Meet Gillian Bissett

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gillian Bissett.

Gillian, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I came to LA 28 years ago from Belfast, Northern Ireland where I had trained under some of the best stylists in the UK. Before long, the Southern Californian weather was calling me, so I packed up my shears and headed to Los Angeles. I spent eight years working in Westside salons, but I wanted to create something of my own in my new home.

I started my own shop at the Brentwood Country Mart, which I had for 15 years before making the decision to move it to Santa Monica to help serve a broader clientele. Nine years ago, I launched my own hair care line, and last year I launched a high end, affordable skincare line. This past June, during the pandemic, we celebrated our 20th Anniversary.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Put your seatbelt on, but yes there were bumps- that’s life! Six months after opening the salon, I found out my business partner was embezzling money from the salon. He agreed to walk away but I accrued all of the debt. It was challenging, but I came out the other end and grew from the experience.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Gillian Bissett Colour Salon – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
My business is a boutique hair salon that specializes in hair colour & precision haircuts. My team have been trained by academies such as Toni & Guy, Paul Mitchell & Aveda. I’m honestly most proud of our 20th anniversary this past June, weathering two recessions and a pandemic. What sets us apart is the personalized approach we can provide as a boutique salon. The environment is warm, welcoming, unpretentious and relaxed. We strive to create an experience that clients want to return to.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
The current situation makes it difficult to make plans. I’m looking forward to being able to reopen, bring my team back on and continue to service our clients in the way they are accustomed. I’m also planning on opening a salon in Sydney, Australia. Fingers crossed!

Contact Info:

• Address: 3000 Lincoln Blvd
  Santa Monica
  CA 90405
• Website: gillianbissett.com
• Phone: 310-392-0300
• Email: info@gillianbissett.com
• Instagram: gillianbissettsalon
• Facebook: Gillian Bissett Colour Salon

Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.