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. 

Standing in front of the salon, the team from 1630 Hair Artisans.

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.”

A woman in a green shirt and her husband in plaid stand in front of a retail shelving in their salon.

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.”

A large group of stylists in cocktail attire at a night of celebration event.

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

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 pose in all black attire on a photo set.

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.”

Lined up under the salon logo, the team from Ashley Mitchell Salon and Spa.

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.”

Dressed in identical Avalon Salon T-shirts, a large team of stylists.

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.”

Four stylists in black shirts and jeans pose for a picture.

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.”

Dressed in green scrubs, estheticians from Belliard's Salon and Spa.

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

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.”

Dressed in white shirts and light colored jeans, six stylists.

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.”

Looking at one another and sharing a laugh, a group of people pose on a tan couch.

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 poses in an emerald green top and white pants.

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.”

A group of stylist in a pyramid formation on top of pink towels in a forest setting.

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.”

Dressed in black, a group of stylists pose in the salon between retail shelves and big storefront windows.

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 a brick wall as the background, Dawn Blom is seated with her shears in hand.

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.”

One woman dressed in purple is flanked by her stylists dressed in black in their salon.

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.”

In casual dress, a group of stylists pose outside their salon in the woods.

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.”

Dressed in Fairy Tale characters, a team of stylists from Ellie K Salon.

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 in a taupe tank top that shows off a sleeve of tattoos.

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 poses with in a white cowboy hat and ruffled jeans.

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.”

A group of stylists pose arm in arm while looking at one another in front of a group of trees.

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.”

A group of women pose in front of Forever Young Salon.

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.”

A group of impeccably dressed barbers at Groom Guy

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.”

A team of stylists dressed in identical black Grove Salon T-shirts.

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  

Dressed in black, the team from Harlow Beauty pose in front of a black and white mural on a building.

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.”

Four women elegantly dressed in front of a tree.

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.”

Dressed in black and posing behind the front desk, a team of stylists.

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.”

Stylists work on mannequins during a class at Karen Allen Salon.

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.”

Two partners hugging in a salon

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.”

With skate boards in hand, a group of stylists playfully charge the photographer.

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

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.”

Gorgeous salon chairs welcome guests to their appointment at Lewis + Ivey Salon.

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.”

Dressed in bright colors, the stylists from Lillian James pose in front of bright artwork.

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.”

A large group sit around three tables at a restaurant.

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.”

Two women pose on a couch outside Little Fern Salon.

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.”

Posing in their salon, a team of stylists from Lola Hair Studio.

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.”

A row of salon chairs in front of mirrors at M. Hair Studio.

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.”

Maggie DiFalco and Jaclyn Gonzalez

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.”

A large group of stylists pose in the pale pink Mirror Mirror Salon.

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.”

A color bar is in the backgroud with double-sided hair stations and brown salon chairs in Neroli Salon.

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.”

To the left are many retail shelves full of hair products while the reception area is to the right.

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.”

Nicole Johnson

Nicole Johnson

Digital Content Strategist

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