March 20, 2017

Meet Jillian Plourde of Glo Salon in Wakefield

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jillian Plourde.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Jillian. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I come from a very self-motivated family. My father was a successful businessman, he owned and operated a used car dealership and co-owned a tanning salon. I was fortunate enough to watch and learn from him at an early age. I always knew I wanted to follow in his footsteps and become an entrepreneur.

In 2006, I graduated from Fisher College with a bachelor’s degree in business management. Two years later, I signed my first commercial lease. I was beyond excited to begin my journey. I spent the next month depleting my savings and establishing Glo Salon. At the young age of 24, I was an entrepreneur! 8 years later I can honestly say it was the best decision I’ve ever made!

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?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road but then again, we live in New England and are any of the roads even smooth? I opened my doors in 2008 during a global financial crisis. I took a huge risk. I had no savings and no backup plan. I jumped in headfirst. I worked 7 days per week from open to close. It was a complete whirlwind. To add insult to injury, 5 months after I opened my mom lost her battle with cancer. When you’re self employed you don’t get a grievance period. You don’t get personal days and you can’t just call in sick. You have to be “on” regardless of what’s going on in your personal life. Throughout my tenure at Glo, I’ve learned that you can’t plan for the unknown. Over the last 8 years there have been many ups and downs but the struggle has always been worth it.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Glo Salon story. Tell us more about the business.
Glo is a full service salon offering the finest in:
• Custom Spray Tanning
• LED Teeth Whitening
• UV tanning

What sets us apart?
Glo is owner operated. I’m there every day from open to close. I’m committed to meeting and exceeding the unique needs of every individual that walks through my door. I take great pride in servicing my clients.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I believe that luck is less about what happens to you, and more about what you make of each opportunity.

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