Nicole Manning recently earned the Vidal Sassoon Academy six-week comprehensive training certificate through an intensive program in Santa Monica, Calif.

The Sassoon Academy is the only such academy in the Americas, a news release said.

This particular course is a favorite with hair professionals looking to achieve a higher standard of classic/contemporary work, the release said. Manning learned new techniques in cutting, how to adapt those skills and how to achieve the best look for her clientele. She now possesses a bank of cutting techniques upon which she can draw on a daily basis, the release said.

Manning works as a junior stylist alongside other Sassoon-trained professionals at Taylor David Salon, an Aveda Concept Salon, in downtown Southern Pines. The salon is at 125 NE Broad St. Appointments can be made by calling (9100 246-0552.

Manning holds a North Carolina cosmetic arts license. She has also taken a number of classes offered by Aveda.

Her website is nicolemanningstylist.weebly.com and she can be found on facebook at NicoleManningHairstylist.