Alyssa Bonk, GOLD.KEY for COLOR.ME by KEVIN.MURPHY, is Premier Beauty's September Educator of the Month!
Alyssa Bonk, GOLD.KEY for COLOR.ME by KEVIN.MURPHY, is bringing a new perspective to education. That's why we've selected her as Premier Beauty's Educator of the Month.
How'd you get your start in education?
I just completely fell in love with the brand and what they stand for. I think my first impression was the smell of the products and the color. I love the
ammonia-free option—I know some people are allergic to most hair colors.
I've always loved blonding. KEVIN.MURPHY has multiple lighteners for many looks. I also love that there's an option for ammonia-free lightener. It's great for compromised hair and someone who doesn't want a ton of ammonia on their hair.
What's your favorite product from COLOR.ME?
Currently, I am loving the
EVERLASTING.COLOUR line. I like that it helps balance pH while locking in the color.
I reach for the
ULTIMATE.LIGHTENER and
FREESTYLE.LIGHTENER the most. ULTIMATE.LIGHTENER gives even more lift—up to 9 levels—plus it has a bond builder. I love that for people who have a darker color or non-professional dye in their hair.
What's your favorite formula?
My favorite blonde formula is 10.1 + 10.2 + 10.81, and SOFT VIOLET.
What do you love about blonding with COLOR.ME by KEVIN.MURPHY?
The blonde always performs. They've always turned out how I want them to be. I've never been disappointed with a color. I've experienced that brands can look “flat” and love how COLOR.ME is multi-tonal.
I also love how with COLOR.ME, I feel like I can experiment with different shades and get similar results.
What's the newest, freshest approach you're bringing to education?
Approaching education where you're not sitting down in an uncomfortable classroom setting but making it like a hangout is what I bring to education. I like to chat and ask the class what they need more information on before diving in.
I heavily focus on what my students want to gain. So I will start by saying, "OK, I want to learn a bit about you. If you were a hair color, what would you be and why?” Then I pose the question, “What is the most important thing you want to take away from today’s class?"
What do most classes have questions on?
Using newer products like pH.D. I find a lot of people want a walkthrough on that. I would suggest that salons print out wall charts to hang in the color area of the salon, educating on that product!
What are your favorite styling products from KEVIN.MURPHY?
SHIMMER.SHINE and SHIMMER.ME BLONDE are amazing as well.
And…ANTI.GRAVITY—I couldn't live without it!
What are your educator goals?
I want more experience teaching more classes. I want to teach hands-on, advanced courses.
Who's your biggest mentor?
My boss. Brooke! She owns the salon I work at, Brooke Bauer Boutique, and the social media company I work for. She's constantly pushing me to do better and grow my vessel!
Where do you find your inspiration?
Always social media. It's pushing me to do new things and step out of my comfort zone.
What is the most rewarding part about educating?
When they say, “I used what you said during this appointment, and it went ten times better than before.” I love it when they take away what you're trying to teach them.
What is your favorite cutting or coloring technique?
Balayage!
What is a word of advice that you have for new stylists?
I don't want to sound corny, but "don't give up" and always stay in that work mindset. If you're on social media, post as much as you can. Even if it's not perfect, it will pay off.
How do you like to spend your days off?
I like to sleep as much as I can!
Favorite pick-me-up in the middle of a busy salon day?
DoorDashing a poke bowl and some coffee.
Log in or register to shop KEVIN.MURPHY products on Premier Beauty!