Why I Chose to Leave—and What That Taught Me Leaving a workplace—especially one where you've invested time, energy, and passion—is never an easy decision. But sometimes, the environment just isn’t the right fit anymore, and quietly enduring it starts to come at a cost. So I left. I've done it before and I may do it again. I’m reinventing myself in a new place, in a new season. As I often tell my daughters, “It’s only a moment in time.” Right now, what’s coming up for me is the rebuild. The refresh. I’ve been really lucky—grateful, even. Most of my clients followed me. For the ones who haven’t, I see it as space being made for new connections, fresh energy, and maybe a few surprises. This morning I came in early to do a blowout for one of my regulars before her big meeting. Honestly? It was just what I needed. I’m an overthinker and a worrier, so working with my hands and easing into the day in a quiet salon is the kind of peace that sets me straight. Now her appointment’s done, and I’m sitting here with my coffee, watching the early risers heading toward Bean. Fisgard is a happening little spot in the morning—actually, it’s busy all day long. And here’s the weird thing I’ve been wondering: Was the last salon just too easy for me? I think I was missing a challenge. Being an independent stylist again is pushing me outside of my comfort zone—and maybe that’s exactly what I needed. I used to jokingly call myself the Fixen Vixen with my old coworkers. I was the one who fixed things: botched colors, challenging personalities, re-dos, last-minute requests. If there was a problem, I was usually the one asked to sort it out. And if I’m honest, I liked it. I like being the one who figures it out. I like the pressure, the problem-solving, the satisfaction of turning something around. I’ve probably had a misstep or two in my 35-year career (who hasn’t?), but overall, I know I’ve made a difference—and I know I’m good at what I do. That’s something I’m finally starting to say out loud. Not with ego, but with earned confidence. There’s a difference, and I’m learning to own it. Building this next chapter of my career isn’t just about a new location. It’s about rediscovering my voice. It’s about showing up with more clarity, purpose, and direction—not just for my clients, but for myself. And here’s where it all ties together: That clarity is what makes me a stronger leader. It’s also what’s led me into consulting. After years of building salons, mentoring stylists, and navigating every high and low this industry can throw at you, I’ve realized that my real gift—my superpower—is helping others rise. I’ve seen burnout. I’ve felt stagnation. I’ve been the one holding it all together behind the scenes. And I know what a difference the right guidance, support, or conversation can make when you’re stuck in survival mode. Whether it’s rebuilding a business, creating a healthier salon culture, finding your niche, or just needing a grounded perspective from someone who’s been there—I’m here for that. I’ve lived it. I’m still living it. And I love helping other stylists and salon owners carve out something that’s not just “successful,” but sustainable. So yeah—leaving was hard. But it led me here. And here feels right. Curious about working with me? If you're a stylist or salon owner looking for clarity, growth, or just a trusted voice to help guide your next steps, I’d love to connect. Reach out through my contact form here and let’s start a conversation. Let’s build something that truly works for you.
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💛 5 Signs Your Blonde Needs a Refresh (And Why Now's the Time) Intro: Blonde hair is high-maintenance—no surprise there. But when it’s done right? It’s radiant, dimensional, and worth it. If your blonde has been looking a little brassy, blah, or just not you lately, this is your sign to stop settling and start shining. Here are 5 signs your blonde could use a little professional love—and how I can bring it back to life. 1. Your blonde has turned brassy or yellow. Unless you’re going for a golden-hour glow, brassiness usually means your toner has faded or your hair is crying out for a refresh. A gloss or custom toner can bring your blonde back into the soft, creamy, or icy tone you originally fell in love with. 2. You’ve lost the dimension and it’s looking flat. Whether you're a balayage babe or a foil highlight regular, blonde needs contrast to really pop. If everything’s starting to blend together or look dull, a little depth (yes—sometimes even adding darker pieces) can make your blonde brighter. 3. Your roots are making a statement—and not in a cute way. Grown-out roots can look effortless… until they don’t. A root smudge, subtle blend, or soft lift can keep your grow-out looking intentional instead of accidental. 4. Your hair feels dry, fragile, or rough. Lightening is no joke on your strands. If your blonde is starting to feel more like straw than silk, it’s time for a pro conditioning treatment, a gentle gloss, or both—so it looks and feels healthy again. 5. Your blonde doesn't match your vibe anymore. Blonde isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re craving a cooler, ashier tone, a warm honey blonde, or something bold and bright, your hair should reflect you. A customized refresh can totally shift your look—without changing who you are. ✨ Blonde Refresh Promo ✨ From now until August 31st, book any colour service over $150 and get $25 off, plus a complimentary gloss or conditioning treatment to tone, hydrate, and bring your blonde back to life. This offer is perfect for blondes who need a reset, refresh, or just some TLC. Wrap-Up / Call-to-Action: Blonde should feel luxe—not like a maintenance chore. Let’s get your tone, health, and glow back on point. 💛 Click here to book and mention “BLONDE25” to claim your offer. www.vagaro.com/louisavukovichairstylist Hair Colour Correction: When Your Hair Throws a Tantrum…
Have you ever looked in the mirror after a DIY box dye or a “cheaper” salon visit and thought, uh oh… what have I DONE? Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and your hair is definitely not beyond saving. That’s where I come in: the seasoned stylist armed with the skills (and toner) to bring your colour back to life. In all honesty? You probably should’ve come to me before the hair emergency… no judgment. (maybe just a tiny bit.) What Is a Colour Correction? Hair colour correction is the process of fixing a hair colour issue—whether it’s patchy, brassy, too dark, too light, uneven, or just plain wrong. It's like a makeover, but for your hair’s emotional damage There are a few common reasons clients come to see me for a correction: Box dye regrets -I see you hiding under that hat. Unexpected salon results, ah yes, that ash blonde turned orange. Hot roots anyone? Faded fashion colours that now looks like a sad rainbow Uneven bleach jobs that left you more leopard than platinum, with a little breakage to boot Why You Shouldn’t Try to Fix It at Home Everyone loves a good DIY project—however, hair colour correction is not one of them. Without proper training, and products, you could damage your hair further or make it harder to fix later. This is chemistry. If you’re not sure what undertones you’re working with—or how your hair will react—you could end up with breakage, banding, or some very unexpected shades. Your hair deserves much better than guesswork and hope. What to Expect During a Correction First things first: this is a process, my favorite line is “colour correction…not colour perfection” Colour correction can take anywhere from a couple of hours to multiple sessions, depending on what we’re working with. We’ll start with a consultation (a judgement-free chat about what happened), assess the condition of your hair, and create a plan that keeps it healthy and beautiful. We might: Use a colour remover to strip old tint Pre-tone or fill the hair to correct undertones Gradually lighten or darken areas Tone and condition like it’s our full-time job (because it is) Patience + Professional Products The goal is to bring your hair back to a balanced, gorgeous shade without frying it. That’s why we often work in stages. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a good brunette blend after three rounds of bleach. I also recommend professional shampoos and conditioners at home, it makes a big difference, huge. Final Thoughts Hair colour correction isn’t magic—it’s chemistry, artistry, and experience wrapped into one long appointment with snacks (bring snacks). If your colour isn’t living it's best life, come see me, a pro who can bring it back from the brink—with less judgment and more toner. Much. More. Toner. |
AuthorLouisa Vukovic MA, RSE stylist, writer and salon expert with over 30yrs in the beauty bussiness Archives
November 2025
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