Today we’d like to introduce you to Dalon Somchitvongsa.
Dalon, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
After a tragic lost at the age of 21, I decided this was my second chance at life to do something I love! So I enrolled in cosmetology school. I graduated in 2005 and I was offered a job with one of my instructors. I continue to work at a salon in Mission Gorge for six months as a commission stylist but decided I wanted more. I then pursued looking to work for a more high-end salon, which I worked at for 13 years in the heart of Mission Valley. Almost a year ago, Boe Heredia and I decided to open up our own studio at Sola Salon called Steel Hair Studio in Fashion Valley. I have to say it was the best decision ever!
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 off in the industry as a commission stylist was not easy. I work 5-6 days a week, long hours, hoping to get a client. It took me a little over a year to build clientele. The only way I accomplished that was working the hours no one else wanted to work and at the time my salon owner referred a lot of her clientele to me. It’s definitely an industry of artistry. You don’t only have to make your client look good, you have to make them feel confident, you have to connect with them and make them want them to sit in your chair. The industry is very competitive, there’s a salon down every street. My advice to anyone entering the industry is to continue to educate yourself! You can always learn something new every day, the industry is forever evolving.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Steel Hair Studio story. Tell us more about the business.
At the beginning of my career, I was known to specialize in Aline-bobs, which is still one of my favorite haircuts. Today, I would say I love to do foilayage (balayage with foils) but I love to be able to use my artistry the best I can with the knowledge I have. I love a challenge and is a perfectionist at heart. I pride in not cutting corners and using the best products. I also do Global Kertain Straightening Treatments and I’m a certified Elleebana Lash Lift Artist.
Who do you look up to? How have they inspired you?
There are so many great hairstylists in the industry but to name a few would be my old hair bestie Ae Savatdy, she taught me a good blow dry! We sat side by side for 13 years and is an amazing stylist. Boe Heredia, she taught me to know my worth and value as a stylist. Now, I have the pleasure of working with her on a daily as my partner at our studio. Roxy Akopyan, Lisa Walker, Patricia Nikole as some of my favorites to follow on Instagram, they are a not only amazing hairstylist but offer educational advice!
Contact Info:
- Address: Steel Hair Studio
1450 Frazee Road 101-2
San Diego, CA 92108 - Website: appointments/book/FF302DVJCVCY3
- Phone: 6193028687
- Email: daynomyte@yahoo.com
- Instagram: @HairByDalon @BeautyByDalon
Image Credit:
Dalon Somchitvongsa, Boe Heredia
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