Today we’d like to introduce you to Charlie Bonanno.
Charlie, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was working for another salon and I knew it was time for me to breakout on my own. It has been an amazing journey. I opened my first location in 2013 in Lakeview, within our first year of being open, we won best salon by readers choice in Chicago Magazine in 2014. The next year we won best salon by the East Lakeview Chamber of Commerce. All of us were so overwhelmed by the support our clients, families and friends shown us. We also was featured in a national TV show called “America’s Best”.
We were growing so much and becoming extremely busy that I had not choice but to open our second location in Roscoe Village in 2016. I am truly blessed to be surrounded by such talented stylist and look forward to what our future will bring.
We are truly a family and love our job and making people look amazing!!
Has it been a smooth road?
Overall, it has been a wonderful experience opening my own business and one never does it alone, I have had wonderful support from my team and without them there would be no salon. Of course, as with any new business, there are bumps in the road and a lot more work then one would think, however, as the saying goes, “If you love what you do, then you will never work a day in your life!” I could not agree more!!!
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the XO Studio story. Tell us more about the business.
Our business only focuses on hair, cut, color, style. I did not want to open a spa or include any other beauty service. I feel it is important to concentrate on what we do best.
We have amazing reviews on YELP and other venues and the one thing that is most common in our reviews is how comfortable and welcoming our salons are.
Our team makes sure we communicate with our clients and to be sure to include them in the process. It is so important the each client feels confident with their stylist. We’ve set procedures in place and stick to them. Our clients are always made to feel that they are and will be the most important person the day they come in.
We are dedicated to the art of our business.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I am always excited for the future, but always keeping my eye on where we are today. I don’t believe in trends, a trendy style does not always fit everyone. Your individual style is based on your life and what is best for you…this is your own trend and we make sure you get what is best for you.
Contact Info:
- Lakeview location: 3428 North Broadway, 60657
- Roscoe Village location: 2142 W. Roscoe St.60614
- Website: www.xostudiochicago.com
- Phone: Lakeview: 773-935-9077. Roscoe Village 773-661-6977
- Email: xostudio2@gmail.com
- Instagram: xostudiochicago
Image Credit:
Readers Choice for Best salon in Chicago Magazine for 2014
Best Salon by Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce
