Today we’d like to introduce you to Shannon Johnston.
Shannon, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Shortly after high school, I had to accept the fact that my dream job of being a dancer and owning a dance studio was not in the cards for me anymore. I was stranded, not knowing what I should do with my future, but knowing I needed to choose a path where I could exercise my creative mind. Fast forward a few years of trial and error, (and with lots of help from my beautiful grandparents), I decided to go to esthetician school to become a waxing specialist.
I was told by the administrative staff to attend the full cosmetology program (hair, nails, AND skincare) so that I would have options if a career in waxing didn’t work out. I was hesitant. I did not want to do hair – which was 80 percent of the cosmetology program. I decided to take the advice, even though I was convinced I would have to force myself through the hair portion of my education… I fell in love with doing hair, and have been happily helping people look and feel their best ever since!
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?
Every rewarding experience has its share of bumps in the road – I believe that’s what makes it rewarding. I’m sure I am not the only artist who has been discouraged by someone close to them, who has been told that this career path isn’t an “actual job”, or that it “won’t make decent money”. This was hard to hear – especially coming from someone I trust.
Early on, it made me reconsider, put my dream on hold for a couple of years, and try to find something that would “make a better living”. To anyone who may be struggling with this, you get what you put into it – as with any career. Give it your all, and you will definitely be rewarded in more ways than one! There were many struggles big and small on my journey, but this was by far the hardest. To answer your question, it wasn’t all sunshine, but hey! No rain, no flowers, right??
Tell us more about your business.
I work out of a perfect little salon tucked away in a heavily populated shopping center. I primarily do eyelash extensions and all things hair, but still, do some facial waxing as well! I became certified in eyelash extensions just before starting my cosmetology program as a way to have a job in the industry while I was going to school. Eyelash extensions are what I am most experienced in, and will always be one of my favorite services that I provide. As for hair, I am a blonding specialist, known for my color corrections, full heads of foils, platinum blondes, babylights, and dimensional balayages – basically all things blonde. Although I specialize in these particular services, I love doing them all!!
I take pride in my perseverance and determination to meet the needs of each and every client. I’m always willing to go the extra mile, never hesitating to address every concern. I don’t consider the job as done until my guests love the result. This, along with my perfectionism and attention to detail, are what sets me apart from others. My clients and colleagues have told me they appreciate these qualities and are what keep them coming back!
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I feel extremely fortunate to have brought my business to Max Hair Salon at a time that seemed nothing less than perfect. I was lucky enough to rent a space to develop my independent business, while still being a part of a team-like, positive, encouraging environment in which to work. Because my place of business is in a heavily populated area, right from the get-go I was getting walk-ins left and right who would eventually become my regular clientele. I consider that very lucky as well.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1251 East Vista Way
Vista, CA 92084 - Website: http://maxhairsalonvista.com/
- Phone: (760) 940-0067
- Email: shannonmarjoriebeauty@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonmarjoriebeauty/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/max-hair-salon-vista-2
Image Credit:
Alex Alberti Photography (Personal Photo)
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