May 1, 2017

Meet Rick Fogarty of Plan B Cut and Color Boutique in Harvard Square

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rick Fogarty.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Having owned 4 previous salons in the suburbs, I decided that I was ready to open a smaller, more manageable operation in the city in 2008. After analyzing various neighborhoods and demographics, I decided that Harvard Square was the prime location I was searching for. A more youthful, energetic potential was there for the taking. I’ve been extremely fortunate in the staff I’ve assembled. Their extremely focused and committed group of artists, dedicated to the satisfaction of each and every client.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I’ve been extremely fortunate in this venture. Our location and visibility can’t be beat. There’s a constant flow of passers-by and our walk in business is brisk. That’s a plus considering how transient the Square is year to year. Combining that with the quality of work leaving the salon it’s the perfect formula for success.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Plan B Cut and Color Boutique story. Tell us more about the business.
I can easily say that our niche is the dimensional highlighting process known as Balayage. This natural looking form of highlight is something I’ve specialized in for the past 27 years. It grows out gracefully, without the heavy line of demarcation associated with the foil technique

We offer an extremely affordable Balayage special every Friday night. The term “Friday Night Lights” has become synonymous with our salon. Knowing quite well what a student budget (having two college graduates of my own) entails, we offer a partial Balayage for $59. There are some additional fees should a glaze be required, or if you’d like to add a little more dimension with low lights. We do not cut or blow dry the hair on Friday nights, we supply blowers and brushes for self-styling. With this policy we’re able to generate 2 FNL’s per hour. This makes it a win win for the clients and the company.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I’ve been extremely lucky in both my personal and professional life. This May 3rd will mark my 36th anniversary to Judy, the love of my life. We have also been blessed with two amazing daughters. All three ladies in my life are so creative, so focused in what they do, I can’t express how proud I am of Judy, Heather and Jennifer. And I can’t forget to mention my Cavapoo “Dexter”. Finally got a boy!

As far as my professional life, it’s amazing what you learn when you open your first salon at the ripe old age of 24. I must admit I’ve learned so much through my mistakes. You learn what works and what doesn’t. It’s a continual learning process. You’ll never know it all…….

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