Industry analysts are predicting a good — but not great — 2011 holiday shopping season for retailers. Consumers are expected to be more conservative and controlled. Fewer are spending time on vacation and more are devoting time to family and friends.

Press Release: More than 400 people gathered in the Sanford Sports Center recently to take part in The Incredible Back-to-School Wig Out, a fundraiser designed to support philanthropic efforts in our community. Sponsored by J. Christian Studio and hosted by Sanford, the event raised money and hair for the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, which uses donated hair to create and provide hairpieces to children with medically related hair loss.

Groupon, Living Social, Deal Chicken. They’re everywhere. On television, emailing me, Facebook and ringing the phone at the salon. Their sales reps are exceedingly courteous, not pushy. I’ve given a lot of thought to the pros and cons of couponing. Believe me, in this tough economy we have to consider every option for growing the bottom line. In the end, I always reach the same conclusion: This would hurt my brand and probably not worth the risk.

The Studio has always been grateful to Pam Rizzo as an avid supporter of the salon. When she mentioned a feature, I was both honored and excited for the opportunity to talk about the Studio. I’m fortunate to be a part of the international hair community. For the past 12 years, I’ve traveled the world working alongside the greatest minds in the industry. Stylists at the ‘master’ or ‘elite’ level will tell you what drives them is using their skills to enrich the lives of others. This was the guiding principal behind J Christian Studio.

J Christina Studio and Sanford School Present The Incredible Back to School Wig Out

“Without fear there is no courage, without strength there is no growth.” I’m not sure of the origin of this quote, but I first heard it from one of my mentors Michael O’Rourke, founder Sexy Hair. I use this quote a lot because it’s one of my defining beliefs. This is one of the basic principals I teach my staff.

J Christian Studio’s Thanks Contributors for Crazy Catwalk for Kids. The event netted $14,000…

For 2011, hair is all about revivals and evolution. Styles and colors are seeing the best of 2010 reborn, whereas cuts are offering reworked and luxurious revivals of classic styles. Here’s what you can expect this year!

Crazy Catwalk for Kidds. A Hair and Fashion Show supporting Kidds, center for Grieving Children and their Families.

Shellac is a breakthrough UV technology that combines the ease of polish with the permanence of gels. Great for those ladies who prefer natural nails to nail enhancements (acrylic or gel nail extensions).