Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Ruby.
Hi Jessica , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been doing hair professionally for over 20 years, but my love for beauty, self-expression, and transformation started when I was just a kid. I always knew I wanted to create a space where people could come not just to look good, but to feel good — a space that celebrated individuality, queerness, creativity, and community.
After years of working behind the chair and educating for top brands, I opened my own salon, The Flamingo Lounge, in Los Angeles. It’s more than just a hair salon — it’s a Y2K dreamland, a music venue by night, and a community hub where we offer everything from haircuts and vivid color to tattoos, tooth gems, and art pop-ups.
Every inch of the salon is designed to feel like a Barbie Dreamhouse meets psychedelic Wonderland, with themed walls, neon signs, vintage finds, and flamingo wallpaper. I wanted it to feel like stepping into another world — a safe, magical, expressive space that reflects the wild, vibrant energy of LA.
Being a salon owner in LA has been a wild ride — full of challenges, wins, and constant growth. I’m incredibly proud of the team I’ve built, the clients we attract, and the culture we’ve cultivated. It’s not always easy balancing creativity, leadership, and business — but when I see someone leave my salon glowing inside and out, I know it’s all worth it.
Alright, 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?
Definitely not a smooth road — but I don’t think it’s supposed to be. Owning a salon in LA, especially one that’s as creative and community-focused as The Flamingo Lounge, comes with unique challenges. I’ve dealt with everything from staffing struggles and financial stress to balancing motherhood, neurodivergent kids, and running a business full-time. There were times when I felt like I was barely holding it together.
Creating a space that breaks the mold — that’s queer, inclusive, loud, and proud — isn’t always easy in an industry that still favors traditional beauty standards. But I kept going, even when it felt like the odds were stacked against me. What’s helped me through it all is my vision, my team, and the community that shows up for us — not just for hair, but for the full Flamingo experience.
Every obstacle taught me something and pushed me to grow, not just as a business owner, but as a human. And somehow, all the mess made the magic even more meaningful.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a hairstylist, salon owner, educator, and creative director — but at my core, I’m a space-maker. I specialize in razor cutting, lived-in texture, vivid colors, and creating hair that feels like an extension of your personality, not just a trend. What sets me apart is my ability to see beauty in contrast — I can make punk feel soft, or softness feel punk.
I founded The Flamingo Lounge, a salon by day and music/art venue by night in Los Angeles. It’s a maximalist, Y2K-inspired, Barbie Dreamhouse-meets-Wonderland space where people come to express themselves fully — through hair, tattoos, tooth gems, or fashion. We’re known for being inclusive, queer-affirming, and community-centered.
I’m most proud of building something that isn’t just about services — it’s about creating an experience. My salon is a safe space for artists, weirdos, rockstars, and anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t fit in at a traditional salon. We don’t just do hair. We make people feel seen.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My biggest advice when it comes to finding a mentor is to look for someone who embodies the kind of values and energy you want to grow into — not just someone who’s “successful” on paper. The best mentors I’ve had weren’t always the loudest or the most followed; they were the ones who truly saw me and created space for me to grow.
Some of the most powerful networking I’ve done has been through genuine connection — supporting others, showing up, and building relationships without expectation. I also believe in being open to unconventional mentorship — sometimes your mentors are your peers, your clients, or even your younger team members. I’ve learned just as much from teaching as I have from being taught.
Be bold enough to ask questions, humble enough to listen, and confident enough to walk away from people who don’t align with your vision. The right people will find you when you’re being fully yourself.
Pricing:
- Haircuts 125+
- Vivid and bleaching packages 350-450
- Tooth gems 60+
- Tattoos 100+
- All over color 250+
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.flamingoloungehair.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flamingoloungehair?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/RhtvTl7FvN
