Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenny Candela.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
After working in different salons in Andover for 9 years, I decided to take the risk and open my own studio. I yearned for a creative space where I didn’t have limitations. I’ve always thrived in a smaller, more intimate environment and that’s what I’ve created at my studio. Being extremely artistic from a very young age, it only made sense that I would transition my creative talents into my adulthood.
Opening a salon was never really something I had thought seriously about. I was in a less than ideal working environment and needed to make a big change. My boyfriend suggested “just open your own, you can do it!” and I never even questioned the idea, we just went out and start looking for spaces. Taking the risk was the best thing I have done. I started Candela Hair Studio in the spring of 2015. We have now grown to a wonderful staff of 4. I love the space we have, it’s small boutique style you could say. So far, we have been here three years and what an awesome three years it has been! I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Has it been a smooth road?
Getting started in the hair industry can be tough. I think its overlooked sometimes since its a trade school and not a college. Hair school is the easy part. It’s making it after that, that’s where the work comes in. I worked for about 3 years as an assistant and wanted to quit every day. I washed and folded towel after towel and endlessly swept hair. I finally found a salon I was able to learn and grow at, which was a smaller place and much more my speed.
My best advice to a younger version of myself would be to find a mentor – this is extremely important. Someone that will take you under their wing and show you the ropes. You’ll learn things from them that you’ll never learn in school. Second would be to work hard. Hard work will always pay off in the end. Go the extra mile, pamper the clients even if you are just the shampoo girl. They’ll get to know you and who knows – maybe they’ll be your client one day! Third would be, to be honest! I am always up front and 100% honest with my clients about everything. If something goes wrong – I tell them! They’ll appreciate your honesty and respect you even more for it. Lastly, would be to dream big and don’t let anyone hold you back from pursuing your dream. If you want to open a salon someday, write down your goals, make a plan, and put it in motion.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Candela Hair Studio – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Before I opened my own space, I was just doing a lot of basic color stuff. I knew I wanted to branch out and specialize in one or two things, a niche. I started studying all things balayage.
I specialize in balayage and blondes. I love creating that lived in, beachy blonde hair. It’s effortless, and it’s a low maintenance! Candela hair studio is definitely all about balayage hair!
As a brand, I am most proud of being reliable and respectful. Being consistent and adaptable. Consistency is my #1, it breeds a successful business, and it’s owed to the clients! They come to me because I deliver a quality product and they can expect that every time they come back. I pride myself on my art, and my customer service.
What sets us apart from others is our dedication to our clients. The smaller studio atmosphere allows us to provide a more intimate experience. We spend time with them while doing their hair. It’s important to build relationships rather than ‘just doing hair’. I think it’s great because we all work as a team and get to know everyone. It’s always a good time!
Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
I don’t feel strongly one way or the other regarding this question. I feel over the years, there have been major changes in leadership roles for women, which has paved the way for my generation. Now, more than ever, you see more and more young entrepreneurs that are female.
Contact Info:
- Address: 93 Main St
Andover, MA 01810 - Website: www.candelahairstudio.com
- Phone: 978-409-1018
- Email: CANDELAHAIRSTUDIO@YAHOO.COM
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/candelahairstudio
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/candelahairstudio
Image Credit:
Jenny Candela
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