This year, Elevate Hair celebrates a decade of artistry, community, and transformation—and the impact runs deeper than just the hair.
What started as a salon party has grown into something bigger than we could have imagined. From underground club shows to the big stage at Aveda Congress (P.S. We’ll be back this year too!) Elevate has always carried the same high energy—bringing artists together to inspire, connect, and celebrate their craft.
At the heart of this movement is Paul Eastin, a Baton Rouge-based stylist, educator, and artistic director whose influence has shaped the Elevate experience since its early days. From fashion runways to the salon floor, Paul’s artistry reflects the creativity and boldness Elevate is known for.
“From starting as a salon hair party to club shows and all the way to the big stage at Aveda Congress, Elevate has always brought the same high energy,” Paul shares. “With a mix of street fashion and over-the-top avant-garde hair, you’d have to check your pulse if you walked away from an Elevate show without feeling inspired.”
As a featured artist, Paul’s passion lies in working alongside both seasoned professionals and rising talent, striking a balance that keeps the creativity dynamic and fresh. “Elevate is the perfect platform for aspiring hair and makeup artists to get their feet wet in stage performance, while also giving seasoned artists the chance to relive the magic of showcasing their work among peers.”
For Michelle Walk, it all began with a spark. “I first heard about Elevate Hair during a Dare to Dream conference… and I was immediately captivated.” That spark quickly turned into a fire, igniting a dream she hadn’t dared to speak aloud: performing on the Elevate stage. That dream came true in May of 2024—and it left her wanting more. “Could I even ignite someone else’s spark? I would love to inspire other artists and elevate their craft. Elevate Hair truly lives up to their name.”
For Nikki Scandalous, Elevate gave her the courage to step into the spotlight—literally. “The first time I ever did hair on stage was at an Elevate show in St. Pete. Facing my fears led me to being the best version of myself.” Since then, she’s returned to the stage with more confidence and more passion. “Thank you for everything you’ve done in elevating our careers.”
And for Coraline Blue, it’s the connection and authenticity that make Elevate Hair stand out. “It’s a place to be inspired or to reach deep inside yourself and create… in front of a fully supportive community. I feel it’s hands down one of the most important events for our industry.”
As we celebrate 10 years of Elevate Hair, we’re not just looking back—we’re dreaming forward. Thank you to every artist who’s stepped on stage, cheered from the crowd, or simply found their spark in the experience. Here’s to more moments, more artistry, and more elevation.
