Today we’d like to introduce you to Gail Coughlin.
Gail, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I began my career in the natural nail industry when I was 17 after my sister suggested I attend nail school during my senior year of High School. I wanted to have a studio in my college dorm room, but I quickly fell in love with the salon atmosphere. I apprenticed and worked in the best salons in Chicago and Western suburbs. I began in a Vidal Sassoon focused salon, and moved to educate for the ultra-modern Rusk Design force and the innovative Chromastics Color Team. I headlined photo shoots for the NBA, NBC, and worked backstage at the world’s largest hair conventions. I had great opportunities to be in the company of the best hair artists and industry professionals to shape who I am as a stylist today! And for that I am thankful.
I appreciate all the people I worked with and for but knew there was something more for me instead of the hustle and bustle, double-booking, and burn out of day-in and day-out at a standard salon. I was able to open my boutique salon with something special in mind.
At Elevate, I offer extended, private appointments with as many special touches for each individual that I am so lucky to accommodate. Every color guest receives a heated neck towel, custom gloss or deep treatment, hand & arm massage, and a lip & under eye treatment. I have more exciting value-added services in mind as we speak!
The most frequent positive response I hear from guests is that because it is a private atmosphere (I never double book or squeeze appointments in) each person is able to truly decompress from all of life’s stressors. I know people enjoy the alone time and luxury shampoo system because after only a few months after opening I could no longer see new guests! Our reward system thanks those who send in friends with points that accumulate for free products or tools. Every service received also adds points to profiles.
Another element that I am proud of is my unique selection of all eco-and health conscious hair, body & skin products & tools. All of the color and styling products we use and retail are Made in America and are organic and free of nasty chemicals and cheap ingredients. These quality items set us apart in our community and make our retail space inviting to those who don’t even get services in our salon.
I now have one lovely booth renter who believes in giving the same guest experiences. We alternate work days and hours so our appointments never overlap. We both recently were awarded Cosmetologist Chicago’s Presidential Scholarship and will be flying to San Diego later this year to attend an intense hair cutting course.
I’m pleased at the progress of Elevate Hair Boutique and look forward to future growth!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I really am pleased with how I set myself up for success. I had always made mental notes on what I thought was important to me throughout my career in other salons. When I was ready to open my space, I had the confidence to remain true to my beliefs on not only quality hair and beauty services, but mostly the guest’s experiences. I knew that anyone can get a haircut anywhere, but not every technician has the opportunity to touch lives and give the time to make people feel special.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
I don’t I have one proud moment in mind but am grateful for all the experiences that have led me to this happy place I am in currently. I love owning my own salon and am proud when people return to me and compliment my salon concept – and of course when they love their hair! I also would like to mention that I host an American Red Cross Blood Drive every year. I needed several donations to save my life years ago and we have had a great response in these events!
Contact Info:
- Address: 321 Harrison Street
Oak Park, IL 60304 - Website: www.elevatehairboutique.com
- Phone: 708 227 3788
- Email: gail@elevatehairboutique.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevatehairboutique/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevatehairboutique/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/elevate-hair-boutique-oak-park
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