1 mins
Adventures of a Master EXTENSIONIST
After entering the industry at just 13, Lawrence Taylor reveals the lightbulb moments that helped shape his career
2007
Began hairdressing
2014
Began teaching
2017
First person in Wales to be awarded 5* Extensionist by The Good Salon Guide
2022
Became Head of Education
What has been your career journey so far?
I started hairdressing when I turned 13 and, in the very beginning, I had no real desire to be a hairstylist, it was merely a Saturday job to get me out of the house. I’d always wanted to teach, most likely music or English, but around a year later I was sat talking with my boss and she told me, ‘You should consider this career, you’re a natural.’ I’d mentioned I’d always planned on being a teacher and I wouldn’t be able to do both, it was only when she replied, ‘And you wouldn’t teach hairdressing?’ that I had a lightbulb moment and I realised I could combine the two. Hand on heart, from that moment on, I knew I was always going to end up teaching hairdressing.
What do you do in your role as Head of Education?
As Head of Education for Racoon International, it’s my job to ensure that our courses deliver the very best in hair extension education for our stylists. I write and deliver courses myself both in the UK and internationally, as well as managing a fantastic team of talented educators. I also work really closely with our marketing and product development team, so there’s a real synergy throughout the brand.
What inspires you?
The endless possibilities with hair extensions. With the brand I work for I’m able to custom mix an endless array of shades together in a way that is completely unparalleled.
What are the challenges you’ve faced so far in your career?
I’m sure those who’ve worked with me would agree that I’ve pushed myself to my absolute limits to achieve some of the projects I’ve worked on, but it’s been so worth it.
What’s next for Lawrence Taylor?
I’m a little more hands on with my team at the moment, in salons around the country delivering education to salon stylists and I’m really loving it. This year will hopefully see me working at more shows and perhaps another sneaky product launch or two, so I’ll be heavily involved in that side of the business.