Love: By Samantha Snowdale

Love, according to the dictionary, is a warm attachment, enthusiasm, or devotion. In more depth love was described as an unselfish loyal and benevolent concern for the good of another. Pretty great, huh? I was inspired to write about love after last months amazing blog on Gratitude, by Kendra Goodwin. In her blog she challenged the reader to think of five things they were grateful for. My list was easy.

1. My best friend, my husband Brad who makes me laugh and smile everyday.
2. My children, Wyatt & Clinton. Words can't even express how grateful I am for them.
3. Family and friends.
4. My health.
5. My job and the people I work with.

After writing and reflecting on my list I was overwhelmed with a feeling, being full of love. 
I wanted to take a moment to appreciate and write about love. Seeing as this month is February -the month of love- I found that topic to be quite appropriate!

We all have some form of love in our lives. Whether it's for a spouse, parent, sibling, child, pet, hobby, or job. It's an amazing feeling to love or to be loved. I think it is so important to love what you do. Most people spend more time at their job than they do at home, so why not do something you are passionate about? Everyone deserves the opportunity to live a life of fulfillment and passion. 

An article on Business News Daily describes the power of loving your job that said people who enjoy what they do are more productive, feel more motivated, have mental health improvement, and their job doesn't feel like a chore; to name a few. So not money, but loving your job can produce all these great side effects. Those all sound like great reasons to me! 


More powerful than loving your job or loving others, is loving yourself. When you embrace who you are it makes you happier. It is referred to as self-acceptance. According to this article on the Huffington Post, research suggest that self-acceptant people are more optimistic, less stressed, and are less at risk for developing depression or anxiety. Basically you can greatly improve your life just by deciding to love and accept your self. I LOVE ME! 

All in all love is an amazing emotion and we all have the power to feel it, embrace it, and notice all the love we have created in our lives; because we deserve it. 

I'd like to leave you with  a silly yet insightful quote.

The Impact of Gratitude : by Kendra Goodwin

When Ashley and Deanna told me I would be writing our first stylist blog of the year, I immediately knew what I would write about. January 1 is an interesting time. We have just ended a year. 365 days. 8,760 hours. What better time than now to take some time to remember all of the awesome things from 2015? Here is how habitual gratitude can help kickstart your year!

Studies have shown that participants keeping a gratitude journal for 10 weeks versus those who did not were 25% happier. Who doesn't want to feel 25% happier?? It almost sounds like an infomercial for some magic serum, but it isn't. It is simply taking a timeout of every day to look at what you already have, and be thankful. I remember when The Secret was really popular, and I read it for myself. It got pretty extreme at parts, but strip away all the weird magic and the real secret is gratitude.

Side effects of gratitude might include:

More energy

Hire emotional intelligence

More forgiving attitudes

Less depression

Less anxiety

More feelings of being socially connected

Better sleep

Fewer headaches

My favorite chapter in my favorite book, You are a Badass by Jen Sincero, is titled "Gratitude is the new attitude". How awesome would it be if we made our New Year's resolution to be grateful? It is a lot easier than going to the gym or sticking to a diet! 

Here are some simple ways to remember all of your blessings every day:

- Think of five things you are grateful for every morning

- When you think of something someone did for you that you are grateful for, send them a card or even a quick email to let them know you appreciate them.

As we enter 2016, I am grateful for my smoking hot, incredibly supportive husband; our healthy, strong baby girl; and for a career doing what I love.

Remember, Thanksgiving isn't the only time to be thankful for! And Christmas isn't the only time to be generous with your love! Happy new year and a 25% happier new year if you track your gratitude :)

*A note from Ashley, co-owner of Verde Salon. This beautiful article was written by one of our amazing stylists, Kendra. She is a genuine person who practices gratitude everyday. More info about Kendra, click here .

Taylor, October's Stylist of the Month!

Everyone who knows Taylor, loves her! Not only is she unbelievably talented and creative, she is just a total sweet heart! Taylor has shared some of her favorite stylist tricks and treats with us!

In her natural habitat.

Glo Minerals *New* Contour Kit- 20% OFF

Why Taylor loves it?

"I'm absolutely loving these fabulous versatile kits. The Contour Kits come with 2 deeper shades (one is a perfect bronzer) and 2 lighter highlight shades (one had beautiful shimmer) and they can double as eye shadow! The Contour Brush is the perfect double ended tool to chisel in depth and blend on highlight. "

KEVIN.MURPHY Anti-Gravity Spray 20% OFF

Why Taylor loves it?
"I chose Anti-Gravity because it gives you everything you need for the perfect blow-dry! Light hold, volume, and heat protection in one bottle! I also love spraying this on dry hair before I use a curling iron, it adds light hold, shine, and protection. Anti-Gravity also smells like lavender, I love it!"

Taylor's favorite fall trends: "For hair my favorite Fall trend is healthy hair! Everyone is coming in asking for big cuts to clean up dry damaged ends. We are doing a lot of glosses for shiny, healthy looking hair! For fashion, my favorite trend right now is all the bold Aztec patterns on clothes. Paired with moccasins or moccasin boots... so cute!"

Taylor is Supporting Shiloh this Month!

Our Stylist of the Month gets to pick one special animal at the APCSM to support. This means throughout the month all of our stylists will donate a portion of their tips toward Shiloh's adoption fees. Hopefully this is expedite this handsome fella into someones loving home. Shilo is a 10 year old rat-terroir mix, and he is a love bug! He loves walks and snuggling. He is friendly and sweet, a total gentleman. He deserves to spend his golden years with a loving best friend. Maybe it will be you?

Handsome guy Shiloh!

DID YOU KNOW?? A few (not so secret) secrets about Taylor!

1) Taylor is Verde Salon's very first employee! That right, she has been with us (Ashley and Deanna) right from the beginning. We all worked together in a previous salon together and we loved her so much she needed to come with us!

Taylor and Ashley on a tour in San Fran!

2) All Taylor's tattoos have an underwater theme. And she has got a lot! Her arm had an octopus, ship, sharks, buried treasure, coral and more. Her leg has a swan and sea shells, and on her torso is a lady pirate skeleton! The ocean is definitely a big part of Taylor's soul!

Taylor's newest edition!

3) Taylor has not one, but two motorcycles! This is actually how Deanna and Taylor met, in there mutual love for riding on two wheels with the wind whipping in their hair! (Just kidding, they wear helmets) Years ago they were both in a all girl motorcycle club, Chic Riders! Ride or die, ladies ;)

Deanna in the middle, Taylor on the right. Chic Riders. 

Taylor and her handsome guy, Ruscko!

Meet Kendra, Verde's September Featured Stylist!

September is the perfect time to spotlight our fabulous stylist, Kendra, because it is our one year anniversary together! How time flies!! Although, Kendra is such a perfect addition to the team its hard to imagine the salon with out her.

Kendra has been a stylist for over 8 years, but has been passionate about hair as long as she can remember. Her first clients being Barbies and childhood friends, nothing was going to hold her back from her true love, making everyone beautiful! Kendra is a real master and excels in every aspect of hair. From the most extreme makeover, to a precision classic bob, her work is always gorgeous. As an amazing listener with an honest heart, Kendra will always create a look perfect for each unique guest. 

Kendra's Products Picks for September!

KEVIN.MURPHY KILLER CURLS  20% OFF (its NEW!!)

Why Kendra Loves it: "I love that Killer Curly provides serious moisture and hydration to my curly hair clients. It enhances their curls, while still keeping a natural texture. Its perfect for curly girlies who want to wash and go!"

Glo Minerals LIP GLOSS 20% OFF

Why Kendra Loves it: "Glo Lip Gloss is one of my favorites because it feels great and lasts long. My lips always feel nourished and not too sticky. There are so many beautiful colors to chose, I especially love  Poppy & Peony !"

One thing we absolutely love about Kendra is her passion to learn and educate. Every time she learns something new, she shares it with the staff. Recently she became the salons first Kemon Master Colorist. In the year she's been with us she has dove head first in learning everything there is to know about Kevin Murphy and Kemon Color. She brings a fresh perspective and always has amazing ideas to share. 

One of Kendra's recent ideas is to sponsor an 'Animal of the Month' at the A.P.C.S.M. We will be raising money by stylists donating some of their tips, and posting about this particular animal to spread the word. This month we are sponsoring Cinder, a beautiful grey cat. Click HERE for more info about Cinder!

Cinder looking gorgeous ready for adoption!

In Kendra's own words:
Q. If you could style any celebrity, who would it be and why?
A. "I would love to do Lena Dunham's hair because she would be down for whatever hairstyle and we could chat. I think she is hilarious and intelligent."

Q. What would your 'spirit animal' be and why?
A. My spirit animal is obviously a cat because they are always in charge, and always do what they want. But can also be great listeners and great snugglers. And they have great hair!

This beautiful family with Kendra, Nate, and Rocky!

Since Kendra had made the move to Verde she has been having an incredible year! Aside from being an amazing, super-start stylist, she had married the man of her dreams, and is expecting baby-girl Kinsley in October! We are so excited for this upcoming bundle of joy, and know Kendra is the perfect role model to raise a kind, genuine,  and empowered little girl.

Meaghan, Verde's August Stylist of the Month!

Meaghan Morrissey!

August is the perfect time to feature Meaghan, Verdes newest team member, because it's warm and sunny just like her! 

Here are Meg's products favs for the month of August!

KEVIN.MURPHY Plumping Wash and Rinse 20% OFF
I choose the Plumping Wash and Rinse because this is the only hair product that actually does what it promises ! There are olceanioc acids that are a derivative from Biotin scientifically proven to work! After about a month you will start to see and feel a difference in your hair.  Don't even get me started about the scent, this scent is everything... I wish it was made in a perfume! Plumping was the first product I tried from Kevin Murphy. I've been using it since December of last year and continue to every time I wash my hair. This is my one product that I would bring to a desert island with me, it's my tried-and-true! 

Glo Minerals Sheer Lipstick 20% OFF
I chose the Sheer Lipsticks because they are beautiful and there's a ton of vitamins in them- A, C, & E! Vitamin A: fills in fine lines. Vitamin C: helps protect against environmental elements such as sun damage and aging. Vitamin E: is a vitamin that will lourish your lips with a ton of moisture, chapped lips are not cute in the summer!They also will last a lot longer than the standard lipstick which is awesome! The sheer lipsticks will add a pop of color without the feeling of a matte lip. I also love the names of 

them!

 
Meaghan graduated this year from Toni and Guy, where she excelled in blowouts, styling, and undos.  Since her start at Verde Meaghan has been a perfect fit. She is a huge animal lover (and is now the resident dog-sitter) , she love everything eco, and is obsessed with fashion! If it's glitzy or glam- it's for Meg! 
In the salon you'll find Meg helping with appointments, giving the worlds best head massage, and helping the with basically everything while she completes Verdes training program. But Meaghans talents don't stop there! She is now a member of our wedding team. She is a fast master of beautiful & romantic formal looks. Meaghan is also working wonders with our Glo Minerals makeup line! 

In her own words!
Q. What is your favorite hair trend right now?
A. I love hair accessaries! Headbands, bows, flower crowns... they add more interest to your look. They are also more fun and noticeable than everyday jewelry wear.
Q. What would your dream vacation be?
A. Bora Bora! They have these cool bungalow hotels that I am dying to stay in. I would definitely bring my Glo minerals sheer lipstick in color Bora Bora with me :).
Q. Who is your celebrity hair and makeup inspiration?
A. I love Ellie Goulding! Her makeup is soft and simple keeping the focus on one feature of her face at a time. It is usually her eyes, and the look is beautiful!

Although she is a natural at everything in the beauty field, that's not our favorite thing about her. Meaghan has this genuine kindness that is absolutely infections. She is so sweet and bubbly that she literally lights up a room. The whole Verde community is in love with Meaghan and we are so glad she's ours! 

Meet Tia, Verde's July Featured Stylist!

Tia... Verde's next up and coming SUPER-STAR!

We are thrilled to have Tia as July's stylist for many reasons. First of all, Tia is going to be the next big thing at Verde Salon! Starting this fall Tia will be opening up to a full schedule, and with her skills and stylist intuition, she we be cutting hair and taking names in a serious way.

Tia's Product Picks for July!

Kevin Murphy's  Blonde Angel Rinse 20% OFF

Why Tia loves it?

Blonde Angel really keeps blondes bright and combats those unwanted yellow and brassy (the B word!) tones that blondes can develop. This conditioning rinse leaves blonde and grey hair soft and manageable. 

Glo Minerals Perfecting Powder 20% OFF

Why Tia loves is? 

I love Glo's Perfecting Powder because for people like myself, who get super oily throughout the day, the perfecting powder is a life saver! I can go longer without blotting and it works miracles for touching up. This is a clay based translucent powder and is prefect for any shade of complexion!

Another reason we are glad to gush is Tia is an amazing talent on our Wedding Team. She can capture a brides whole style and make them look their very best. Her calm nature is also so wonderful on a day where stress can run high.

Making another bride happy!

What Tia had to say!
Q. What is your favorite color/cut to give?
A. My favorite cut to give right now is a short textured bob. Nothing feels better than getting rid of dry ends and trading them in for a cute new bob!

Q.If you had to choose another career, what would it be?
A. I would be a tour manager for bands/artists. Live music is one of my passions and to be a behind the scenes part of that would be amazing.

Q.What hair and make up trends are you loving right now?
A. Summer time always makes me crave that messy, beachy, blonde hair! And I'm still loving the simple eye/bold lip combo for summer, it's easy and fun.

Q.If you could style any celebrities hair  who would it be?
A.Leonardo DiCaprio, he's got a nice head of hair and I bet we would get along famously!

Makeup by Tia on Tia

Tia is truly a Verde Girl in so many ways. She is an animal lover and the mom of some super cute kitties. Tia is serious about being earth friend and lives a super healthy lifestyle. Her style is edgy and unique and she is full of passion. Verde salon is proud to have Tia call us her home away from home. And don't worry, you'll be hearing a lot from this one! 

Tia and her beautiful Mom

Global Water for Earth Day at Verde!

Your purchase at Verde will help provide clean water!!

Its almost our favorite holiday.... EARTH DAY!! Every Earth Day Verde picks an environmental organization to raise money for. This year we have happily chosen to support Global Water. Verde will be donating 10% of all of our KEVIN.MURPHY and Glo Minerals purchases from April 7th to April 22nd. 

Global Water is a nonprofit Humanitarian organization that provides safe water and supplies sanitation and hygiene facilities to poor villages in developing countries. 

Over 1 billion men, women, and children do not have access to safe drinking water. Daily tens of thousands of them die from preventable diseases directly related to drinking polluted water. Women and children are normally tasked with the intensive labor of going to get water for the entire family by hiking to rivers, streams, or mud holes used by both animals and humans, which are normally badly polluted. The sad irony is that often there is life saving water just 100 feet directly underground. So what does this mean for us and global water?

Basically Global Water will go into these under developed areas and provide the equipment and knowledge to help these people to better their quality of life. Schools are given hand washing stations and children are taught the importance of cleanliness. After digging these wells and providing access to the clean water families are able to safely drink water without becoming ill. They are given life long tools and information to help communities stay safe with sanitation and hygiene facilities and facilities in schools. 

Sounds great? Well it is. Global water has been crushing it in clean water advocacy since 1982. After we have raised our huge donation, with your help of course, we will chose a project to sponsor. Global Water is excellent about keeping their website updated with all the amazing progress they are having. 

On a more local note, do you know where your bottled water is coming from? Most of us don't. Bottled water does NOT mean spring water (even if spring is in the name). 50% of bottled water sold in the U.S. is ordinary filtered tap water. Just like the water coming out of your faucet for, like, 1/1,000 the cost of bottled. Aquafina and Dasani are from municipal sources, AKA tap water. 

One of our very favorite local discoveries is Simpson Spring right in Easton, MA. This is genuine spring water with the minerals in tact. Simpson Spring dates back thousands of years (awesome, right??) and the water is tested 2x a week to meet the highest quality standards. We have been so happy supporting a local honest water source and thought you would too!

Simpson Spring 719 Washington Street rt 138 Easton, MA 508-238-4472