My first thought of being a part of the beauty industry came when I was 15. This was the moment I had my first consultation & cut with a "cool" hairdresser who immediately fascinated me. This "out-of-the-box", full of life, creative, joyous and free personality had a profound effect on me. Needless to say I became part of her tribe, and my adventures into "cutting edge" style and fashion began. A year or so later I remember my mother asking me what, if any, thoughts I had on what I may want to pursue, career wise. My sincerest answer was, "A Hairdresser". This did not sit well with my parents plan for my life and I was soon whisked off to University to learn "How to make it in Corporate America", becoming a business major, in a private Jesuit College in Seattle, WA, with plans (contract) to enter the family business. Let's just say that the Universe had other plans for me and at the age of 33 I was able to listen to the inner nudges, entering into a new and creative chapter. I have a new respect for those who reinvent themselves later in life. Myself and others are a testament for what is possible and that choosing to "follow your bliss", is a choice "you" have to make.
After many years in the business world, I have returned to a passion that was held close to my heart as a young boy.
The benefits of coming into this industry with a solid and well rounded background are immense and will benefit you tremendously. Having been around the industry intimately as an observer and learning the ins & outs of Manufacturing, Marketing, R&D, Ingredients, Distribution, Corporate Structuring, and Product Integrity the decision to use a particular Product or Product Line is thoroughly explored. I will always "use"; what has been scientifically proven, third party tested (verified), tried & true products, the healthiest option for you & your hair, products with integrity, simply put...the best products that are available.
More Personal information on Alan Mandarano
I have always sought an outlet where I could be "of service" in an authentic way, utilize my creative nature, employ my fashion & design sense, control my own future, join an evolving industry where people are valued and treated as equals from top to bottom, and to be surrounded by positive like-minded individuals. When we get clear on what we want and ask the Universe for "it", the answer usually comes swiftly, and in no uncertain terms. In my case, all that I sought was right under my nose. Having married a hairdresser and salon owner, I was exposed to the industry in an intimate way and have always felt at home around it. After attending a few advanced cutting and styling events, experiencing the caliber of individuals within the industry, visiting schools, attending trade shows, meeting with various mentors in the industry, and experiencing the overall culture first hand, it was clear that this was where I was meant to be. The Industry of Fashion, Wellness, and Beauty has manifested all that I had asked for. It is amazing how everything shows up when we are living from authentic and inspired space.
I have always had a keen sense of "style", creating my own look and having an eye for what works. Throughout my youth, college, and professional years I have sought a creative outlet in; wood turning, pottery, abstract painting, sculpting, writing, all sports, small business ventures, marketing, business development, fashion, wellness, beauty, reading, nature, photography, self-discovery, recovery, meditation, travel, and LOVE. I have done many things and have found no greater joy and purpose than being "of service" to others.
The yearning for creative outlets will never cease. The Art & Industry of Fashion, Wellness and Beauty, embodies all that I have desired creatively (infinitely evolving), providing a healthy, challenging and dynamic working environment with peers, and most importantly, enables me to be "of service" in an intimate way. I am dedicated to the latest developments within the industry as it relates to better health for "you" and our environment, creating loyal relationships with quality manufacturers, providing the best choice for all your fashion, wellness and beauty needs.
-Alan Mandarano
Hair Designer-Caregiver
Founder-Integrity Venture