How Michelle Bowden Had a Breakout Year (and How Other Stylists Can, Too)
From working backstage at multiple Paris Fashion Week shows to collaborating on four creative collections and expanding her international stage work, Michelle Bowden has had an incredible year of growth. Here, we break down her approach that drove her momentum, offering a framework for stylists looking to elevate their own careers.
Cultivating a Culture of Excellence
Spa Coordinator Allie Harris coordinates spa days and private events at Revive Salon & Day Spa, while managing inventory and addressing the needs of the spa staff. Owner Ashley Boehler says Harris provides the team with both visionary and directional leadership.
by Stacey Soble
Balancing Professionalism with Warmth
Salon Manger Karla Patterson is the heart behind Cynergy Color Bar--the team told her so with a tribute that will make you grab those tissues.
by Stacey Soble
Dedicated to Growth
In this Meet the Manager profile, we learn about Diane Palumbo, General Manager of Ohana Salon in Scottsdale, AZ, and owner Chandra Chriswisser’s trusted right hand.
Bringing Calm to Chaos
With a natural sense of hustle and a skill for structure and service, Manager Meagan Vellinga tackles daily operations, leadership and culture development, and marketing and brand coordination, so Owner Lia Hakim can strategically grow the business.
by Stacey Soble
The Brand Builder
Having been at Thompson and Co. Salon Parlor for nine of its 10 years in business, Manager Lauren Marck has been instrumental in helping Owners Kayla and Bobby Thompson expand and launch a barbering concept. Her background in communications and marketing helped shape the brand's identitiy.
A Natural, Gentle Leader
Taking advantage of every management course she can get her hands on, Jessica Thomas has become an irreplaceable leader at Venue Salon and Sap and it all started with an email.
by Stacey Soble
40 Years of Beauty: What's Changed and What Hasn't
As Owner David Wagner celebrates the 40th anniversary of Juut Salonspa, he reflects on how the industry has evolved over the decades, and how his Daymaking philosophy has stood the test of time.
The Client and Team Connector
Coming up through guest services at Grove Salon, Shannon Bland helps team members hit their benchmarks, keeps guests happy and coming back again and again, and supports retail sales.
by Stacey Soble
How Liaison Strengthens a Salon Team
Since joining Janet St.Paul Studio for Hair and Beauty in February 2025, Grace Fowler has used her natural gift for connection to become a grounded bridge between stylists, clients, and leadership.
The Mutual Support that Keeps Pinup Studio Growing
A strong bond can be the key to a successful leadership team. Owner Christina Kirkey of Pinup Studios in Raleigh, North Carolina, shares how she and her manager, Alli Macdonald, foster open communication and support each other's strengths to help the business continue to succeed.
Saying Yes to Creating a Culture Shift
Franchisee Tammy Eickhoff wanted to build a culture of kindness, professionalism and fairness within her Fantastic Sams' locations. Her manager Michelle Butler got on board and they did just that--now they constantly are making the list of the Top 100 Fantastic Sams.
From Burnout to Purpose: How Saying Yes and Getting Uncomfortable Changed Everything
Owner and Stylist Mandy Pulse was burned out until an email and a trip to Cambodia changed her life. Now, her Global Stylist Scholarship is empowering individuals in developing countries to not only survive but thrive with a career in cosmetology.
A Septic Disaster, Two Reliable Tools, One Courageous Owner and a Team of Unicorns
When a septic backup destroyed 90% of Soleil Salon and Spa, Owner Luisa G. Garcia combined a goal tracking system from Qnity and a performance app from Phorest to engage her team in the Unicorn Challenge, keeping them focused on goals instead of the chaos around them. Her inspiring story led us to award her with our SALON TODAY 200 Courage in Leadership Award.
by Stacey Soble
The Beauty Industry Bids Adieu to An Entrepreneurial Force
The industry loses a legend with the passing of Eveline Charles. As her family shares their thoughts, we share her history, as well as some of our favorite stories featuring this passionate entrepreneur.
by Stacey Soble
Creatively Managing Change
With more than 50 years in the industry, Owner Tracey Gobla looks back and pinpoints the times that embracing change and pivoting have helped her grow professionally and personally.
Helping Others Cope After Disaster: A Hairdresser's Journey
In her own words, Salon Owner and Stylist Sherry Bennett shares her heartwarming experience of helping create a makeshift salon to serve the displaced victims of the Maui wildfires.