Rachel Carr - 2002 Brown Aveda Grad and Director at the Strongsville Brown Aveda Institute
Just three years after graduation, Rachel Carr began working for Brown Aveda as an entry-level educator, teaching introductory courses at the up-and-coming Strongsville location. Now twelve years later, she still meets every new student that comes through the school, but now greets them as the Institute Director.
““My job is to make sure we provide the best possible education for our students.””
With a knack for discovering talent and a love of supporting others, Rachel took on greater responsibility and grew into the director position. Between admissions, curriculum, hiring and training educators, coordinating events, and handling challenges big and small, she acts as the behind-the-scenes powerhouse of the institute.
We caught up with Rachel to ask her a few questions:
Did you always know you wanted to be in this industry?
Oh yes, most of us in the industry start as kids. We're in the bathroom with mom's makeup, coloring for friend and it turning out florescent yellow, or conducting impromptu photo shoots. You know this is what you want to do when you have a natural love and curiosity for all things beauty, and a desire to give that to others and to make others feel beautiful.
Why Aveda?
They have a mission, they stick to it, and they offer a lot of support to their institutions and salons. Aveda is working for something bigger than they are, they're working for the future, for the planet, for sustainability, giving back all while making people feel good.
““Surround yourself with people who love life, and you will love life too.””
What do you think makes an artist successful?
Everybody's idea of success is different, everyone makes their own path and has their own dreams and aspirations, but it comes from looking within, embracing what you want, and doing what you need to achieve it.
Do you have any advice for aspiring artists?
Surround yourself with people that inspire you. Highly motivated and successful people are contagious, and they will help get you to where you want to be. Don't give up on something you're passionate about; we have one life, one chance, and you have to make it worth it!
A closing note from Rachel:
"The more students we have, the more we can stick together to help maintain this amazing industry. If you are interested and passionate, come take a tour, get a service, or check out our homepage to learn more!"
““I’ve seen over 1,200 students in my twelve years here, and at any given moment there’s a stylist doing great things out there, there’s a good chance I was able to play a part in that, and it’s so rewarding.””