My Salon Life: A Journey

When I entered cosmetology school (1987), I set out to be a hair stylist. And then we came to the nail curriculum.... I had fallen completely in love and knew I'd found my calling.

My first full-time employment was at a multi-tech salon in Maplewood, MN. At the time, those were unheard of. A room full of professional manicurists was a fresh business model. There, I worked along side very talented nail artists and gained enormous experience. I'm pleased to report that a few are still at it today. 30+ years is a huge accomplishment.

By 1993, I was starting a family and earning my Manager's license. Next came an historic home converted salon on Grand Avenue in St. Paul, where I rented my very first station. After years of commission, I was on my way in establishing a loyal clientele. 

I won't bore you with 20+ years of salon ebb and flow, but I packed and unpacked a bit and learned a lot. I rented storefronts, built walls, handled absentee landlords and for the most part, kept my sanity.  But by far, my most enjoyable years came from what could have been my lowest point. As you many remember, the economy took a big hit back in the mid 2000 and gas prices were up and nail appointments were down.  After 10 years of sole proprietorship, I closed my storefront and joined forces with a small salon in East St. Paul.  I found the best salon family ever created.  The Look Hair Salon became my second home and I lived there for over 7 years. It broke my heart to go, but deep down I was yearning to create MY SALON LIFE and it was time to leave the nest. 

Nowadays, I'm home in my little Woodbury suite -Netchill'n and listening to The Bee Gees. Owning my private studio is such a comfortable haven for myself and my clients, many of which I've had the pleasure to have served for three decades. It's OUR place, really.

Credentials: 

Minnesota Board Certified continually since 1988

Grand Master in CND Retention Acrylics, Brisa Hard Gels and Shellac gel polish

Akzentz Luxio soft gel and Trinity hard gel certified.

Swarovski® Crystal Certified Brand Ambassador