of it. Even after 19 years behind the chair, I still regularly continue to invest in more education.

What are your educator goals?

I want to share my knowledge in a way that helps others to succeed and feel empowered.

What new skill would you like to learn (hair or non-hair related)?

I would really like to become a MASTER.EDUCATOR with KEVIN.MURPHY.

Who’s your biggest mentor?

I have a few—on the cutting side of things, Eric Fisher of Eric Fisher Academy On the color side, Christopher Benson of Matrix Academy really opened my eyes to seeing our work as art. I also really admire Kevin Murphy; his staff and his skills are really something, and I love everything the brand represents.

What is the most rewarding part about educating?

To me it’s just being able to share what I know with people who want to learn and grow.

What is your favorite cutting or coloring technique?

I love using two types of scissors to cut different shapes and styles into hair. I am also in love with the Madison look created with babylights from KEVIN.MURPHY.

What is a word of advice that you have for new stylists?

The best advice I have for stylists, whether they are new or seasoned, is to keep learning and keep dreaming. Elevate yourself and your professional standards. Don’t be afraid of being polished —it shows you respect your work, as well as your client.

I also think it’s important to remember to focus on the client. Their service is their time; it’s not about you and your needs.

How do you like to spend your days off? (hobbies/interests)

I work out a lot—I love to run, do endurance work, and play tennis. I also enjoy cooking and entertaining, and spending time with my family and my dog.

Favorite pick-me-up in the middle of a busy salon day? (snack, coffee, music, meditation, etc.)

Protein bars and water. They give me energy and keep me from getting hungry.

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