Hair Escape, the exclusive retreat designed to provide a space for hairstylists to recharge, learn and connect, held its debut event at Gracias Madre in Jaco, Costa Rica in late February, receiving rave reviews from the industry and providing a spectacular backdrop for guests to relax and unwind. The one-of-a-kind experience blended education, wellness and business development, inspiring and empowering attendees. While there are various events dedicated to hairstyling, Hair Escape offered a unique opportunity for professionals in the industry, providing them with a space to step away from the hustle and bustle of their daily routine and invest in their personal and professional growth.
With a focus on self-care, Hair Escape blended learning, growth, adventure and relaxation by providing guests with a host of activities throughout the event. From educational workshops covering essential skills, such as product development and color techniques, to sessions on how to build a sustainable career, the retreat aimed to empower attendees in their professional lives.
With a focus on self-care, Hair Escape blended learning, growth, adventure and relaxation by providing guests with a host of activities throughout the event.Courtesy of Blake Reed Evans
Attendees were also able to focus on their personal growth, with various wellness sessions, such as yoga, meditation and mindset coaching, which were specifically tailored to support the physical and mental well-being of hairstylists. It wasn’t all work, though, with guests also able to enjoy a number of excursion and bonding experiences, including surfing, jungle ATV adventures and a charted boating trip!
The Hair Escape retreat was hosted by Blake Reed Evans (@blakereedevans), an educator, influencer and part owner of Shear Art Salons, in collaboration with industry icon and owner of Gracias Madre Sheri Doss (@sheridoss). Educational sessions were led by Deb Rosenberg (@deblovescoco) and Laura Frazier (@hairzillaa).
Speaking after the retreat, Blake Reed Evans said, “The maiden Hair Escape retreat was a huge success, and I would firstly like to say a huge thank you to all of our guests and session leaders for making it such a wonderful experience. The event was born from my passion for community, travel and elevating the beauty industry through education, and it was fantastic to see it so warmly received. I wanted to provide an event that blended education, wellness, business, adventure and relaxation, and the feedback we have received indicates we did just that, with many attendees already expressing excitement for the next one.”
Session leader Laura Frazier added, “Hair Escape was more than just a retreat — it was a transformative experience where hairstylists and wellness seekers reconnected with their purpose and their life plans. Through meditation, breath work and limiting belief unblocking, I helped attendees shed self-doubt and step into their power. The time we spent on wellness left everyone feeling fresh, inspired and truly empowered. Facilitating this part of the journey was an honor, and I can’t wait to bring this experience to more retreats.”
For more information on future Hair Escape retreats, visit Blake Reed Evans' website.
