Today we’d like to introduce you to Shauna Richmond.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Shauna. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Becoming a hairstylist wasn’t my immediate path. In fact – I went to the University of New Hampshire for a business degree and graduating with a career in the hospitality industry. I had been in the hotel business for about 8 years before I knew that I still had not met my passion. On my 30th birthday – I quit my job working as a wedding planner and started cosmetology school here in Massachusetts. I have been working at JT Macken Hair Salon ever since and it was the best decision I have ever made. I have built an incredible clientele that I find even hard to keep up with at times because I am so extremely busy. This career is everything to me and each day is a new challenge and adventure to be as creative as possible. The flexibility of working in our Salon (started my mother – also a hairstylist and mentor) has allowed me to start a family of my own while really maintaining a work-life balance.
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?
Starting a clientele is definitely a struggle for any new stylist. I found myself in a salon that truly wanted to see me succeed. I worked under my mother – washing and blow drying at first then slowly building the trust of some of her clients for a haircut by a new graduate! I would sit all day long at the salon hoping for a walk in. One day, I even sat outside of the salon and asked a local girl walking by the salon if she wanted a free haircut! She actually agreed and she is still one of my regular color clients now! Putting yourself out there with confidence is a game changer!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with JT Macken Hair Salon – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I specialize in colors, creative colors! Balayage technique and BLONDES! I love cutting as well. Total transformations are my favorite!
I also do quite a number of weddings specializing in updos! I will travel onsite to a number of destinations where myself and/or my team will take care of all the bridesmaids and brides.
Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
I would actually say being in this industry is quite empowering! I find myself working with and learning from a high percentage of woman. I don’t see limits here! I think the possibilities are truly endless. One of the biggest things I love about working in this industry not only is the endless creativity but the ability to have a family and career. That in itself is quite empowering.
Contact Info:
- Address: JT Macken Hair Salon
190 Hagman Road
Winthrop, MA - Phone: 603-490-0685
- Instagram: @Hairbyshaunamr
- Facebook: JT Macken Hair Salon
Image Credit:
Shauna Richmond
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