A Night of Imagination..Creativity for a Cause

A Night of Imagination is inspired by the world of an artist. This is not your typical Fashion show. It is also a Hair Show with Fantasy styles designed by Blondie, the runner up contestant on Oxygen's Hair Battle Spectacular. Ashley is always looking for a way to combine her creativity and her love for giving back. Creativity for a Cause was born! All proceeds from the ticket sales will be donated to the Non profit organization Wigs For Kids. They provide hand made prosthetic wigs for children that have suffered from hair loss. All wigs made by this organization are donated to these children at no cost to the family.

We will also be having a raffle event that you do not want to miss so come early! During our Sweets inspired cocktail hour we will be having a chinese raffle to win some amazing prizes of your choosing. All raffle sales will be donated as well to Wigs for Kids. Your Main event ticket will include a stub to be entered into a Cancun Mexico vacation giveaway valued at $4900!!

So, please join us for an amazing night of Imagination and Creativity for a Cause!

Tickets can be purchased in Advance for $40 and at the door for $50 (if we don't sell out)

Register HERE

I anticipate a great turn out so buy your tickets now!! Thank you for your support in the art of what we do and a cause that will make a difference! <3

Ashley Stone



For more info about Wigs for Kids visit Http://www.wigforkids.org
For more information about the services we offer visit http://www.salonalexander.com and http://www.beautyentourage.com

Runway - Runway TV Collections Fashion Magazine - Ashley Stone: Hair Battle Spectacular's 'Blondie'!

Check out an interview done with the owner of Beauty Entourage, Ashley Stone in Runway Fashion Magazine!

Runway - Runway TV Collections Fashion Magazine - Ashley Stone: Hair Battle Spectacular's 'Blondie'!

From working daily in her salon to battling it out on the main stage with celebrity judges, this year has been a whirlwind for Hair Battle Spectacular, frontrunner, Ashley Stone. She brought her talents in hair and beauty into the national limelight, this summer, as she became one of the eleven contestants chosen to compete for the $100,000 grand prize on Oxygen’s second season of Hair Battle Spectacular and now, the finale airs tonight, Monday, October 3rd at 10PM. Tune in to watch Ashley (the sole female remaining) duke it out against Bossa Nova and Nostradamus.

As a hair extraordinaire, entrepreneur, and television personality, Ashley Stone, may be best known as ‘Blondie’ on the small screen, but she has been making a name for herself in the beauty world for the past decade. This Connecticut native is not only a talented and successful businesswoman, as the owner of Salon Alexander and Beauty Entourage (traveling hair and makeup business,) but thanks to her efforts and determination, she is now an expert in avant-garde hairstyling as well. Blondie was a challenge winner from the first episode back in August, with her own take on Nicki Minaj’s Harajuku Barbie look. From that moment on, Ashley hit her stride in Fantasy Hair on the competition series and she never looked back.

We sat down with Ashley to hear the inside scoop of competing on HBS, the newest and best hair styling tips, and which celebrity’s locks she would like on her head.

Runway: How would you describe your sense of style?

Ashley Stone: My style changes depending on the day! I'm usually in salon attire and on any given day you can find me in leggings with a cute flowy top or a dress with high heel boots. I love a great skinny jean with a dressy shirt. Heels are a usual must for me! That is what I consider casual!

R: Who are some of your favorite designers to wear?

AS: I'm in the salon a lot, so I tend to shop for clothes that are fashionable, yet inexpensive. Most of which are not brand name. My favorite shoes though are ALDO. They always seem to have a confortable 5 inch heel I can stand in for 8 hrs. I have a major shoe obsession!

R: What are the latest hair styling trends?

AS: Break out your hot tools because a curling iron or flat iron will be your best friend. Loose wavy and tousled hair is a huge trend. Also, very sleek smooth styles are starting to become popular.

R: Do you have any role models or inspirations in the hair world? If yes, who?

AS: I love Tabatha Coffey. She tells it like it is and more times than not, she is very much right. I like that she has traveled the world and worked in many different settings. From those experiences, she learned and retained different things with her own twist. A strong successful woman is an inspiration to me and she has many successes in the hair industry. One of which is making herself a house hold name. She is memorable and I admire that.

R: What advice can you give to our readers that cannot afford salon prices but still want the salon quality dos?

AS: Take care of your hair. Moisturize and protect it. Leave in conditioners and thermal protectors when using hot tools is very important. The more damage that is done to your hair, the more you will need to see a professional to help you correct it.

R: How did you learn to do the avant-garde hairstyling that we have seen this past season?

AS: I am self taught on mostly everything I know. I have never done hair pieces such as the ones I had done on the show. I had never even heard of anyone using chicken wire or a hot glue gun in the hair! Everything I created on the show I was teaching myself as I went. I have done some Avant Garde styling previous to being chosen, but it was only with small foam shapes that were used in addition to the model’s hair such as a square bun or a ponytail made out of foam balls. I had never made anything that stood up vertical from the head higher than just a few inches until I was on Hair Battle Spectacular.

R: What was the most challenging battle in the series?

AS: Most battles were challenging for me because of my lack of experience with Fantasy Hair. If I had to choose one, I would have to say that the Finale was the most challenging. I had to make 3 separate hair pieces in a short amount of time, which was tough. Plus, all three pieces had to have very sturdy foundations, as the hair couldn’t fall off the model’s heads while they were dancing. Throughout the season, I was always able to get my hair pieces to stay on the model, but oftentimes, it came down to balance. Having the models dance was going to be a true test to the sturdiness of the foundation and it was definitely tricky.

R: What is was your favorite part about shooting season two? Were you a fan of season one?

AS: Every time I was in the salon it was my favorite part. It's what I was familiar with, so it was comforting to be there. I was always excited for the next thing they would throw at us and loved filling my brain with a million ideas that I could create. I actually didn’t really watch season one. I didn't really understand the concept of fantasy hair. The best thing I got from being on the show this season was realizing art can come in many forms. Some of which are misunderstood. Even though you might not see the artistic value in something, someone else does. And the feeling it gives is a positive one so how could you go wrong?

R: You have two successful businesses, was it difficult to get either your Beauty Entourage and Salon Alexander started or were both always a success?

AS: Beauty Entourage was always a success. I had no issues getting it going and things grew and progressed at a pace that was manageable. The risks starting up were minimal and there wasn't much overhead when I began. It was a very niche market and by word-of-mouth, the business quickly grew.

Salon Alexander, however, required more of an investment and a risk. It took time for me to build my salon, to make it unique and stand out from the other salons that exist on every other corner. With the determination and hard work, came very long hours, expensive mistakes, and lots of moments where I questioned myself. Ultimately, I wanted this salon very badly.

When I decided to open Salon Alexander, I had a full clientele who were loyal to me. Although that was enough to get me by, I certainly couldn't be the only one working there. No matter how successful I am alone as a stylist, it means nothing if I'm the only one covering all expenses. I spent two years covering the initial expenses, but couldn’t find the right people for the salon. Luckily, I was busy enough to eventually take yet another risk, by moving my salon to a bigger and more accessible location. Once doing so, the salon took off! I still work the long hours but, I enjoy them more now accompanied by other stylists in my salon just as busy!

R: What advice would you give fellow hairstylists interested in exploring their entrepreneurial aspirations, like you have?

AS: Research everything! There are so many more aspects to a salon than just doing hair. Make sure that if you decide to go into business for yourself that you love what you do. It has to become your life! Being a business owner is not a job, it is a lifestyle.

If you’re looking to have a business to have more freedom and flexible hours, then having a salon may not be what you should be doing. Explore all options before making any decisions. A business plan is important to have whether you need one or not. It helps outline exactly what you are looking to do and the reality of expenses. Always have an exit strategy. No plan is ever fool proof and things can happen. Lastly, be an experienced stylist before taking that jump to salon owner. I may have been only 23 when I opened my salon, but I was already a booked stylist at the salon where I previously worked. I had clients that would follow me if I left. Without them, I would have never made it.

R: What is one thing our readers would be surprised to learn about you?

AS: I'm a PTA mom! I'm proud to be a member of my son's PTA at his elementary school and I do a lot of volunteer work. I am a room mother. So every Monday on my day off, I volunteer in his class for an hour. Also, once a month I volunteer at the local hospital teaching women going through chemotherapy how to do their make up and style their wigs.

R: If you could swap hair with anyone, (dead or alive) who would it be?

AS: Jennifer Lopez

R: What is next for you?

AS: The Runways of NYC. It's been a dream of mine since I was little girl. I had my son young so I chose another route but, I'm still going for that dream! I used to watch videos from fashion week in awe of runway hair and one day I will be in awe watching my own work in person.

Press Release

Engaged? Come to Engaged Hartford!

Gotta love facebook. One random afternoon I had a cancellation and was reading in my Newsfeed. Came across a post from David Long for a photoshoot opportunity for Hair & Make Up. Of course, we contacted him right away, packed up our bags and hit the Bushnell! I had no idea what David was up to but, I jumped on a chance to have our work photographed by the wonderful Candace Jeffery and get to meet David in person. Little did I know it was a promo shoot for Engaged Hartford!  David extended the invite to us to join them the day of the event as well! After hearing the premise of the show I knew I wanted in! This will not be your typical wedding show.  It will not only be a great opportunity to get up close and personal with some veterans in the wedding business but, a great way to learn some insider tips in every category you are probably going to be looking into for your wedding day!  It will be a show you won't want to miss. Every trendy and chic bride to be should be there!

Ticket info here Engaged Hartford.  All proceed will benefit the Wish upon a wedding foundation.

Owner of Beauty Entourage, Ashley Stone, just announced as a contestant on the Oxygen Network!

OXYGEN TO PREMIERE SECOND SEASON OF "HAIR BATTLE SPECTACULAR" ON MONDAY, AUGUST 15 AT 10 PM ET/PT

Taylor Jacobson ("The Rachel Zoe Project") to Join Returning Judge Derek J and Previously Announced Host Eva Marcille

Eleven New Stylists Compete for $100,000 Prize

New York, NY - July 6, 2011 - Hosted by actor, fashion model and TV host Eva Marcille ("America's Next Top Model"), "Hair Battle Spectacular" is returning for the second season on Monday, August 15 at 10pm ET/PT. This season, the competition series pits 11 of America's hottest stylists against each other to see who can deliver the biggest and best in fantasy hair design. Part sculpture and part pop art, fantasy hair has become part of mainstream pop culture through icons such as Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj and Rihanna. Each challenge requires contestants to create outrageous coifs that resemble everything from Hollywood stars to hounds and handbags. The stylists then enter the ring to bring the drama and present their hair creations in a high octane and stylized performance. After each challenge, the judges -- award-winning fantasy hair designer Derek J, celebrity stylist Taylor Jacobson ("The Rachel Zoe Project") and a rotating guest judge -- critique the stylists on creativity, execution and overall presentation. In addition to blow-by-blow drama in the arena, there is also the day-to-day drama between the cohabitating stylists who fight each week to stay in the game and win the ultimate prize of $100,000.

"Hair Battle Spectacular" is produced by 3 Ball Productions/Eyeworks USA with JD Roth and Todd A. Nelson serving as executive producers.

Meet the contestants:

Ashley Stone "Blondie" Hometown: Newington, CT After leaving a traditional high school to go to a specialized school where she received a cosmetology license, Ashley planned to do hair only as a "side gig" while attending the Fashion Design School in New York. However, she fell in love with hair instead and never looked back! A savvy businesswoman, Ashley owns two businesses: Salon Alexander and a traveling hair and makeup organization called Beauty Entourage. Known as a trendsetter, she often hosts charity events with her big hairpieces serving as conversation starters. Her five-year-old son is her inspiration and motivation.

Tyler True "Atomic" Hometown: Los Angeles, CA After only four years in the business, Tyler has become a hair expert for Brazilian Blowout and currently serves as the Director of the International Education Team for the company. For the last year and a half, he has focused his talent on styling a countless number of fashion shows, high-fashion runway hair, celebrities and fantasy and couture looks. As a self-proclaimed "hair scientist," he concocts his own formulas for color, precision cutting, balayage, and up-dos.

Jeannine Calia "J9" Hometown: Providence, RI At only five feet tall, Jeannine, or "J9" as she is notoriously known, packs a lot of swagger into a tiny package! Having already racked up an impressive list of credentials including the February cover of Retro Lovely magazine and repeat appearances as a key hairstylist for Providence's prestigious Fashion Week runway, she considers herself to be the only real competition. Ready to compete, she can't stand famous stylists who don't have the goods to back up the hype.

Gabriel Quinones "GQ" Hometown: La Puente, CA Gabriel picked up his first pair of clippers in the seventh grade when he got tired of his brother's friends cutting his hair. In 2007, he established and opened his own barbershop, GQCuts Hair Shop, in his hometown of La Puente, CA. He is the official "Party Rock" hair stylist for LMFAO and the Platform Artist/ Educator for Johnny B Hair Care. A control freak by nature, he has tried to take criticism over the years when it comes to his work, but he is not one to keep his thoughts bottled up inside.

Alessandro Vole "Bossa Nova" Hometown: Beverly Hills, CA With his Brazilian flair, Alessandro is sure to bring the heat to this competition. His passion for the arts can be traced way back to his childhood in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He learned his love for hair from his grandmother at an early age and has been mastering the art ever since. One minute he can be a suave Beverly Hills stylist and the next he's dancing to the beat, recounting his partying at Carnival. A constant flirt, he isn't afraid to charm his clients.

Spencer Lebowitz "Camouflage" Hometown: Redondo Beach, CA Spencer began his career as a barber in the U.S. Coast Guard but quickly learned that military life was not for him. As a fearless hairstylist, he will try anything and believes he can accomplish everything he dreams of. Unwilling to compromise, Spencer is not one to bite his tongue when it comes to confrontation.

Kristin Jackson "Dimples" Hometown: Brooklyn, NY Growing up with a U.S. Marine for a dad, Kristin knows discipline and strives to be the best at everything. Her artsy leanings put a spin on her pink-loving, "girly-girl" personality. While some girls collect dolls, she gets tattoos of her favorites, including Barbie! Only three years into her career as a stylist, Kristin styled pop star Katy Perry's "California Gurls" video. She is a tireless competitor who loves to one-up herself.

Bethany Bell "Queen B" Hometown: Moorestown, NJ Growing up as an awkward teen from a single-parent household, Bethany didn't really fit in. Unable to narrow down a major for college, her mother suggested hair school, where she found her true passion. While building her career as a hairstylist, Bethany went on to college to obtain a degree in business. She believes that hairstyling is not just an art form but also a way to touch people and inspire confidence. After becoming close with two clients and their autistic child, she created a non-profit organization called La Femme Hair Exhibition as a way to unite hairstylists and creativity while giving back to the community; all of the proceeds are directed towards autism research. While she admits to being a little materialistic and a bit of a diva, Bethany strongly believes in giving back.

Kirby Keomysay "Nostradamus" Hometown: Omaha, NB With his uncle serving as his inspiration and mentor, Kirby was running his first hair salon at the age of 15 in his parent's basement. After finishing high school, he entered the Capitol School of Hairstyling and won a North American Hairstyling Award (NAHA) in 2006. With a huge ego, he is not afraid to tell you all about the nice cars he drives and the successful salon he owns at such a young age. His goal is to "strive for excellence" and isn't afraid to push the limits of fantasy hair. This sense of adventure and pushing the boundaries carries into his personal life, which includes passion for fashion, food and dancing.

Dnise Brown "Bronx" Hometown: Bronx, NY A former mortuary science student, Dnise has a competitive edge and isn't afraid to run with it. She prefers the freedom and creativity of working freelance and lets her work speak for itself. Born and raised in the Bronx, she is ready to take on the West Coast and show Los Angeles what she has to offer!

Brenda Waters "Mz. H2O" Hometown: Smyrna, GA Dubbed "The Hair Whisperer," by her colleagues Brenda has more than 15 years of experience transforming ordinary hair in to extraordinary masterpieces. Losing her hair at the age of 6 from a botched chemical service ignited her passion for hair. A renowned Atlanta stylist, Brenda's work has been seen on the red carpet and in Sophisticate's Hair and Essence magazine.

Avant Garde

Anything hair related you can pretty much consider me 100% obsessed with. I've dabbled in some Avant Garde Hair now for the past few years where I made some pieces for various charity shows I put on and showcases. All of which have been wedding related so far. I was lucky enough recently to take part in a reality show that involved nothing but Fantasy/Avant Garde hair.  So now the creativity is pretty unstoppable.  Bringing this artist to a whole new realm of art (because to me that is what hair is!)  Here is my latest photoshoot with Catherine Fiehn and her lovely daughter as my model.



Rachel Bastille:Make Up Artist



Hair by: Ashley Stone

It's been awhile since the last blog...Catherine Fiehn Avant Garde Photoshoot

I've been quiet on the blog lately :(   I've been away on some top secret stuff which I will be anouncing very soon.  Since I've been back I've been catching up on all the hair I've missed in Ct and of course it is Wedding season!!! <3 I will do my best to get back on posting our adventures on the road.  In the mean time, here's some fun stuff!

I did a photoshoot today with Catherine Fiehn. Catherine and I met 3 years ago where her daughter modeled in my first charity fashion show and Catherine came to document the day. I saw then this woman's talent is beyond what I've seen. She took random photos of the girls in the hallway before they walked the runway and turned them into a work of art!  The following year I was lucky enough to have her come out to a showcase fashion show and take more pictures and once again she worked her magic. I have been dying to collaborate with her again and use her daughter as one of my models. Our schedules always conflict and we kept putting it off but FINALLY we set a date. Today was that day. I knew when we both had the opportunity to just do what we want and focus on just one model the end result would be amazing.  I love doing Avant Garde hair pieces and most times, MOST people don't know what it is.  Here are some pics we have shot over the years at my shows...

Pictures from my first Charity Event

(Catherine's daughter Mary Kate)



2nd Show we worked together on.

And Finally today..An Avant Garde Shoot with her Daughter as the model, Mary Kate.

Stay Tuned for more pictures from this shoot. And stay tuned for more Avant Garde work to come!!!  We specialize in weddings but our creativity has no limits!!!! <3

Hair in all photos created by: Ashley Stone
Make up: Iralis Stone
Make Up in last shoot: Rachel Bastille

Video Blogging!

I plan on adding some fun stuff this year to the mix..Video blogging!! Here is our introduction to Beauty Entourage's First Video.

Hair Trials & Make Up Trials

Hair and make up trials are very important to have done. Reason being is it is best to make sure you and your artist are on the same page with what the final result should be. The trial gives you the opportunity to meet your artist, consult, and together determine what would compliment you best. It is helpful for us to know a few things before hand to have a successful trial.

For Hair:

My first question I always ask... How do you NOT want to look? What do you hate about your hair?
That usually can start me off in the right direction.

Pictures are VERY helpful but, can be the kiss of death if your not realistic in your expectations. If you show me a picture of someone with a very large updo with volume etc.. and your hair is only shoulder length then we arent accomplishing that look right at that moment.  However, a consultation for hair extensions instead might be the first step ;)

I ALWAYS recommend to arrive with Clean and Dry hair. I can always dirty it up if need be. I personally like to start with a fresh palette. It gives me more options. Oily hair can drop a curl and make volume alot more difficult to achieve or even hold up.

Bring any hair accessories you plan on using or just want to try out and see what it looks like. If you don't have anything no biggie, Just ask if you have questions or would like our oppinions. We do thousands of updos..litterally. I can easily tell you whats the trend in Ct at least! lol    I'm constantly scouring the internet and the runway to see whats up and coming too so please feel free to ask for suggestions.

Check out a past blog I wrote on 2011 Trends and accessories

My best advice is, if your indecisive coming into your trial, most times than any you will not be fully satisfied when you leave. You need to have at least a general idea of what you are looking for. As professionals we will make suggestions that we feel would enhance what is already in your thoughts but, we are not mind readers and we don't know you from any other day as to what your normal hair routine is. Don't ever feel afraid to voice your oppinions or your ideas. A stylist that takes offense is a stylist that should take a walk.
You hired us and it is our job to listen to your needs and execute them as so. Communication from beginning to end is the only way to a successful trial run.

We have a 96% rate of achieving the look our clients are looking for the first time round because we keep them well informed throughout the process.  I can't give away all our secrets as to what also makes that rate very successful, however, hopefully these tips can help you have a great trial or expectations when you book your appointment whether it is with our entourage or someone else's.

In final thoughts... When getting a trial your stylist or make up artist should always perform to the ability as they would the day of your wedding. If you receive a trial that is a "general idea" then that is not a trial run. You need the real deal so you can see what your hair does throughout the day. Test run that hair and make up. Make sure it lasts through out the day your just running errands or cleaning the house! That is hair and make up that will look fabulous the day of your wedding too!

Happy Planning :) <3


Pictures of some recent trials of ours.  (We don't show faces...We don't want to spoil the look for them if anyone else sees)

 Mermaid Waves (below)

 Spiral Curl (Below)

Shoulder Length Hair

(Added in pinned in extensions)

Upcoming Events!!

We are jammed packed for March Madness at the end of the month!! These are some of the fun things we are up to so come out and see us!!


March  24th~ VAZ Fashion & Fantasy~ The Society Room in Hartford from 5-9   The Salon Alexander/Beauty Entourage Staff will be in the Beauty Lounge giving FREE mini make overs and great discounts on products!! Come visit! Avant Garde hair on models in full body Paint!     VAz hosts a one day event that’s feminine, fabulous, & fun. VAz is an exclusive event that includes shopping, fashion, beauty, fabulous cocktails and free giveaways. Their team is dedicated to searching out fabulous trends and brands just for you! If you love shopping, socializing, and a fun night out with your girlfriends then VAZ is for you!

PLEASE GO TO http://www.vazinfo.com/ for more info and to purchase tickets*

*Part of proceeds will benefit CT WOMENS EDUCATION and LEGAL FUND
http://www.cwealf.org/



March 27th~ Fantasia Bridal Show~ We will have a booth as well as doing all the hair and make up for the fashion show!

March 31st~ Salon Alexander, back by popular demand...Blowdry Class! $30 to attend (includes a $15 brush) Discounts on your favorite products and professional hot tools if needed. Learn how to style like the pros. We guarantee you will leave with new tricks up your sleeve ;)  Space is limited. Call immedietly if you are interested 860-667-7722


April 2nd~ Beauty Entourage presents, "The Bridal Stampeded, Stomping out Breast Cancer!"    Support the breast cancer research foundation. Meet us at Bushnell Park in your running shoes and your formal dress! Wedding dress, bridesmaid dress...Whatever you have formal. All women feel empowered in their best dress and we want to empower other women in their fight against this disease. With more research we will one day have a cure. Awareness is everything and early detection is key! 

http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=6iahuwcab&oeidk=a07e3fldftre7133640

Vaz Fashion & Fantasy

Come out for a fun ladies night on March 24th at the Society Room. Beauty Entourage & Salon Alexander  will be in attendance in the Beauty Lounge offering FREE hair & Make up Services and great specials for products and in salon services exclusive for this event!

What is VAz?

Vaz was created with the idea for women to come out and celebrate themselves for a night of Feminine, Fabulous, Fun that includes shopping, pampering, socializing and entertainment.
These events encourage women to enjoy themselves with complimentary massages, drinks, food, goodie bags, and entertainment such as tarot card reading, henna designs, music, fashion and beauty shows, all while shopping from unique vendors seeing the latest fashion and beauty trends, home decor and products in a beautiful atmosphere.
Prior events include VAz Femine Fabulous Fun, VAz Beauty, VAz Fabulous Fun in the City, VAz Spring Glamour 2010, and VAz Fabulous Fun for the Little ladies, (A special event for girls 12 and under)  and VAz 1 Year Anniversary Celebration.
VAz events are always partnered with a charity. Some of the charities we have worked with are United Way, Food Share and Our Little Brothers and Sisters Organization for the Haiti Relief Fund and the Susan G. Komen for the Cure CT.
VAz’s next event is VAz  Fashion & Fantasy. Please join us on Thur March 24th  5 – 9pm at The Society Room, 31 Pratt St Hartford, CT

Please join us for a fun filled ladies night like none other! For tickets and more details please visit the VAZ website.

http://www.vazinfo.com/vaz/