When you walk into Alexander Hair Creatives, you will often see more than one stylist collaborating on a guest. That is not by accident. It is part of how we work and grow together as a team, and your experience is better because of it.
Ever wonder what the different stylist titles actually mean? We believe in transparency. Understanding the difference between a salon assistant, apprentice, and associate gives you a deeper appreciation for the talent, training, and education that go into your service.
The Salon Assistant: The Salon's Right Hand
A salon assistant is a vital support member for more experienced stylists. This position is often filled by someone new to the industry, sometimes even a student in cosmetology school, who is looking to gain real-world exposure to salon life. Their primary focus is on mastering the fundamentals and ensuring the salon runs smoothly.
Key duties: greeting guests, managing appointments, preparing stations, mixing color, shampooing, and providing relaxing scalp massages.
What they learn: salon flow, guest care, timing, and the core techniques they will build on as they grow.
Their next step: for many, the assistant role is a stepping stone to become either a Salon Apprentice or an Associate.
At AHC, we felt it was so important to discuss what a salon assistant is but also give our hot take on how it applies to us directly. We do not currently offer this position as we feel that an assistant might not have the fullest career path or most experience to meet their expectations in our industry as it continues to evolve. It is sometimes seen as a position where people feel “used and abused” and we shy away from treating or making anyone feel like that. We want every growth path to be structured, mentored, and clearly connected to a long, healthy career. If a role risks feeling like endless chores with limited education, it is not for us.
The Salon Apprentice: Learning Through Mentorship Instead of Cosmetology School
While the titles “assistant” and “apprentice” are sometimes used interchangeably, an apprenticeship is actually a structured, hands-on training program. An apprentice is a stylist-in-training who learns the craft through one-on-one mentorship with a senior stylist or, in our case, the salon owner.
In New Hampshire, an apprenticeship can be an alternative to traditional cosmetology school, offering real-world experience inside the salon from day one. It’s an incredible opportunity for stylists who thrive in a hands-on environment and want to learn directly from professionals actively working in the industry.
Key duties: apprentices support the team and perform services as they progress through the program. This can include blowouts, styling, and color applications. Everything is supervised until each skill is certified.
What they learn: beyond observation, apprentices follow a set curriculum with classes, workshops, guided practice, and ongoing feedback to build strong technique and client relationships.
Their next step: once required hours and certifications are complete, apprentices take state board exams. With successful completion, they transition to Level 1 Stylist. We will share more about levels in a future blog.
We are proud to offer this kind of career-focused education. It grows confident, creative stylists and elevates the guest experience.
The Salon Associate: The "Graduate" Stylist
The salon associate has completed their initial training in a cosmetology school and is joining the Alexander Hair Creatives team ready to work independently behind the chair, though they often continue with advanced education and have time designated per week with the salon owner to fine tune their skills and get them prepared for success.
An associate (much like an apprentice) is actively building their own clientele and perfecting their craft.
Key duties: associates perform a full range of services for their own clients, from cuts and color to styling. This is where their unique style and personality begin to shine.
What they learn: their education becomes more specialized and advanced. They focus on complex color theory, correction, and advanced cutting techniques to set themselves apart as well as business skills that support long-term success.
Their next step: with experience, education, and goal setting, an Associate promotes to Level 1 Stylist and continues along the career path.
Why This Matters to You
Understanding these career paths gives you a deeper appreciation for the skill, care, and education behind your appointment.
When you sit in our chair, you’re not just getting a service, you’re part of a culture that supports growth, collaboration, and excellence. By visiting a salon that invests in professional development, you’re helping shape the next generation of stylists while ensuring you always receive the best care possible.
We believe everyone, guest AND stylist should walk out feeling inspired, confident, and proud of the experience we’ve created together.
📧 Have a question about our apprenticeship or associate program?
Reach out to charlie@alexanderhaircreatives.com
We’d love to share more about how we grow future stylists right here in Derry, NH.