By Nick Christophers
In the world of fashion and make-up styling is an art in itself. That would be the case for innovative stylist Karen Filos. Karen developed a passion for hair styling and make-up at an early age. She first began to develop an interest in the hair and makeup industry when she was a child. She always watched her mother transform herself along with friends and clients through hair and makeup. At that point of her life she wanted to be just like them.
Karen has worked with various celebrities. While she lived in Atlanta she cut many anchor people from CNN, WWF wrestlers and models for Elite. A few years ago she was lucky enough to meet and work with Judy Reyes of the hit TV show “SCRUBS” on the set of the feature film “Glow Ropes” a best picture winner in the NY International Latin Film Festival in 2005.
When it comes to Karen’s unique style she always pays close attention to current Fashions.
“I always incorporate my style and the styles I create for my clients. I keep them looking their personal best as well as keeping them up on industry trends so they never look out dated.”
Karen believes in today’s world more women want a sexier image than ever before. She looks at it as women want to feel beautiful and makeup is just as important as hair. “When their makeup is applied correctly they transform into the confident character they want to portray and it helps to bring out their best features.”
Presently she is working on a few projects. She is training younger stylists in hair and makeup. As well as working 3 days a week on clients in the salon, weekends traveling for weddings and is in the process of creating an editorial team representing the salon to handle hair, makeup, clothing and photography for artists in need of a new image.
Karen is always on the go and you would never believe she is a mother of four children. Some new projects in the horizon are with Lori Michaels. Lori Michaels is a recording artist who has chose some of the talented staff at Bella Rose Salon (Karen’s salon) for an upcoming pilot of her TV show. They will be accompanying her to Jersey City Pride and Key West Women’s Fest to do hair, makeup, and clothing for all her appearances and performances.
Karen has had many influences and mentors in her career too many to mention. “I have learned from some of the country’s best salon owners and educators and I thank my mother for first teaching me my craft and good work ethic.”
She has worked on commercials creating wigs for a “Dukes of Hazzard Promo” for CMT and key makeup and hair for the feature film “Glow Ropes”. Working with all kinds of artists from directors, actors, camera crew, etc. kept her inspired.
Karen has also done work with men as well as women. Men she admits also need and want guidance with their appearance.
Currently Karen works and owns Bella Rose Salon and Spa in Freehold, NJ.
She first opened the doors two years ago as a small four chair salon. Since then she has relocated to a space triple the size and has expanded the list of beauty services and talented staff.
“We are now a full service salon and spa offering hair, nails, photography, makeup and blowout lessons, massage, facials, airbrush tanning and a clothing boutique. I did not set out to be this big yet I have embraced all that has come my way and love the challenge!”
When it comes to recording artist Lori Michaels it has become an exciting project. Lori recruited Karen to be her personal stylist for hair, makeup, and clothing. She is so easy to work with and trusts her completely with her new style. Lori has also given her the opportunity to put together a photo shoot for her and the “Me and the Girls” dancers.
Karen had some of her editorial team do the hair, makeup, and clothing as well as photography for the shoot. The pictures for the shoot were such a success that Lori would use them for her upcoming promotions.
“I am so fortunate to have met Lori. She is an amazing person to work with. She has such positive energy and is willing to help other artists achieve the recognition they deserve.
I have not worked with other music artists yet I hope do so in the near future.”
Karen’s salon is not like any other. From its city loft atmosphere, exceptional customer service, friendly staff, and trend setting style it is due to spark a growing example. She always keeps updated and motivated by attending industry courses, motivational seminars and sharing her knowledge with our future stylists. There is no way to know where Karen’s next big idea will sprout but no doubt it will be a cutting edge style.
