We’re thrilled to announce ARROJO Cosmetology School’s Class 11 are now high-flying beauty school graduates.
The presentation and graduation party is the apotheosis of seven months of hard work. From day one, when students know nothing of their new craft, to their Graduation Day, they have diligently studied cosmetology in theory and practice, working their way through basic blow-dry to techniques to advanced razor-cutting, creative color, and fashion-forward styling; becoming contemporary image consultants in the process.
This day, then, is a chance for graduates to show off their new skills. Each must display one model that is a reflection of their newfound technical and creative scope, and their own artistic interpretation of an era or theme. They must offer a complete look, including outfit, makeup, hair and style.
The overall theme the students chose was to take inspiration from one of the four fashion capitals of the world — New York, London, Milan, or Paris.
With each Graduate picking one place and engendering a look based off of that inspiration, what a show we got!
Friends and family were invited, and came from across the States to see these hairdressing stars of the future. It made for a spirited, high-octane atmosphere.
The show started with an inspiring video, made by class educator, Lorriane Cruz, and featuring a slideshow of images from the students’ seven months in school. Then came the runway model presentation. A feast of international styles, highlighting modern and creative, precision-based hairdressing alongside fashion-forward makeup and wardrobe inspirations, it was testament to the power of great education, teamwork, craft, and graft.
A closing speech by school founder, Nick Arrojo, spurred on the students to make all their dreams come true: “This is the beginning of your cosmetology career, work hard, stay inspired, think big, vow to never stop learning, and there is no limit to what you can achieve in this great industry,” he said.
This month, Nick Arrojo also performed a razor-cutting demo along with Lauren, another professional stylist from ARROJO studio, for class 12. The students enjoyed seeing how the classic cuts they are taught can be transformed when they are performed with the razor. “Nick’s razor-cut face frame was so soft, I really like the result,” said Deirdre.
We also had a special guest to the school, nail artist Kevin Maybee. Kevin, a nail technician and make-up artist with 25 years in the industry demonstrated acrylic nail application, and nail art to Class 12.
Kevin has worked on Broadway shows, commercials, and even the LA Opera. Our students were excited to see the effects he created with acrylic. “I had never been that attracted to acrylics, but Kevin really opened my eyes to how much creative potential there is,” said one student, Clare. Nick, also from Class 12, agreed, “There is so much you can do with acrylics for different effects, shapes, and colors. You can completely personalize the service.”
Personalizing your service for each client is an important part of being a truly great stylist. And often, personalization lies in the details. The era project, which explores the complete looks of different decades, gives our students a chance to focus on the transformative power of styling. This month, both class 12 and part-time class 1 tried their hand at period styling, from hair and makeup to clothes and accessories, they recreated classic looks from various decades. Check out the results in the photos below!
As we continue to grow, we look forward to seeing the many avenues our alumni will travel down. Supporting the creative endeavors of all of our students, be they past or present, is part of what makes this school special. Congratulations to Class 11, and welcome to class 14! — Laura Martin (ARROJO Cosmetology Educator)