About
I offer a thoughtful, educational approach to image consulting. My services include personal color and style consultations, skin care and makeup lessons, image updates, closet audits, personal shopping, and image consultant training. I've been doing it since 1990 and love meeting new people, the challenge of each individual look, and keeping up with fashion trends and advances in cosmetic technology. I am certified in the highly individualized Color Alliance and Signia programs as well as one of three Color Alliance and Signia trainers in the US. I offer products under the Color Me Beautiful, Adrien Arpel, Flori Roberts, and Gale Hayman brands. My home studio is near GMU in Fairfax, VA.
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Edna A.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I recommend starting with color and/or style and silhouette analysis. These are usually done as two appointments a week or so apart. Analysis is done at the first appointment, while at the second session, we go over the palette and/or image guidebook so that the client understands how to use it. A makeover lesson is part of the first appointment for color analysis, but is also available separately with a more basic color evaluation. I can also do on-the-spot evaluations for the most important factors when helping a client with her wardrobe or shopping.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I was originally trained and certified in Color Alliance and Signia in 1990 under Beauty For All Seasons. I have since refreshed my training periodically, most recently in 2013 under Color Me Beautiful. I participate in regular meetings of my consultant group.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Color Alliance and Signia for Men or Women are $150 each, and Personal Style Analysis for women is $45. I discount any combination of two or more of these services by 20% when done together. I also offer discounts for small groups. Makeup and skin care consultations are free with a nominal minimum purchase. All other services are $75 per hour.
The Color Alliance and Signia training program is $500 for 24 hours of instruction and requires purchase of a kit with the necessary materials.
How did you get started teaching?
I began immediately after my training in January 1990, working with individuals and small groups. I also taught with Fairfax County Adult and Community Education for many years.
What types of students have you worked with?
Most of my clients are women, but I like working with men as well, because I think I can communicate the logic of the system in a way that makes sense. I have worked with children and adults all the way through the senior years, and with professionals as well as retired and stay-at-home individuals. I have even worked with the blind, which presents definite challenges as my subject is very visual!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently helped two client choose eyeglasses in one afternoon at different optical stores. There is a definite methodology to this, and yet there are some fun surprises along the way. Many people have difficulty choosing glasses, especially since they may not be able to see clearly the frames they are trying on, so this has become a specialty for me.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure that your teacher has experience and training in the field. Too many stylists rely on their faith in their own good taste without the education to back it up. You also want someone who will teach you what to look for independently rather than relying on them for each decision.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are your needs? What aspects of putting your look together do you find most challenging? What has and has not worked for you in the past? What lifestyle situations do you need help with?