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About Douglas J Aveda Institute Grand Rapids

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Next class start dates:

Cosmetology: February 11, 2020

Esthiology: February 3, 2020

Address

138 Commerce Ave SW
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503
Admissions: 877.311.8957
Guest Services: 616.808.3078

Programs Offered

Cosmetology
Esthiology

Service Hours

Monday: 5pm – 10pm
Tuesday: 9:30am – 10pm
Wednesday-Friday: 9am – 10pm
Saturday: 9am – 4:30pm

Retail Hours

Monday: 9am – 10pm
Tuesday-Friday: 9am – 10pm
Saturday: 9am – 4:30pm

Launched in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids in 2007, the historic post office is our home — known for its unique artwork embedded in the façade. This high-energy area, with a ton of foot traffic, is situated in an up-and-coming area and within walking distance to the Van Andel Stadium. Rated as one of the best places to raise a family, thousands flock to Grand Rapids in the fall to participate in Art Prize, a community event we’re proud to be involved in, as well as many other local charities, including Miranda’s Beautiful U, which focuses on positive self-esteem for school-aged girls.

The Grand Rapids Difference

Our People

Several of our team have over 15 years’ experience and teach for Aveda or are Technical Education Coaches
Our team regularly participates in Advanced Education Classes
We are often involved in community events for local schools and businesses as well as various charitable events

Our Place

Large, two-story retail area with vintage brick walls opens to a expansive clinic floor with 60 styling stations
Two full classrooms and one convertible classroom
Industrial loft-style feel with original glass garage doors that open to a patio
Student break room located in the upstairs loft
Luxury spa setting for facials and nail services
Day and evening classes offered in Cosmetology and Esthiology

What advice would you give a student?
Assist after you graduate! I was an assistant at a salon with hairstylists from other schools and because of the strong foundation I received at Douglas J, my education definitely put me ahead. I learned so much and had such a solid background, I was able to create my own style. I’m an artist, I look at hair as a sculpture and know I can’t cut everyone’s hair the same way. If a person really wants to succeed, they have to grow beyond the basics and they prepared me to do just that.

- Sarah Dilley-Couture, Douglas J Aveda Institute Graduate and Salon Owner

A couple weeks after graduation, I received a call from someone that was opening a new salon. She said that she heard great things about me from friends and also loved the fact that I was Aveda trained and offered me a job right away.

- Justin Gentges, Douglas J Aveda Institute Graduate

Childhood Dream: Taylor has always wanted to have a career in the cosmetology field, but waited until she was a little older to pursue it. Homegrown Talent: She started at Douglas J because she heard it was the best education in Grand Rapids, where she wants to continue to live and work after she completes her program — and contribute to the incredible growth happening in Grand Rapids.

- Taylor Cabala, Douglas J Aveda Institute Grand Rapids Student

Shaelyn’s Inspiration: At a young age, she developed an interest in hair and makeup while spending time with her aunt, who worked in an Aveda salon. She'd never considered a career in the beauty industry, but as she was putting more thought into her career choices, she decided to give it a try. Raising the Bar: She chose Douglas J because it was the most professional — holding her to higher standards than other schools she visited.

- Shaelyn Bunner, Douglas J Aveda Institute Grand Rapids Student

Choosing to train with Douglas J is not just attending cosmetology school, it's the first step in building a career.

- VIRGINIA MEYER, FORMER VP OF EDUCATION, AVEDA CORPORATE CO-FOUNDERS OF REDCHOCOLATE:tm:

The Douglas J team offers a complete system of excellence and support for every student in every facet of education. From the quality of the educators, to the relationship with salon owners seeking talent, to the network of global artists affiliated with the company, everyone is completely committed to developing the student to their highest potential. We give Douglas J education system our highest endorsement.

- DAVID ADAMS, FORMER TECHNICAL ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, AVEDA CORPORATE