March 6, 2017

Meet Scarlett Thornton of Scarlett Rose Hair in Beverly Hills

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Scarlett Thornton.

Scarlett, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I grew up in a small town in the mountains of northern New Mexico. I’ve had a passion for hair for as long as I can remember. I started coloring my own hair when I was 11 years old, enrolled in beauty school when I was 16 and was working behind the chair at 17. I always dreamed of living in New York City and was finally able to turn my dreams into reality in 2005. After arriving in NYC, I started an apprenticeship at Paul Labrecque Salon and Spa and was quickly promoted to Color Specialist. After 8 wonderful years, I was offered a position at Shin Salon in Santa Monica and could not resist the siren call of sunshine and palm trees on the Golden Coast. For the first 2 years I flew back and forth to NYC every 6 weeks to take care of my clients there. Then, I decided I wanted to focus my attention on being an independent stylist. I opened my first studio in Westwood in September of 2015. I recently decide to join the Salon Republic family and moved my studio to their Beverly Hills Wilshire location. I now feel like I have the support of being part of a team, while still being able to maintain the independence of running my own private studio.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The biggest obstacle I have come across has been rebuilding my clientele after moving across the country and then again when I branched out on my own. I struggle a lot with self-promotion. While I am a very friendly person, it is not in my nature to approach people and tell them why I am the best person to do their hair. I prefer to build my business through word of mouth and recommendations but that can be a slow process.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Scarlett Rose Hair – what should we know?
I always strive to create an effortless, low maintenance style and color for all of my clients. I want them to feel like coming to see me is a relaxing, enjoyable experience instead of a chore that needs to be checked off their list Their cut and color should still look beautiful as it grows in, not just when they leave the salon. I also always use the highest quality products I can find to create colors that fade beautifully and maintain the integrity of the hair. For example, I use bond builders in every lightening service as opposed to charging more for it as an upgraded service. Beautiful, healthy hair starts with a good foundation.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My father has always been an amazing example for me. He also opened his own business and moved thousands of miles to the place where his heart felt at home. He showed me at a young age that I could go anywhere and be anything I put my mind to. My wonderful girlfriend Erinn provides me with tremendous love and support. She is my ultimate cheerleader and is always there to pick me up anytime I feel frustrated or discouraged.

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