If I’ve learned anything as a salon owner, it’s that success isn’t built in isolation; it’s built in connection. 

This past year, I’ve been intentional about two things: connecting with other like-minded business owners in the beauty industry and staying deeply involved in my own local community here in Findlay, Ohio.  Both have shaped me, my team, and my business in ways I couldn’t have imagined. 

At Revive Salon & Day Spa in Findlay, Ohio, we’ve always believed in giving back. Hosting the Festival of Trees Gala for Cancer Patient Services is one of my proudest accomplishments, not just because of the funds we raise, but because of what it represents. It’s our community coming together, small businesses linking arms, and people uniting for a purpose greater than themselves. 

That kind of connection changes you as a leader. It teaches you to see your business not just as a service provider, but as part of something greater, a network of people and businesses all working to lift each other up. 

Data-Driven: A Shift in Mindset 

When I attended the Data-Driven Salon Summit and the SALON TODAY 200 Award Dinner in Scottsdale last April, I didn’t fully realize how much it would change my perspective. Sitting in those classes, hearing from leaders across the industry, I realized something important: this is a time for change. 

It’s a time for owners to take the numbers seriously, to dig deep into systems, and to focus on creating businesses that are not only profitable but also fulfilling for the team and for the owner. 

From that point forward, I committed to approaching my role in a different way.

From that point forward, I committed to approaching my role in a different way. I’ve leaned into every opportunity for education and growth, from High Performance Salon Academy coaching to business mindset with Salon 124 Owner Brian Perdue, who had a huge influence on me last May. 

Because of the connections I made at Data-Driven and as part of the SALON TODAY 200, I’ve built lasting relationships with many amazing salon owners. We’ve continued to keep in touch, share ideas and support one another, which have been invaluable. 

Turning Insights into Action 

One of the most eye-opening moments this year was realizing just how much waste we had in color and how that was quietly eating into our profits. We’ve always used Davines, an incredibly high-end brand, but I hadn’t truly quantified the loss until I implemented new systems for labor and product pricing. I was introduced to the owner of Vish Data-Driven, and we implemented the color management system shortly after we returned. 

Now, our clients see transparency in their services. They understand the value of what they’re receiving, and it’s built even more trust in our brand. 

At Data-Driven, we also learned about Phorest Salon Software, and it has made a positive impact on our operations and guest experience. We’ve simplified our booking process by reducing our menu to three clear service categories. This has eliminated confusion for clients and made online booking straightforward and stress-free. Sometimes, growth comes from simplifying, not adding more. 

The success we’ve realized allowed me to do things I never thought possible, like sending my team to New York for education, and completely revamping our salon in ways that have elevated the experience for both my staff and our guests. 

The Bigger Picture 

This journey, fueled by involvement, industry connections, and personal growth, has taught me that courage and connection go hand in hand.

When you step out of your comfort zone, when you invest in learning and in relationships, you unlock opportunities you didn’t even know existed. And when you commit to leading with clarity and heart, your business, your team, and your guests all feel the impact. 

Data-Driven Salon Summit and being part of the SALON TODAY 200 have been incredible assets to me, and I’m so grateful to be part of this community. It’s more than just an award; it’s a network of innovators and leaders who believe in lifting the entire industry. 

My goal is to keep growing, keep learning, and keep showing up for my team, my guests, and my community.

Save the Dates: Data-Driven Salon Tour will be held in Nashville on November 2, combining a day of education with a progressive behind-the-scenes tour of three different salons--Jón Alan Salon, Studio Gaven Hair Colour, A Moment's Peace Salon and Spa. The next Data-Driven Salon Summit and the SALON TODAY 200 Award Dinner will be held in Austin, May 16-18. Learn more about both events at datadrivensalon.com.