Today we’d like to introduce you to Donna Gentile.
Donna, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always been surrounded by hairdressers-as a little girl, my older brother’s girlfriend was a hairdresser (she cut my waist-length hair into a Shag!), and I would always go with my mom on Saturday mornings to the salon on the corner. While my mom had her weekly coif, I’d enjoy the buzz that was in the salon. In college, my friend’s sister was a hairdresser/salon owner. I thought she was so glamorous and cool that I decided to go to cosmetology school. I’m a proud graduate of Pivot Point-class of 1985! Straight out of school, I worked for one owner for nearly 18 years. After that business was sold, I knew it was time to open a space where I could cultivaed my own culture. Salon coccole` was born in 2003 with 5 employees-2 of us owners. Over the last 15 years, our staff has grown to over 30 team members with 3 of us originals. We’re the OGs of the SC!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Having a sustainable businees is never easy. We’ve gone through being an unknown, to surviving a nationwide financial crisis, to an owner exit. The most difficult, but most rewarding has to have been buying out a former partner in 2010. As sole proprietor, I can lead my team in a direction without conflict. I’m proud to say that after I became sole owner, 99% of the team stayed on. I’m always striving to grow both personally and professionally. A couple of proud moments were becoming an A Member of Intercoiffure America/Canada, and serving on the BOD for Cosmetologist Chicago for a few years.
Salon Coccole` – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Our salon was created to provide our guests with the highest level of talent and knowledge. Team members are always doing continuing education and special certifications. Six stylists are certified in Calligraphy Cut-a German engineered cutting tool that cuts hair at a precise angle. We’re one of only a few salons certified in Chicagoland. My salon is also certified in the Arrojo American Wave (it’s not your grandma’s perm). I am proud of my team for their dedication to their crafts, but also for being kind to others. They’re always looking to contribute to great causes ranging from Autism awareness to Breast Cancer research to adopting a needy family at Christmas. They have huge hearts!
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Original Random question answer: I have had many proud moments, but I hope I haven’t had my proudest moment yet – I plan to stay in the industry a long time! I’ve had my work published in magazines in the US and Europe, I’ve done hair for The Oprah Winfrey Show and New York Fashion Week, but I can honestly say that so far, I’m most proud of having trained so many successful stylists throughout my career. It’s a feeling of satisfaction to watch others do so well. I’m a coach at heart.
Pricing:
- Cuts begin at $40
- Get your tan on Tuesday for $20
Contact Info:
- Address: 591 N. Rand Rd
- Website: www.saloncoccole.com
- Phone: 847-540-7006
- Email: info@saloncoccole.com
- Instagram: @saloncoccole
- Facebook: Salon Coccole
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
