
Contessa Awards 2024
Hair by Team Contessa;
Lounge Hair Studio
A FITTING FAREWELL -> JON PAUL HOLT
Martin and Lance were privileged to join an exceptional lineup of hairstylists from across Canada in paying tribute to the iconic Jon Paul Holt, owner of Avant Garde Hair Salon in Yaletown, Vancouver. Jon Paul was not only the owner but also a national and international educator, influencing countless generations of hairstylists.

The tribute, held during the opening of this year’s Contessa Awards, showcased Jon Paul’s last collection through the artistic talents of Myles Laphen and Tara-Lynn Fournier. Additionally, the opening featured innovative individual looks from a handpicked team, including Edwin Johnston, Norm Wright, Toni Ricci, Anna Pacitto, and Martin & Lance, that captivated the audience.

Martin’s contribution featured a multi-layered collection of decades of wigs, symbolizing the diverse hair inspirations shared by Jon Paul over the years. Jon Paul holds a very special place in Martins heart as the man who sponsored Martin to Canada many years ago.
The event was attended by Jon Paul’s wife Julie, son, and daughter, and the emotional induction of Jon Paul into the Canadian Hairdressing Hall of Fame left not a dry eye in the house.
The Annual Hairdresser Awards, held in Toronto, drew a packed house of elite and emerging hairstylists and makeup artists from around the country, along with international guests.

What are the Contessas? The Canadian Hairstylist of the Year Awards – the Contessas – represent the gold standard in Canadian beauty awards, showcasing the longest-running tradition of excellence. Since 1988, the Contessas have brought together Canada’s top talent to showcase their creativity in a photo-based competition. The Contessas are produced by Salon Communications Inc., the media company behind Salon Magazine (English and French editions) and the online platform www.salonmagazine.ca.