Editor’s note: This story is part of Women in Business 2012, a special advertising section produced by Wednesday Journal and Forest Park Review. Click here to view the entire Women in Business Section.
As much as 70% of a person’s first impression is said to be based solely on looks. At James Anthony Salon, 7607 W. Lake Street in River Forest, maximizing that first impression is their highest priority. “When we help our guests look their best,” says Tina Salerno, co-owner of the salon, “they feel more self-confident, more positive about themselves. It makes their inner beauty shine.”
Founded in 1991, James Anthony Salon became a Paul Mitchell Focus Salon and for the last fourteen years has been the number one Paul Mitchell Salon in Illinois and is currently ranked number eight in the country. Following up on the salon’s success, Tina and her partner and husband, Jim Salerno, together with Paul Mitchell CEO, John Paul DeJoria, Winn Claybaugh, and Terri and Steve Cowan founded Paul Mitchell The School Chicago and Paul Mitchell The School Escanaba. To manage their growing business interests, Tina and Jim decided to split the duties. Jim watches the schools, while Tina manages, nurtures and grows the Salon Team.
A whirlwind of energy, Tina Salerno has a passion for the beauty industry that goes back to her childhood, when at the age of eight, she decided to become a hairstylist. “I love being in the salon,” she says, “I love how in just thirty to sixty minutes, I can make a huge difference in a person’s life.” When hiring new stylists for their Team, Tina and Jim look not only for skill, but also passion, personality and character. “They have to have the nice gene,” Tina insists, “The rest we can teach.” And teaching they do. At James Anthony, education is non-negotiable, when new talent is signed on, they receive extensive training both in the salon from senior team members and from outside educators in the industry. “Tina is not only a master stylist,” says Jim, “She’s also an incredible teacher and a real mentor for the young stylists in the salon. She is really a model of success in the beauty industry.”
Over the last few years as the economy has struggled, Tina and Jim have had to make adjustments to their business. While still maintaining their high standards of customer service, they now offer on Sundays, James Anthony Beauty on a Budget (JABOB). On a first come first serve basis, guests can enjoy the full James Anthony Experience at half price from the salon’s well-trained, but newest stylists. “This is an opportunity,” Tina says, “to get an amazing cut and color from a rising star at a great price. Our guests really enjoy and appreciate it.”
As they cheer each other on and celebrate their successes, the team at James Anthony Salon is a vibrant and enthusiastic group. Meet them for yourself by scheduling your own James Anthony experience at 708-366-3100.