Natalie Fernandez is the founder and owner of Volt Salon, located in Scottsdale, Arizona. As a master stylist and salon owner, Nathalie has built a strong reputation for her work in customized color, blonding, and client-focused salon experiences. She is known for blending high-end technique with a welcoming, down-to-earth vibe that resonates with both clients and professionals.
At our MODERN SALON Boot Camp in Scottsdale, I had a short conversation with Fernandez that prompted this longer discussion around one of her specialties, gray blending.
Natalie is a salon owner and seasoned hairstylist with over 11 years of experience specializing in color, blondes, balayage, and grey blending. As the owner of Volt Salon in Scottsdale, AZ, she’s built a space that blends creativity, education, and client care. Beyond the chair, Natalie has worked closely with industry-leading brands, participated in brand campaigns, taught educational classes, and earned recognition for her artistry.
MODERN SALON: Describe gray blending. What does it mean to you?
NATALIE FERNANDEZ: My definition of gray blending is enhancing the beauty of the natural hair color. That can go in a few different directions. For a lot of people, it means they’ve already grown out their grays and want to enhance what they have. But then there are others who have been coloring their hair for years with permanent color, and they’re now at a crossroad—do they keep covering their roots every two to three weeks, or do they ride out the harsh grow-out line? Or do they find someone like me who can help them transition in a way that’s graceful and customized?
MODERN SALON: What got you interested in gray blending? Why specialize in it?
NF: Two things. First, I started going gray when I was 12. My mom found her first gray at 9, and now she’s about 90% white—so it’s definitely hereditary. My siblings started going gray around 18 or 19. So I really understand the emotional side of the journey. I grew out my own gray hair at 23, and by 26 I wanted a change, so I went back to coloring. I’ve lived both sides of it.
Second, there are very few stylists who truly specialize in the art of gray blending. It’s a specific skill that people really seek out. In the last couple of years, I’ve had so many clients say, “I can’t find anyone near me who does this,” unless they’re flying to someone like Jack Martin.
MODERN SALON: When a new client comes in interested in embracing their gray, what’s the very first step in your consultation?
NF: I listen—really listen. I want to hear why they’re choosing to embrace their gray. Sometimes it’s a lifestyle shift, sometimes it’s about entering a new chapter, or just being tired of salon visits every few weeks. I also assess their current hair color, their grow-out, their hair’s health. But truly, the first thing I do is hear their story. It takes a lot for women to reach this point, and I want to honor that.
MODERN SALON: What questions do you ask to determine the best approach—whether it’s full blending, partial coverage, or a full transition?
NF:I ask how they feel about their gray—what they like and what they don’t. I ask what’s prompting them to consider this shift. Are they imagining a full gray transition, or do they just want to soften the contrast? I also ask about their lifestyle and maintenance preferences.
Then I show visuals—examples of full grow-outs, soft blending, partial transitions. That helps them see what’s possible and find what resonates.
MODERN SALON: What are your go-to techniques for gray blending?
NF: Every client is different, but I use a mix of babylights, balayage, lowlights, tonal glosses, and sometimes bleach-outs. One technique I’ve really been loving lately is the AirTouch technique. It gives such a soft blend.
MODERN SALON: How much time do you typically book out for a first gray blending appointment?
NF: Usually 3 to 4 hours, but for more extensive services I block out 5 to 6. It depends on the client’s starting point. Some need a full highlight and lowlight service, others a bleach-out. I always want enough time to give a thorough consultation and really tailor my placement, toning, and treatments.
MODERN SALON: Do you have a favorite toner or formula trick that consistently gives you the perfect result?
NF: I have a couple! With Schwarzkopf Vibrance, I love using 8-11 and 8-19 together. With Redken, I like to use 9P, 8V, and 8T. It depends on the hair type and porosity, but both give a soft, beautiful blend that neutralizes warmth and lasts longer between appointments.
MODERN SALON: What should clients expect in terms of maintenance?
NF: It’s tailored, but I always recommend K18—it’s great for keeping the hair strong and healthy. The healthier the hair, the longer the toner will last. I’ll also suggest a purple or silver shampoo—something like Viral—and advise rinsing with cooler water. I tell them, “The better you care for your hair, the longer you’ll go between appointments.”
MODERN SALON: How do you help clients articulate what they want when they’re still unsure about “going gray”?
NF: That’s such a big part of what I do. I ask them how they feel about their gray. What do they like? What don’t they like? What’s making them consider this now?
Then I show them visuals—different techniques and stages. Some clients are ready and say, “I’ve been waiting for this for years.” Others are still processing it.
This is often an emotional decision, especially because aging is hard for women. So I try to make the appointment feel like a safe space. My goal is to take the pressure off and let them explore what feels right, without judgment.
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