Meet Dani Cacy, March Educator of the Month

Dani Cacy has been a PLATINUM.KEY Educator for COLOR.ME by KEVIN.MURPHY for the past two of her five years in education.
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How’d you get your start in education?

I was always a really hands-on person growing up, lifeguarding, babysitting, and teaching dance. I took a KEVIN.MURPHY FOUNDATIONS class at the salon I was working at, and the class educator encouraged me to consider teaching with the brand. I am so thankful I gave it a try; I love being an educator and have even taken on an apprentice, so I am licensed by the state to serve as her cosmetology school.

What’s your favorite product from COLOR.ME?

I love the new COLOR.ME pH.D TRANSFORMER. Not only does it extend color, but it leaves hair super shiny!

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

With the pandemic, I have been focused on trying to get as much info out to salons as I can and trying to keep up morale. We all took pre-pandemic life for granted and I know a lot of people are missing that energy, so I always try to bring them as much energy and information as possible, to help sort of reinvigorate them and their passion for the industry.

What are the common problems faced by stylists today?

Technology is a big challenge for a lot of stylists, especially some of the more seasoned ones. It has been really frustrating for some of them with the pandemic forcing virtual learning on everyone. Technology is changing so fast, even I struggle with it sometimes. I try to gradually integrate some of the more technical aspects of virtual learning to help anyone who is struggling.

Lack of in-person education. Understanding new products that were launched pre-pandemic and not being able to learn about them right away. Virtual education is difficult for some people, especially some of the more seasoned stylists - the tech aspect of that.

What do you want stylists to know about education?

Stylists need to be a sponge, especially when they are first starting out, but also as they grow into their role and get more comfortable. You should never stop learning and with things changing so quickly, you have to be open to keep growing.

What are your educator goals?

I just want to be my best and learn as much as I can so I can be a go-to resource for stylists

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

I really want to learn to speak French fluently. After going to Paris, I am obsessed with the French lifestyle!

Who’s your biggest mentor?

Kristan Sayers. She is my boss and a National Director of Education with Kemon. I love watching her teach and inspire other stylists to be their best. It inspires me to be my best and drives me to do more.

Where do you find your inspiration? (for teaching, for behind the chair, for personal life)

My three dogs. I just love them so much and want to give them the best life I can.

What is the most rewarding part about educating?

The most rewarding thing about being an educator for me is being able to help someone become a better version of themselves. Even if I can only teach them one new thing, it’s worth it. I love to see that spark and joy they get from learning something new.

What is your favorite cutting or coloring technique?

I am all about blondes, but I am loving the new halo sectioning trend!

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

Soak in as much information as you can. Take every opportunity you have to learn. Take every class that you can. Be a sponge.

Any advice for seasoned stylists?

Don’t be afraid to try new things and break out of your box. Change is scary, but once we accept it, we can run with it and grow ourselves.

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

I love to spend my days off with my husband and dogs. We get out in the woods and go trail riding in my Jeep—it’s so much fun!

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

Singing Disney. When I get stressed, I head into the back room and blast songs from Frozen and Moana and sing along. It’s a great way to destress (and it makes everyone else laugh).

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