Salon owner Vickie Vidov and salon director Maggie Weeks may hale from opposite coasts, but they have one thing in common-a love of working with people.

Vidov, who owns Gemini Salon and Spa in New York City, says, "I love the salon and everything that goes with it. I feel very lucky to be in a profession that is so much fun and so rewarding."

Weeks, salon director and creative force at Ambiance Day Spa and Salon in Claremont, California, enjoys the mentor aspect of the industry.

"I believe in people," she says. "Trust them, teach them, bring them under your wing and watch them fly."

Here are a few of Weeks' and Vidov's favorite things. 

 

EAST

East/West: Vickie Vidov & Maggie WeeksVickie Vidov

Guilty pleasure: Chocolate and a day at the Russian and Turkish bath houses.

Favorite product and tool: I love Matrix Opti-smooth for hair straightening and my GHD flatiron. 

Favorite music: I grew up listening to all types of music from all over the world. I don't really have a favorite, just anything that gets me up and dancing.

Favorite magazine: InStyle or Marie Claire.

Favorite place to shop: Bloomingdales-you can always find something.

After work I like to: Go home and unwind with my children. There's nothing like coming home to my family.

My mentor: My mother, the most amazing woman I know.

My inspiration: My clients-I listen to their needs.

My favorite beverage: XXX-flavored Vitamin Water

My biggest tip: I was straightening a client's hair and for three straight hours I listened to her problems. That day we solved a lot more than her hair issues, and I received a $250 tip!

My dream vacation: A spa somewhere exotic with time to work out and lots of pampering.

What I do for the environment: I recycle and keep things unplugged when not in use. We also use energy-saving light bulbs.

 

WEST

East/West: Vickie Vidov & Maggie WeeksMaggie Weeks

Guilty pleasure: Receiving multiple spa services in one visit.

Favorite product and tool: Vavoom hair spray and a flat paddle brush.

Favorite music/band: Gwen Stefani and No Doubt.

Favorite magazine: Simple Life.

Favorite place to shop: Victoria Gardens.

After work I like to: Relax with my family and catch up on their day.

My mentors: Mike Alpert, Laura Vandran and my mother.

My inspiration: Making a difference with my family, my friends, my staff and myself.

My favorite beverage: Malibu on the rocks.

My biggest tip: Say anything you need to say but always say it in a kind, nice way. As far as dollars are concerned, I received $120 for a color correction.

My dream vacation: Being surrounded by the people I love relaxing in a beautiful setting.

What I do for the environment: Recycle, recycle, recycle and make green buying decisions at home and work.

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