We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad's 30 Under 30 contest, sponsored by Denman Professional.
Here, you'll get to know Zachary Travers (@zachdidthathair), a 28-year-old hairstylist and studio owner of Caché Petite in Boca Raton, FL.
Q&A:
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Zachary Travers (ZT): I’ve got a sixth sense for spotting bad extensions in the wild. It's both a blessing and a curse.
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
ZT: I started doing hair at 14, practicing on my brothers in the backyard with hair clippers from the pharmacy. Shortly after that, I went to hair school at 16. It was actually just to get me out and away from my high school half the day, as I faced a lot of ridicule and bullying — not only from the students but also the teachers. I guess my mother knew right, as it turned into an incredibly beautiful career. Those early experiences really shaped who I am behind the chair and taught me the value of truly listening to each client's story, as we all have one.
BLP: Who is someone you consider a mentor/role model in the industry?
ZT: Beth Minardi — I even had the chance to work as her assistant in NYC for some time. She had posted about needing a new assistant on my 18th birthday. It was divine intervention because, shortly after, I got the position and moved to NYC. Working under Beth Minardi was transformative. Her expertise and passion for color inspired me daily and shaped my approach to hair.
BLP: What is your proudest achievement in the industry thus far?
ZT: My proudest achievement in the industry so far has been working in NYC, LA and The Hamptons, collaborating with celebrities like Sally Field, Courtney Love and assisting the lead colorist in creating the hair direction for Tom Hanks in "Sully." I've also had the incredible opportunity to teach for Joico nationally, all before the age of 21.
BLP: What is your favorite piece of advice you’ve been given by a fellow industry/hair pro?
ZT: One of the best pieces of advice I’ve received is that there’s always something to learn from every client you meet, which has expanded my perspective and skills in countless ways.
BLP: What is a hair tip/technique you’ve learned that’s helped you be more efficient/successful behind the chair?
ZT: The biggest tip? Patience and becoming a better listener than I had ever expected. Just those two things really allowed me to connect with my clients and work productively through each service.
BLP: What is your favorite hair trend currently?
ZT: I’m thrilled that warm tones have re-emerged---natural auburns, warm brunettes and golden blondes are all making a vibrant comeback, each one just as striking as the next.
BLP: Who or what inspires your work?
ZT: My career itself is a constant source of inspiration. It transcends the salon, touching movies, runways and magazine covers. Seeing other artists work in those diverse settings fuels my creativity every day.
BLP: What changes would you like to see in the industry to better help hair pros grow and thrive?
ZT: I’d love to see a stronger emphasis on self-care, health and well-being in our industry. My own experience of working myself into a stroke at 24, developing TOS, taught me the importance of preventing such outcomes. It’s crucial that we foster an environment where no one has to go through that.
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
ZT: I don’t like to build glass ceilings, but how cool would it be if my name was spoken with the same reverence as Vidal Sassoon’s?
