In the Spotlight – Colleen Russell
Colleen Russell, of Shear Love, is one of Salon Suites Vestavia Hills independent Salon Owners. She also was the first to be interviewed for the new Salon Suites, In the Spotlight blog! This being the first interview jitters are to be expected but not from Colleen. Ever the consummate professional, Colleen handled the interview process how she handles her clients: personably, friendly, and expertly.
After being a regional manager of 4 salons, Colleen was looking for a change. Knowing that she wanted to be here own boss and not have to have the stress of managing several employees she looked into commercial office suite rentals. That presented a whole new set of challenges. Most commercial rentals do not allow the plumbing and various requirements of the salon owner. That is when she found Salon Suites. Salon Suites deals with all the set up and maintenance, has premiere locations in and around the Birmingham area, and allows the freedom to be your own boss.
“When you work for someone else you are limited to what they allow and what they want. this gave me a whole new freedom, almost like I’m a whole new hairdresser learning new stuff.”
When asking how her clients felt she said, “My clients love it! The one on one attention and the privacy means, I am much more attentive to their needs. I don’t have all the distractions going on around me.” This means she can spend time doing what she enjoys, getting to know the client so she can give them what best suits their needs. This means learning what will and won’t work for them and their lifestyle.
Colleen eats, sleeps, and dreams beauty. She has been in the beauty business for 17 years and has a cosmetology and business degree. Staying on top of the latest and greatest in the beauty industry is something she always keeps a priority. With all her training something she has great tips to pass on to her clients but she was also kind enough to share a little wisdom with us…don’t be afraid to change. Skin and hair change as we age. Things come out that are better than the previous products we have been using so spice it up.
“My hobby is hair! I really, truly enjoy it. I’ve traveled a lot since I’ve been with Salon Suites because I have a flexible schedule. I am able to go to more education classes.”
Part of her continued education has also been learning what is good for us and our bodies long term. This means really diving in and learning what is a healthy trend versus what is good for us long term. If you have health concerns, react to certain ingredients, or are conscience about what you put on your body don’t be afraid to talk to Colleen. She has products that can make you look and feel beautiful.
A parting remark that left us with a reminder of why we love Colleen and all of our Salon Suites independent salon owners…
“I think everyone should make a difference, but I didn’t realize not only that I touch lives but how much they would touch mine.”
Colleen’s recent trainings include: natural nail color with Zoya, CHI, and John Amico color. She also makes a point to always stay up to date with hair color trainings so that she is knowledgeable of the latest trends. Her products include John Amico, Redken, American Crew, and Zoya.
Like what you see? Book now with Colleen.
