Blake Reed Evans Pro

Walking onto the Symposium 2026 Main Stage for the very first time is a moment I will never forget.

This week was filled with so many highlights. The incredible education, the conversations in the Education Gallery, the energy of the Grand Opening led by Matt Swinney, and an unforgettable Electri-City Bash. Every moment reminded me why this industry is so special.

But my favorite part wasn’t standing on stage.

It was meeting so many of you in real life.

For years, we’ve connected through videos, comments, DMs, and shared passion for our craft. This week, those online connections became real conversations, hugs, photos, and memories. What started on a screen became something so much bigger in person.

To everyone who watches, shares, comments, attends classes, and supports what I create: thank you. None of this happens without you. Every opportunity I’ve been given is because you’ve chosen to be part of this journey.

So as Symposium comes to a close, I’m left with one question…

What’s next? ✨ Thank you SalonCentric for letting me takeover!

Introducing 🔬 BTS: Behind The Science with me, Blake Reed Evans!

I’m so excited to partner with on this new series as a longtime who loves to make haircolor science simple ✨

In this first episode I talk about something I’ve been hearing a lot: “Why does Shades ALK look so dark?”

Here’s a quick breakdown of how to get optimal results:
🖤 Mix at a 1 to 1:5 ratio with its intended developer: 10 Vol Pro-oxide Cream Developer
🖤 Understand your starting canvas: if the hair is super light or gray, the results well appear later if the canvas is dark, then the color can appear darker.
🖤 Reflects matter! Ash tones will naturally look deeper and cooler

What other science questions do you want me to tackle in upcoming episodes? Let me know 👇

Still processing this one a little…

Getting to teach independently at Premiere Orlando for the first time was a pretty special moment for me. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share, connect, and spend time with so many talented people in an industry that I care so much about.

A huge thank you to for having me at Premiere Orlando, and thank you to and for having me as well. It means a lot to be trusted in spaces that support education, growth, and the future of our industry.

Experiences like this are such a reminder of why I love education and building community, which is a big part of what makes Hair Escape in Costa Rica every February so special, too🌴

Feeling grateful, inspired, and excited for what’s next! ✨

One of my favorite ways to create that soft, expensive, “born-with-it” blonde is with a Scandi Hairline.

Personally, I reserve this technique for guests who are a natural level 7 or higher. The goal is to create those ultra-bright, delicate hairs around the face that mimic the way children’s hair naturally lightens in the sun. When used on the right guest, it creates the illusion of a naturally brighter hairline without looking stripey or over-highlighted.

My go-to for this technique is Redken Blonde IQ 8 mixed with Pro-Oxide Oil Developer.

Why Blonde IQ 8? 👇

✨ Up to 8 levels of lift
✨ Built with Advanced Neutralization Technology
✨ Consistent, predictable lift
✨ Ideal for precision work where clean, controlled lightening matters

You MUST use pro-oxide oil developer for the lightener and the technology to work!

Remember, a Scandi Hairline isn’t about adding more highlights. It’s about creating the illusion of naturally brighter hair where the sun would hit first.

🎉 GIVEAWAYS + EDUCATION

I’ll be at Orlando this weekend teaching one of my favorite classes, and 50 people in EACH session will receive giveaways from , , and . 🖤

🧪 SATURDAY
10:00 AM–11:00 AM
Acidic vs Alkaline: Next Level
📍 Room 414B
🧪 SUNDAY
1:00 PM–2:00 PM
Acidic vs Alkaline: Next Level
📍 Room 414A

This class goes beyond the basics and dives into the why behind it all. We’ll break down how acidic and alkaline color systems behave differently, how to formulate with more intention, and even how lighting can completely change the way your hair color is perceived.

If you’re coming to Premiere, be sure to arrive early, grab a seat, and hopefully leave with some amazing goodies. I can’t wait to see everyone and talk all things hair color. 🖤

Headed to ORLANDO✨ this weekend and I cannot wait to spend time with so many incredible stylists, artists, salon owners, students, and friends. 🖤

This industry has truly changed my life, and getting to pour back into it through education is something I never take lightly. If you’re coming to the show, here’s where you can find me:

SATURDAY

🧪 10:00 AM–11:00 AM
Acidic vs Alkaline: Next Level
📍 Room 414B

💬 3:45 PM–5:00 PM
Beacon Round Table with

✨ 5:30 PM–9:00 PM
Gala with

SUNDAY

🧪 1:00 PM–2:00 PM
Acidic vs Alkaline: Next Level
📍 Room 414A

PLUS… 👀
50 people in EACH session will receive giveaways from , , and 🖤

The “Acidic vs Alkaline” class is one of my favorite classes I’ve ever built because it’s not just about learning rules… it’s about actually understanding WHY products behave the way they do behind the chair so you can formulate with more intention, confidence, and customization. This year, we added a segment on how lighting impacts hair color.

If you see me this weekend please come say hi 🖤 I’m really looking forward to connecting with everyone.