Gary Baker’s feet rarely touch the ground. He’s the global creative director for Unite Hair and, just last month, led the most recent Runway Ready course at Lacey’s HQ. Respect For Hair happily attended Runway Ready and learned first-hand what goes on in this session-styling focussed seminar event. Read on as we catch up with Gary Baker to debrief following the course.
Gary Baker’s feet rarely touch the ground…

Respect For Hair: Runway Ready is gaining momentum in the UK, why do you think this is?
Gary: It’s because we’ve done the Runway Ready course for a few seasons now and it has a great reputation. It’s addictive for the stylists who have been before, so they want to come back. Also, the general awareness of Unite Hair has grown in the UK.
Tell us how this recent Runway Ready course went, Gary…
Amazing! The course attendees were into it from the get-go and took everything on board very well. They had such a positive approach and learnt more than they realised.

It’s clear you’re excited about the opportunities for these students at London Fashion Week in September, what can they expect?
They can expect a great time. They are not just doing one show at Fashion week, they are doing six or seven. So, it’s a great introduction to working backstage! They are going to meet people who have worked at Fashion Week previously, and get some great experiences. They will also get some amazing social networking opportunities to take back to the salon.

The next Runway Ready course is January 2nd & 3rd 2024, why should people book now?
Hairdressers are notorious for doing everything last minute but people should book the next Runway Ready course now. Because it’s around Christmas, the course comes around extremely quickly, so just be aware of it. Also, the people who take the course again book early so spaces get very limited.
You’re fresh back from leading the hair teams at Miami swim week. Then delivered an inspirational Runway Ready here, now heading to the airport in readiness for the first ever Runway Ready course in Germany. After this it’s back to the US for Runway Ready New York – where do you find your energy & drive?
I’ve always been like that. I just embrace the busy schedule. You can worry about sleeping when you’re dead!

The next Fashion Week for you is New York. What Unite products are your staples for backstage work?
Easy, the ones I can’t live without are U: Dry Fresh, Silky: Smooth and our new hairspray BOOSTA. This spray is invaluable, it’s an amazing setting-spray, and great for finishing hairstyles.
Thanks to Gary for taking the time to debrief after the most recent Runway Ready course. Eager to book yourself a space on the next Runway Ready course? Click here
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