Iles Formula Hair Talk Featuring Brian Bode From Oya Salon

Each week we feature industry hair professionals and have the opportunity to talk with them about their experiences in the beauty industry, favorite products, and inside secrets.  This week, Iles Formula Hair Talk Featuring Brian Bode from  Monterey's  best  Oya Salon  is one you won't want to miss.


IF:  Tell us what you think is the biggest challenge in hairdressing today?

From a salon owners perspective it is dealing with stylists. Running a salon and maintaining a brand has become a major challenge.

IF:  What’s the most enjoyable part of your job?

The Creativity of doing hair.

IF:  Why did you choose the path of hairdressing and was it easy to fall into this work?

Geri Cusenza, who is one of the founders of Sebastian Professional, is my mentor and my Aunt so I’ve been close to her my whole life. Hairdressing is in my roots; I was playing Hot Wheels at Sebastian when I was five years old. The experience of watching an international company grow was immeasurable. I’ve traveled around the world as a global artistic team member, worked hands-on for fashion week and have been featured in all the industry magazines. You can count on one hand the number of hairdressers in this industry that have effectively made it what it is today, and I believe without question that Geri Cusenza is one of them. The exposure I’ve had and grown up with has impacted everything that I do as an artist and a salon owner. It’s built into who I am, and it’s where I come from.

IF:  If you had not made the decision to be a hairdresser what would you have been?

Architect.

IF:  What is your greatest strength?

Working with people and my eye.. Being able to see shape and texture.

IF:  Your favorite hairdressing tools?

My Hands.

IF:  Tell us  about your relationship with Iles Formula. How you discovered us and which formula is your favorite?

I first meet Wendy doing a campaign shoot in LA for KMS/KAO. After working with her for a couple of hours I instantly was amazed with her talent. She is without question one of the most talented stylists I have ever worked with. Over the years I have been following her and waiting for her to launch this amazing product. My favorite product at this time is the Finishing Serum.

IF:  What was the most challenging job you ever had?

The launch of cellophanes. It was an incredible two days of bleaching out hair that was long to the floor, to create a stained glass look on the hair.. Amazing night with 500 people and a standing ovation..

IF:  What was your worst hair moment and why….Privatly or on set/stage or in the salon?

There has been several for all different reasons. However, overtime when I’m  on stage and something happens I learn a lot. Those uncomfortable situations are the times where you grow in ways you never thought.

IF:  If you could style anyones hair, who would it be and why?

Do not have anyone in particular..

IF:  Where do you pull  hair inspiration from?

I’ve learned to draw inspiration from everything. That’s something that Geri Cusenza has always taught me—when you’re looking at developing something new, you have to look everywhere. You look at architecture, at what artists are doing, what kind of fabrics are changing, color, everything. Even seemingly ordinary elements of everyday life can spark something in you. For example, in architecture, which is a huge influence for me, technology has changed so much. New lines can develop new types of structures that are more eco-friendly and sustainable, so I’ll think about how I can translate those lines into a new way to cut hair.

IF:  Your advice to young hairdressers starting out?

Surround yourself with the best. Learn from the best.

IF:  Thank you Brian for sharing with us your story. If you wish to know more on Brian and his salon Oya  follow on instagram @oyasalon.