Revlon Professional kicked 2023 off to a great start with the opening of its all-new Academy in Paris. The new space, featuring a dedicated American Crew Academy launched on 26 January 2023. To celebrate the occasion, American Crew Founder, David Raccuglia flew in from the USA for a once-in-a-lifetime photoshoot with some of the brightest stars of the American Crew community across Europe.
UK and Ireland Lead American Crew Allstar Educator Ian Harrold was on hand to assist clients from the UK and Ireland to shoot their work with David and make sure they captured images to be proud of. The lucky barbers included Brian Hackett from Figaro Barbershop, Limerick; Franco Lombardi of Franco’s Barbershop, Bristol; plus, Alex Wakefield and Bobby Gordon from Fella’s Barbershop, based in London and on the south coast.
The three groups had to design a hairstyle, a look, and a full product story, which they – alongside their models – then brought to life in an hour-long slot with David behind the lens. Ian comments: “I was on hand to give guidance where needed on product solutions to enhance their hairstyles, and to coach the guys to make sure they were happy with the hair as it was being shot and to encourage them to tweak the hair where necessary.”
The event allowed clients from across Europe to meet, interact, exchange ideas, and share experiences. But the real highlight for all involved was receiving a portfolio shot by David Raccuglia himself. David Raccuglia is a trained barber, salon owner, entrepreneur, professional photographer, creative director, and beauty industry executive, but is best known for being the Founder of American Crew – the leading men’s professional grooming brand, which pioneered the modern men’s professional grooming industry.
Ian added: “The whole day from start to finish was amazing. The biggest highlight of the trip for me was sitting with the group after the shoot and seeing how thrilled they were with the work they had achieved. American Crew is more than just a product company and my role as an Allstar is about developing people. Clients come to us with some doubts, we listen, guide them to believe they can, and we build trust. This is what creates our community.”
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