Salon life:

1984: Owned Hair Incorporated—two locations in Naperville, Illinois (1,500 and 1,700 square feet)

2004: Own Frank Gironda Salon and Day Spa—three locations in Illinois; one in Wheaton (7,500 square feet) and two in Naperville (5,500 and 3,000 square feet)
Price of hair cut:

1984: $23-$35

2004: $35-$75
Number of staff:

1984:30

2004: 130
Mentors:

1984: Mario Tricoci. He’s always been the one to watch in the Chicago area. We’ve since become great friends.

2004:My wife, Sherri, and my daughter, Laura, who have helped open my mind to modern day business and the needs of younger people. My close friends and golf buddies, most of whom are successful entrepreneurs and business owners.
Growth goals:

1984: To open a third salon in 1986 and to create a reputation not only for quality work but great service. I also wanted to create a strong employee benefits program

2004:To further implement and fine-tune all systems paving the way for greater growth. To create a legacy that, when handed down some day, will continue to offer employees a sound platform from which to grow.
Biggest accomplishment:

1984: Coming to the realization that I had the ability to manifest my dreams.

2004:Being invited to participate in the prestigious Alternative Hair Show three years in a row and providing young people the opportunity to create for themselves a successful life.
Most important lesson learned in the past 20 years

Take nothing and no one for granted. Embrace change—it’s our life blood.

 

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