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SEARCHOn Day 9 of our 2026 SALON TODAY 200 reveals, a big 'Huzzah' to our first look at the salons, spas and barbershops that fueled their growth by mastering a number of best practices, including the fun team from Lavish Hair Lounge in Albuquerque, New Mexico. (P.S. The second half of Growth comes tomorrow.)
Posing for a branded shoot for a fun social post, the team from Lavish Hair Lounge with limited-edition skateboards from R+Co.
Lavish Hair Lounge
For a salon, spa or barbershop, it requires the mastery of a number of best practices to fuels sales growth, which propels the overall trajectory of the business. This year, the Salon Today 200 grew at the rate of 10.67% percent and above.
The team from 1630 Hair Artisans in Renton, Washington.
1630 Hair Artisans
1630 HAIR ARTISANS
Renton, WA
Christine Blankenship
2023 Sales: $601,000
2024 Sales: $688,000
GROWTH: 14.48%
SQUARE FEET: 1375
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 9
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $83
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: R+Co, Kevin.Murphy
COLOR: Davines, Redken, Pulp Riot
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Mya, Vish, SalonInteractive
“We thought we had a great system for tracking and charging for extra bowls of color that we were using, but the amazing back-end technology that Vish has implemented into their scales and apps allowed me to see that we were missing out on charging the fees for a lot of color.”
Amber and Chet Pope, owners of 27 The Salon in Mesa, Arizona.
27 The Salon
27 THE SALON
Mesa, AZ
Chet & Amber Pope
2023 Sales: $933,000
2024 Sales: $1,119,000
GROWTH: 19.94%
SQUARE FEET: 3100
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 24
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $85
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: JPMS, Kerastase, K18
COLOR: JPMS, Danger Jones
TECH SUPPORT: Boulevard, Vish, Salon.marketing, Goodcall
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA, Green Circle
“Our average ticket has increased through the KPI reporting, goal setting, and staff education. Through our education and transparency, the team continues to grow in add-on service upgrades. As a result, 32% of guests who walk through the door upgrade their service from stylist recommendations.”
The team from Acapello Salons at a night of celebration in Scarborough, Maine.
Acapello Salons
ACAPELLO SALONS INC
SCARBOROUGH, ME
June Juliano
2023 Sales: $1,498,000
2024 Sales: $1,746,000
GROWTH: 16.56%
SQUARE FEET: 1500, 2000, 1100, 1500
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 21
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $55
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Aveda
COLOR: Matrix, Aveda, Redken
SKINCARE: Aveda
TECH SUPPORT: Salon Ultimate, Salon Symphony
ASSOCIATIONS: ISBN, PBA
“Our success in the last fiscal year can be attributed to strong stylist retention and the rehiring of former employees. We focused on welcoming back individuals who had previously left to pursue booth renting, embracing their return with open arms.”
The team from All That Glitters Salon in Palm Harbor, Florida.
All That Glitters Salon
ALL THAT GLITTERS SALON
Palm Harbor, FL
Heather Goodwin
2023 Sales: $701,000
2024 Sales: $775,000
GROWTH: 10.56%
SQUARE FEET: 1200
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 8
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $65
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Alphaparf, Zenagen
COLOR: Keune, Redken
NAIL CARE: Gelish, DND
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Vish, Tippy
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA
“I personally mentored our two newest stylists weekly—one a recent graduate, one new to the area with zero clientele—to expedite strong results within just a few months. It was proof that growth isn’t about who you lose, yet how you lead the ones that stay.”
The team from All Things New Salon in Shelbyville, Kentucky.
All Things New Salon
ALL THINGS NEW SALON
Shelbyville, KY
Travis and Shanna Hernandez
2023 Sales: $455,000
2024 Sales: $544,000
GROWTH: 19.56%
SQUARE FEET: 2100
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 13
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $60
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Eufora
COLOR: Eufora
SKINCARE: Circadia, Clique Beauty
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Mya
“Our weekly check-ins focus on Marcus Buckingham’s Love + Work questions, such as ‘What did you love about last week? What are you focusing on this week?’ These questions keep us in connection with our team consistently and prevent drama and downfalls.”
The team from Ashley Mitchell Salon and Spa in Houston, Texas.
ASHLEY MITCHELL SALON AND SPA
Houston, TX
Ashley Mitchell
2023 Sales: $430,000
2024 Sales: $522,000
GROWTH: 21.40%
SQUARE FEET: 1200
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 10
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $165
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Aveda, Leaf & Flower, Ashley Mitchell Luxe
COLOR: Aveda, Joico
TECH SUPPORT: Vagaropro
“I sat down and asked myself what a strong team actually looks like inside my salon. Not a team of mini versions of me. A team of people who are trained, supported, and clear on expectations. That’s when everything changed. I stopped relying on hope and started relying on structure.”
The team from Avalon Salon Spa in Lake Zurich, Illinois.
Avalon Salon Spa
AVALON SALON SPA
Lake Zurich, IL
Bonnie Conte
2023 Sales: $1,663,000
2024 Sales: $1,869,000
GROWTH: 12.39%
SQUARE FEET: 6300
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 47
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $63
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Aveda
COLOR: Aveda, Goldwell
SKINCARE: Aveda, Ultraceuticals
NAIL CARE: OPI, Gelish, Gel-x
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Vish
ASSOCIATIONS: CC, ICA, PBA
“Avalon is becoming the go-to place for impulse and boutique gifts! It’s been a year since we jumped into the boutique business. This revenue stream has created a buzz and helped bridge the gap from slower hair and skincare sales since the pandemic.”
B. MONROE SALON
Macon, GA
Nichole & Kathleen Brewer
2023 Sales: $4,035,000
2024 Sales: $4,470,000
GROWTH: 10.78%
SQUARE FEET: 4000, 4000
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 95
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $72
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Kerastase, Pureology, Redken
COLOR: Redken
SKINCARE: Rowe Casa Organics, Farmhouse Fresh
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Vish
“A lot of our growth has been driven by showing up for our local cosmetology schools to ensure we have a steady flow of applicants, as well as ensuring we have a strong culture to attract future stylists to us. We are steadily interviewing and hiring.”
A group of stylists from Be Inspired Salon in Madison, Wisconsin.
Be Inspired Salon
BE INSPIRED SALON, INC.
Madison, WI
Kati Whitledge
2023 Sales: $1,480,000
2024 Sales: $1,652,000
GROWTH: 11.62%
SQUARE FEET: 2500, 1300
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 24
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $91
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Innersense, Amika, Kenra
COLOR: Goldwell, Pulp Riot
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Mya
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA
“One major winning approach to keeping a collective spirit between both locations was revising the schedules of our location managers. Each manager works at least twice a week at the opposite location to keep a pulse, influence, and connection with the team members at that location.”
BELLE CIEL SALON
Saint Johns, FL
Kelly Weary
2023 Sales: $1,279,000
2024 Sales: $1,534,000
GROWTH: 19.94%
SQUARE FEET: 3000
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 27
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $65
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Aveda
COLOR: Aveda
SKINCARE: Aveda
TECH SUPPORT: Meevo, Mya, Vish, Tippy
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA
“We have seen great success in our all-inclusive menu. The guest is getting what they need to achieve the look, and the stylist no longer has to go through all the additional services on top of what they were originally quoted.”
In Cherry Hill, New Jersey, the team from Belliard's Salon and Spa.
Belliard's Salon and Spa
BELLIARD'S SALON & SPA INC.
Cherry Hill,, NJ
Mia Harris
2023 Sales: $365,000
2024 Sales: $420,000
GROWTH: 15.07%
SQUARE FEET: 2500
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 8
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $100
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Aveda
COLOR: Aveda
SKINCARE: Aveda
NAIL CARE: OPI, DND
TECH SUPPORT: Meevo, Wix
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA
“We successfully transitioned from a traditional Day Spa model into a wellness-driven Holistic Med Spa. While honoring our holistic roots, we added hydration facials, advanced skin modalities, body contouring, and infrared sauna services…In the first nine months, this created close to $20,000 in new revenue.”
The team from Bloom Salon in Yulee, Florida.
Bloom Salon
BLOOM SALON
Yulee, FL
Brittany Bloom Estes
2023 Sales: $736,000
2024 Sales: $1,300,000
GROWTH: 76.36%
SQUARE FEET: 1400
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 13
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $70
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Davines K18
COLOR: Davines
SKINCARE: Comfort Zone
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Vish
“When anyone achieves a goal, we always celebrate. Quarterly staff meetings are used to praise our top retail and deep conditioner sales. I give gifts and gift certificates to our top sellers and praise them like crazy! When assistants graduate from cosmetology school, we make sure to take them out and celebrate the accomplishment. ‘Praise in Public’ is a statement a mentor taught me, and I use it every day.”
The team Brushed Hair Salon in Newburyport, Massachusetts.
Brushed Hair Salon
BRUSHED HAIR SALON INC
Newburyport, MA
Kerri Hebb
2023 Sales: $421,000
2024 Sales: $521,000
GROWTH: 23.75%
SQUARE FEET: 500
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 8
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $90
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Rogha, All Nutrient, Tri Design
COLOR: All Nutrient
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest
“Each potential stylist completes an interview process that includes a shadow day, allowing both the existing team and the candidate to experience whether it’s the right fit. This creates alignment and clarity before a formal offer is made.”
The team from B-Squared Hair Studio share a laugh in Sidney, Ohio.
B-Squared Hair Studio
B-SQUARED HAIR STUDIO
SIDNEY, OH
Bethany Metz
2023 Sales: $451,000
2024 Sales: $548,000
GROWTH: 21.51%
SQUARE FEET: 1750
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 8
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $40
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Maria Nila, Eleven, JPMS
COLOR: JPMS
SKINCARE: Farmhouse Fresh
NAIL CARE: Luminary, Luxa, Morgan Taylor
TECH SUPPORT: Meevo, Tippy
“One of the most impactful decisions we made was partnering with a coaching company. This collaboration enabled us to better understand our financial numbers, with the focus on expense management and profit maximization.
Kim Cloud, owner of Cloud 9 Salon and Spa in Bartonville, Texas.
Cloud 9 Salon and Spa
CLOUD 9 SALON AND SPA
Bartonville, TX
Kim Cloud
2023 Sales: $1,741,000
2024 Sales: $2,278,000
GROWTH: 30.84%
SQUARE FEET: 9500
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 60
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $65
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Vieso, C9, Kevin.Murphy
COLOR: L’Anza, Matrix, Redken
SKINCARE: Environ, Hydrinity
NAIL CARE: Young Nails, OPI, Artistic
TECH SUPPORT: Meevo
“One of the most exciting surprises of the year was converting six underused rooms into private salon suites—something I once swore I’d never do! Today, this thriving area gives stylists and spa professionals the opportunity to run their own businesses while staying connected to Cloud 9’s community.”
COLOROOM AVEDA SALON
Loveland, CO
Stefani Timmermeyer
2023 Sales: $1,006,000
2024 Sales: $1,207,000
GROWTH: 19.98%
SQUARE FEET: 1500, 1000
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 16
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $87
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Aveda
COLOR: Aveda
SKINCARE: Aveda
TECH SUPPORT: Zenoti
“We consistently hear positive feedback from new clients about our fun website and marketing…Our marketing matches [the services we’re known for]: colorful, down-to-earth, authentic, and creative in a way that doesn’t follow the status quo.”
CRAIGFIELDS HAIR STUDIO & SPA
Arden, NC
Brittanny Craig
2023 Sales: $306,000
2024 Sales: $471,000
GROWTH: 53.92%
SQUARE FEET: 2500
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 8
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $103
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Davines
COLOR: Davines
SKINCARE: Comfort Zone, Krx
NAIL CARE: Gel Bottle
TECH SUPPORT: Vagaro
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA
“Hurricane Helene hit our community in a devastating way…I called the local radio station and put out the info that we were going to make our washers and dryers available to the community and do complementary shampoo blow-dries while they waited on their laundry.”
The team from Cynergy Color Bar in Wake Forest, North Carolina.
Cynergy Color Bar
CYNERGY COLOR BAR
Wake Forest,, NC
Cynthia Perry
2023 Sales: $645,000
2024 Sales: $854,000
GROWTH: 32.40%
SQUARE FEET: 1320
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 15
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $61
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Davines, Goldwell, Virtue
COLOR: Goldwell, Redken, Pravana
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Vish, Trello, Fully Booked Ai
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA, Green Circle
“My team signs a 'sharing' contract. This gives us the right to display or discuss all team members’ metrics to help other team members grow. This allows them the opportunity for growth, an example to follow, and confidence that they are on a good path.”
The team from David Wenzel Salon in Springfield, Mo.
David Wenzel Salon
DAVID WENZEL SALON
Springfield, MO
David Wenzel
2023 Sales: $503,000
2024 Sales: $613,000
GROWTH: 21.87%
SQUARE FEET: 2400
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 9
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $65
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: R&Co, Ouidad, Wella
COLOR: Wella, Pulp Riot, Danger Jones
TECH SUPPORT: Boulevard, Vish, Reach.ai
ASSOCIATIONS: Green Circle
“My focus is the client experience and the team's health, and how my staff shows up each day for their clients. Next year, we will be adding new benefits, including mental health days, to be compensated outside of their normal PTO so they may have time to take care of themselves first.”
With her shears in hand, Dawn Blom, owner of DPZ in Litchfield, Connecticut.
DPZ Salon
DPZ
Litchfield, CT
Dawn Blom
2023 Sales: $632,000
2024 Sales: $704,000
GROWTH: 11.39%
SQUARE FEET: 2000, 3000
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 34
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $77
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Surface, Kerastase, L'Oréal
COLOR: L'Oréal, Redken, Blacklight
SKINCARE: Yonka, Glo
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Mya, Vish, Beautista
ASSOCIATIONS: HPSA, Green Circle
“We put more focus on doing consistent consultations, offering the right treatments, and following a clear service flow. Our numbers showed the impact of that work. From 2023 to 2024, one of our locations' service sales grew from $547,199 to $613,683 in revenue.”
Owner Sarah Mitchell and the team from Elevate Beauty Lounge in Huntersville, North Carolina.
Elevate Beauty Lounge
ELEVATE BEAUTY LOUNGE
Huntersville, NC
Sarah Mitchell
2023 Sales: $625,000
2024 Sales: $714,000
GROWTH: 14.24%
SQUARE FEET: 1500
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 6
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $76
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Eufora
COLOR: Eufora
TECH SUPPORT: Daysmart, Zoca, Tippy Salon Scale
“What really fueled our growth wasn’t just numbers on a report. Technology made us more efficient, education kept us inspired and on trend, and culture gave us the foundation to thrive. Together, they turned ordinary moments into extraordinary growth.”
The team from Elevate Salon + Spa in Charlottesville, Virginia.
Elevate Salon + Spa
ELEVATE SALON + SPA
Charlottesville, VA
Anna Woodie
2023 Sales: $896,000
2024 Sales: $1,056,000
GROWTH: 17.86%
SQUARE FEET: 2500
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 18
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $70
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Redken, Elevate, K18
COLOR: Redken, Matrix, Pulp Riot
TECH SUPPORT: Boulevard, Vish, Flowdesk
“We made a strategic shift to focus on deepening loyalty and retention. I began tracking retention quarterly for new and existing guests and shared that data with the team. Each stylist completes a quarterly self-evaluation in seven key areas that influence retention.”
The team from Ellie K Salon in Frisco, Texas, cleverly coordinated their Halloween costumes in a Shrek theme.
Ellie K Salon
ELLIE K SALON
Frisco, TX
Kerry and Amy Hovland
2023 Sales: $2,709,000
2024 Sales: $2,998,000
GROWTH: 10.67%
SQUARE FEET: 3000
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 27
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $91
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Aveda, Redken
COLOR: Aveda, Redken, Pulp Riot
SKINCARE: Aveda
TECH SUPPORT: Meevo, Premier Marketing
“We can fully give our best selves to our guests because we know that when we need help and encouragement, we can look to each other and it’s there. I am incredibly proud of this team for knowing that our strength lies in each other.”
Jacquelyn Rodriguez, owner of Enlightened Styles in Warrenton, Virginia.
Enlightened Styles
ENLIGHTENED STYLES
Warrenton, VA
Jacquelyn Rodriguez
2023 Sales: $297,000
2024 Sales: $346,000
GROWTH: 16.50%
SQUARE FEET: 1200
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 4
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $70
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Oway, Innersense
COLOR: Oway, Innersense
SKINCARE: Oway
TECH SUPPORT: Boulevard, Vish, Reach.ai
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA
“We focused primarily on Instagram and Facebook ads, using video reels featuring our top hair color services alongside newer offerings like facials, body treatments, and our head spa. We also ran hiring ads centered on our clean, sustainable mission to attract like-minded pros.”
Stacey Steffes, owner of Envy Studio in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Envy Studio
ENVY STUDIO
Lancaster, PA
Stacey Steffes
2023 Sales: $860,000
2024 Sales: $951,000
GROWTH: 10.58%
SQUARE FEET: 3000
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 17
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $212
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Davines
COLOR: Davines
SKINCARE: Comfort Zone
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest
“We’ve refined our service offerings, elevated our guest experience, and deepened our commitment to inclusive, approachable luxury. This consistency of vision has kept our clients returning and referring, allowing us to sustain healthy growth even in a competitive market.”
Arm in arm, the team from Essense Salon & Sanctuary in London, Ontario.
Essense Salon & Sanctuary
ESSENSE SALON & SANCTUARY
London, Ontario
Nicole Dietze & Angela Gagie
2023 Sales: $400,000
2024 Sales: $442,000
GROWTH: 10.50%
SQUARE FEET: 2200
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 6
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $74
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Eufora
COLOR: Eufora
SKINCARE: Verso
NAIL CARE: OPI, Ugly Ducking, Foot Logix
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest
“We know that our number one driver of new guests to the salon is our Google Business Profile. Because we track this data, we ensure that a major part of our marketing efforts and budget is focused here.”
The team from Forever Young Salon in Cumming, Georgia, outside the salon.
Forever Young Salon
FOREVER YOUNG HAIR SALON
Cumming, GA
Young Gorman
2023 Sales: $302,000
2024 Sales: $547,000
GROWTH: 81.13%
SQUARE FEET: 1100
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 9
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $60
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Surface, Brazilian Blowout, Sunlights
COLOR: Keune, Sunlights
TECH SUPPORT: Meevo, Tippy, Vish
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA
“One of the greatest drivers of our growth was the development of our specialty services. We invested deeply in mesh integration, toppers, advanced extensions, and hair loss solutions. We focused on meeting a need that so many women silently carry.”
FRANK'S GENTLEMEN'S SALON
Denver, CO
Lisa Franz
2023 Sales: $577,000
2024 Sales: $674,000
GROWTH: 16.81%
SQUARE FEET: 1800
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 11
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $55
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Eufora, Firsthand
COLOR: Eufora
SKINCARE: Wolf Project, Bearded Bastard
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA, Green Circle
“We simplified our retail approach. We focused on lines like Eufora and Wolf Project, trained staff to suggest products at checkout, and tracked sales in real time. This added tens of thousands of dollars in extra revenue and helped staff feel more invested in the business.”
GREEN ALLEY SALON
Austin, TX
Alli Wilkinson
2023 Sales: $429,000
2024 Sales: $544,000
GROWTH: 26.81%
SQUARE FEET: 1600
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 6
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $55
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Biolage, Matrix, L'Oréal
COLOR: Matrix, L'Oréal, Redken
SKINCARE: Bioelements, Farm House Fresh
TECH SUPPORT: Envision, Green Circle
“For each stylist to do their best work, a customized schedule was created for each employee. It became possible for a stylist to work only one day a week if that schedule fits best for them. Happy stylists create happy customers.”
Darius Davie and the barbers from Groom Guy in Washington D.C.
Groom Guy
GROOM GUY
Washington, DC
Darius Davie
2023 Sales: $202,000
2024 Sales: $326,000
GROWTH: 63.73%
SQUARE FEET: 300
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 3
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $60
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Daimon Barber, Stephen J Mondiale, 1908
SKINCARE: Daimon Barber, Enhanse
TECH SUPPORT: Square, Mailchimp
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA
“Placing Groom Guy locations inside hotels, like in Washington DC, gave us a huge, unique talking point and added a stamp of approval from business travelers, residents, hotel guests, and routine clients. We integrated it into our menu and service offering.”
The team from Grove Salon in Orlando, Florida.
Grove Salon
GROVE SALON
Orlando, FL
Allison Agresta
2023 Sales: $1,262,000
2024 Sales: $1,494,000
GROWTH: 18.38%
SQUARE FEET: 1487
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 15
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $65
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Aveda
COLOR: Aveda
SKINCARE: Aveda
TECH SUPPORT: SalonBiz, Tippy
The team from Harlow Beauty in Austin, Texas.
Harlow Beauty Salon
HARLOW BEAUTY AND HAIR SALON
Austin, TX
Misty Krant
2023 Sales: $1,320,000
2024 Sales: $1,478,000
GROWTH: 11.97%
SQUARE FEET: 3000
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 20
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $75
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Eufora, Kerastase, Lash Box La
COLOR: Eufora, Pulp Riot
SKINCARE: Eufora Body
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Fully Booked AI, Mya, Vish
Associations: Green Circle
“Book Club has become a really special part of Harlow, and the people on our team who participated and applied what they read in Unreasonable Hospitality not only elevated how they cared for guests, but they also saw it reflected in their numbers. On average, they had a 5.5% increase in their own retention.”
The owners of Hollywood Hair in Centralia, Illinois.
Hollywood Hair
HOLLYWOOD HAIR
Centralia, IL
Sonya Gettinger, Jessica Freels, Abbey Jones, Ally Deering
2023 Sales: $3,200,000
2024 Sales: $3,800,000
GROWTH: 18.75%
SQUARE FEET: 3000, 2700, 3000
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 57
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $60
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Davines, Nutrafol, CR Lab
COLOR: Davines, Evo
SKINCARE: Glo Skin Beauty
TECH SUPPORT: Meevo, Weave, Mya
ASSOCIATIONS: American Hair Loss Institute, Green Circle
“The key to increasing service and retail sales was the inclusion of every team member—from the sales team to support staff known as experience specialists—in setting and achieving salon goals. By involving the entire staff, the salon fostered a sense of shared purpose and motivation.”
JAGGED EDGES SALON
Batavia, NY
Amanda Lowe
2023 Sales: $597,000
2024 Sales: $734,000
GROWTH: 22.95%
SQUARE FEET: 1428
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 13
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $50
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Goldwell, KMS, L’Anza
COLOR: Goldwell
TECH SUPPORT: Meevo, Mya, SalonScale, Demandforce
“Strong relationships with our brand partners allow opportunity to bring in educators throughout the year. We typically host 8 to 10 classes yearly with outside educators for our team. We also partner with other salons and attend each other’s in-salon education.”
The team from Jessica's Color Room Salon in Crowell, Connecticut.
Jessica's Color Room Salon
JESSICA'S COLOR ROOM SALON
Cromwell, CT
Jessica Dudley
2023 Sales: $795,000
2024 Sales: $930,000
GROWTH: 16.98%
SQUARE FEET: 3000
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 15
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $70
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Olaplex, Moroccanoil, Aveda
COLOR: Redken, Pulp Riot
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Tippy, Mya, Vish
“Instead of losing guests due to strain on the economy and their personal finances, we like to offer an opportunity to get their service done with someone who is working on perfecting their skills while being overseen by a senior stylist in the salon.”
JOHNSTOWN BARBER SHOP
Johnstown, CO
Stephanie Podtburg
2023 Sales: $401,000
2024 Sales: $486,000
GROWTH: 21.20%
SQUARE FEET: 1300
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 8
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $35
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Zenagen, Mediceuticals, Reuzel
COLOR: Megix 10
SKINCARE: Reuzel
TECH SUPPORT: Meevo, Emma, Textel
“We put so much emphasis on evolving our company from high volume and low average ticket to a higher average ticket and lower volume. Our old model was creating burnout and exhaustion, so all our changes have been very intentional to change our overall model for our company.”
Education is in session at Karen Allen Salon in Riverside, California.
Karen Allen Salon
KAREN ALLEN SALONS
Riverside, CA
Khanh Nguyen and Katie Lara
2023 Sales: $3,645,000
2024 Sales: $4,102,000
GROWTH: 12.54%
SQUARE FEET: 2100, 2000
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 50
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $90
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Aveda, BOB
COLOR: Aveda, Color Space
SKINCARE: Lira, Aveda
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest
ASSOCIATIONS: ICA, PBA
“Introducing seasonal add-on menus has been one of our most successful ideas. These rotating menus keep our offerings fresh and exciting for guests while giving our stylists new opportunities to upsell treatments.”
In for the hug, Keena Ehman and Lauren Kunijo, co-owners of Kenna Kunijo in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Kenna Kunijo
KENNA KUNIJO
Charlotte, NC
Kenna Ehman and Lauren Kunijo
2023 Sales: $1,200,000
2024 Sales: $1,500,000
GROWTH: 25.00%
SQUARE FEET: 6000
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 25
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $125
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Davines
COLOR: Davines
SKINCARE: Agent Natuer
TECH SUPPORT: Blvd, Green Circle
“We have partnered with other businesses to bring them into our new salon space and allow clients to utilize our space as a one-stop shop in all things wellness and beauty, offering spa services and injections with brands already known and respected by the community.”
LALO SALON
Chesterfield, MO
Angie and Jerid Lorenz
2023 Sales: $861,000
2024 Sales: $1,025,000
GROWTH: 19.05%
SQUARE FEET: 2131
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 17
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $113
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Lanza, K18, IGK
COLOR: L’Anza
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Mya, Tippy
ASSOCIATIONS: Green Circle
“Our team co-created and signed clear, written non-negotiables on how we treat each other and show up every day. It has reduced drama, encouraged peer accountability, and become a strong hiring and coaching tool.”
LAVISH HAIR LOUNGE
Albuquerque, NM
Desirre Escobedo
2023 Sales: $1,498,000
2024 Sales: $1,756,000
GROWTH: 17.22%
SQUARE FEET: 2460
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 23
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $75
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: R&Co, BES Silkat
COLOR: BES, Staino, Redken
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Vish, Mya, Vish
ASSOCIATIONS: Green Circle
“To make parking less complicated, we changed the location of where our team parks and sent out an email on where our clients can find more parking. We received multiple responses about how much the clients felt valued and felt like we actually heard them.”
A peek into the gorgeous Lewis + Ivey Salon in Oro Valley, Arizona.
Credit: Lewis + Ivey Salon
LEWIS + IVEY SALON
Oro Valley, AZ
Jessica Ivey, Taylor Lewis
2023 Sales: $1,992,000
2024 Sales: $2,400,000
GROWTH: 20.48%
SQUARE FEET: 3400
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 24
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $70
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Oribe, Davines
COLOR: Wella, Davines, Oaui
SKINCARE: IS Clinical, Glymed
TECH SUPPORT: Vagaro, Wix, Gusto
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA
“The future of Lewis + Ivey is rooted in the same vision that carried us through since our 2020 opening—resilience, perseverance, and promise. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to being more than a place for beautiful hair. We are a place for growth, mentorship, and opportunity.”
LIGHTNING HAIR LOUNGE
Saxonburg, PA
Shelbie Moser
2023 Sales: $221,000
2024 Sales: $256,000
GROWTH: 15.84%
SQUARE FEET: 1400
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 5
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $55
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Leaf & Flower, Colorproof, JPMS
COLOR: JPMS, Danger Jones
SKINCARE: Eminence
TECH SUPPORT: Vagaro, Tippy
“My #1 priority was healing myself from the inside out so I could show up my best for my clients, my existing team, and my future team as I was working on recruiting. I took a coaching course where I became a certified mindset coach, and I went all in on healing my mind and creating a healthy lifestyle.”
The colorful team from Lillian James Salon in Turnersville, New Jersey.
Lillian James Salon
LILLIAN JAMES SALON
Turnersville, NJ
Jacqueline Pierce
2023 Sales: $648,000
2024 Sales: $751,000
GROWTH: 15.90%
SQUARE FEET: 2500
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 15
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $58
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Amika, Kitsch, Kevin.Murphy
COLOR: Kaaral, Pulp Riot, Blondor
SKINCARE: Fur Oil, Hydrojelly, Nufree
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Mya, Tippy
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA
“We added colorful and fun hair braiding for kids and festivals with rainbow colored extensions, hair accessories, glitter, tinsel, etc. We joined some online communities and paid for some educationon braiding and extension braiding to perfect the service.”
The team from Little Broken Things enjoy a night out together in Chicago, Illinois.
Little Broken Things
LITTLE BROKEN THINGS
Chicago, IL
Cassie Hamel
2023 Sales: $991,000
2024 Sales: $1,116,000
GROWTH: 12.61%
SQUARE FEET: 1800 2500
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 17
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $98
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Verb, Innersense, Redken
COLOR: Pulp Riot, Redken
TECH SUPPORT: Meevo, SalonScale, Tippy
ASSOCIATIONS: Green Circle
“Word of mouth and the community are number one for us. Creating a safe space with a welcoming, authentic vibe has kept us grounded and encouraged our growth. With that said, social media has continued to be a strong contributor to our exposure and has given us the ability to reach a larger audience.”
Owners Alysia Lambert and Nora Kornblum take a break outside their Little Fern Salon in Flossmoor, Illinois.
Little Fern Salon
LITTLE FERN SALON
Flossmoor, IL
Alysia Lambert, Nora Kornblum
2023 Sales: $120,000
2024 Sales: $200,000
GROWTH: 66.67%
SQUARE FEET: 800
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 5
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $75
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Davines, Milk Shake
COLOR: Davines, Evo Pro, Pravana
TECH SUPPORT: Square
“We are in a small corner space, and we work hard to make sure we are seen. This year, we put in a Little Free Library so we can share our love of books and our drive to be part of the community. That has brought us more visibility and connection with new guests.”
The team from Lola Hair Studio in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Lola Hair Studio
LOLA HAIR STUDIO
Cambridge, MA
Anna Walsh
2023 Sales: $1,298,000
2024 Sales: $1,441,000
GROWTH: 11.02%
SQUARE FEET: 1400
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 13
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $158
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Oribe, Evo, Redken
COLOR: Redken, Goldwell
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Mya, Vish, Tippy
ASSOCIATIONS: PBA, Green Circle
“One of the most significant changes was adding more layers of leadership to support the business and allow me to focus on strategy and growth. With guidance from our coaching company, Salon Cadence, our leadership team took on greater responsibility and ownership of their roles.”
An inside look at M. Hair Studio in Nashville, Tennessee.
M. Hair Studio
M. HAIR STUDIO
Nashville, TN
Mandi Paola
2023 Sales: $414,000
2024 Sales: $555,000
GROWTH: 34.06%
SQUARE FEET: 500
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 6
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $77
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Aveda
COLOR: Aveda
TECH SUPPORT: Mangomint, SalonScale, Connecteams
“I created an A+ Consultations rogram and Signature Guest Journey Checklist that became the backbone of the guest experience. They help every stylist connect, listen, and deliver consistency without feeling scripted. The goal was to replace guesswork with clarity.”
Mother and daughter duo, Maggie DiFalco and Jaclyn Gonzalez of Maggie The Salon in Pembroke Pines, Florida.
Maggie The Salon
MAGGIE THE SALON
Pembroke Pines, FL
Maggie DiFalco
2023 Sales: $920,000
2024 Sales: $1,195,000
GROWTH: 29.89%
SQUARE FEET: 2350
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 25
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $95
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Kerastase, KMS, Goldwell
COLOR: Goldwell
NAIL CARE: CND
TECH SUPPORT: Phorest, Vish
ASSOCIATIONS: ICA, PBA
“I educate the team and keep them current on the products and/or technology necessary in order to stay competitive in today’s market. Education has been the foundation of my business growth. Without education, there is no growth.”
MICHAEL RICHARD SALON
Kingwood, TX
Michael Alvarado
2023 Sales: $399,000
2024 Sales: $461,000
GROWTH: 15.54%
SQUARE FEET: 1500
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 12
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $75
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Aveda
COLOR: Aveda
SKINCARE: Aveda
TECH SUPPORT: Vagaro, Go Daddy
“We wanted to create a place that was more than just hair, to give more to our guests by pampering them. We changed our shampoo and rituals and introduced essential oils with longer scalp massages. I focused on not rushing our services and giving quality.”
Posing in their salon that captured our Salon of the Year in 2024, the team from Mirror Mirror in Austin, Texas.
Mirror Mirror Salon
MIRROR MIRROR SALON
Austin TX
Martha Lynn Kale
2023 Sales: $3,815,000
2024 Sales: $4,989,000
GROWTH: 30.77%
SQUARE FEET: 4316
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 43
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $85
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Oribe, Davines, Virtue
COLOR: Goldwell, Redken
TECH SUPPORT: Booker, Mya
ASSOCIATIONS: Green Circle
“We leaned heavily into leadership development this year. With a larger team comes the need for stronger communication and consistency. We introduced new roles—including Lead Stylists and an Apprentice Onboarding Specialist—to ensure that every stylist and apprentice has the support they need to thrive.”
An inside look at Neroli Salon & Spa in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Neroli Salon & Spa
NEROLI SALON & SPA
Milwaukee, WI
Susan Haise
2023 Sales: $1,210,000
2024 Sales: $1,356,000
GROWTH: 12.07%
SQUARE FEET: 5200, 4886, 7800, 4021, 1320
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 155
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $70
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Aveda
COLOR: Aveda
SKINCARE: Aveda, Ultraceuticals
NAIL CARE: OPI, Apres Gel. Luminary
TECH SUPPORT: Zenoti, Shopify
ASSOCIATIONS: ICA
“Our new service enhancement menu allows a guest, when booking a service online (app or web), to receive a variety of service enhancement recommendations that are curated for each service. Prior to this feature, the guest may have stopped at just booking the haircut.”
Inside Nikkicole's Hairdesign & Spa in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Nikkicole's Hairdesign & Spa.
NIKKICOLE'S HAIRDESIGN & SPA
Myrtle Beach, SC
Nicole Pisani
2023 Sales: $129,000
2024 Sales: $389,000
GROWTH: 201.55%
SQUARE FEET: 4100
TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 14
AVERAGE CUT & STYLE: $75
BEST-SELLING RETAIL: Redken, Alluram, Kevin.Murphy
COLOR: Redken, L'Oréal
TECH SUPPORT: Vagaro, Vish
“Our associates program is a great way to go into the schools, educate from the beginning, show the support, and be part of their journey. I’m going to continue to pave the way for a great stylist who can enjoy a team environment, feel supported, and have a work-life balance.”
It's that time of year again: SALON TODAY 200 Application Season! To celebrate our 30th anniversary we have a new best practice category--Talent Recruitment and Retention. Applications due October 31st!
The landmark, photo-based interior design competition has opened its application process. We'd love you to hit us with your best shots!
The landmark, photo-based interior design competition has opened its application process. We'd love you to hit us with your best shots!
At night, Dominic Michael Salon keeps the interior lights on, as the illuminated, eye-catching contemporary design serves as a billboard that consistently attracts new guests.
Built from the ground up, Mane 18’s design strikes a balance between an elevated experience for guests and the functionality and flow necessary for team members to perform at their best.
Andreas Hogue Salon’s recent renovation surprises visitors with the interior’s expansion of space, elevated retail area, and changing views of the restored Chicago prairie.
It's Day 10 of our SALON TODAY 200 reveals, and we've reached the end! Today, we toast the honorees in the second half of growth--the salons, spas, and barbershops that constantly strive to build stronger bottom lines, including Brandy Smith Stephens in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
A big "Bravo!" to the salons and spas that develop strong cultures that fuel growth while retaining team members, such as Soleil Salon & Spa team in Windham, New Hampshire, who catch up reading last year's 200 issue.
We tip our hats to the salons and spas that genuinely connect with guests and strive to elevate their service, including Chenica Racine and Ricka O'Bannon, owners of C&R Beauty Bar in Louisville, Kentucky.
Hats off to the 2026 SALON TODAY 200 honorees who make education a priority for employees at every level, including Eric Fisher Salon, which hosted Educator Oscar Bond for a cutting class in Wichita, Kansas.
Today, we have two 2026 SALON TODAY 200 categories as we hail the salons that find creative ways to build client loyalty and the ones that constantly explore and embrace new technology to further their businesses, including the social-savvy team from Verde Salon Group in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
For today's SALON TODAY 200 announcements, we toast the honorees who prioritize the environment in their business decisions and those who take retail to the next level, including the excited team from Pure Salon Spa in Louisville, Kentucky.
Cheers to the SALON TODAY 200 honorees who give their time, talent and fundraising efforts to their communities, including Eli Mancha and the team from Bang! Salon, whose cut-a-thon has collected more than 1,200 coats that have been donated to Chicago's unhoused.
It's Day 1 of our 2026 SALON TODAY 200 announcements, and today, we raise our glasses for the honorees in the Business Builders category. These salons, including Elan Hair Studio in Spring Lake, New Jersey, took strategic risks that paid off in revenue-generating success.
It's time to celebrate the 2026 SALON TODAY 200 honorees who design rewarding career paths and seek out enriching benefits to keep their team members healthy, happy and growing, including the team from Pinup Studio in Raleigh, North Carolina, who always enjoy a good pajama party.
With a training salon, treatment rooms, education and collaboration spaces, a podcast studio and a yoga studio, BASE ONE is the foundation for the future growth of PENZONE Salons+Spas, as well as the company's gift to their community and the industry. Peruse the image gallery or take the personalized video tour led by Debra Penzone to see this exceptional space.
As our judges read those last essays and create their list of honorees in each category, we're planning to start announce the 2026 SALON TODAY 200 starting February 25.
