SONNA BRADO

Owner, Stylist and Trainer

Jaazz Salon & Skin Care Center

Spokane, WA

National Art Director, KMS California
Member: Intercoiffure and PBA

Licensed: 1983, Cinderella Beauty School, Bremerton, WA


First job: Villa Coiffures, Seattle, WA
Clients per week: 30
Price point: Cut and style: $100; highlights: $125
jaazzsalons.com


Why did you choose beauty? My parents thought it would be a great career for me, as I wasn't interested in college. I love the industry, the people in it and the amazing creativity that is involved.


Milestones: Building two great salons and the amazing teams that run them; being a finalist for NAHA in 2006; becoming an art director for KMS California and working with the group of phenomenally talented people to shoot the cover of the September 2011 cover of MODERN SALON.

Big break: Came from working with Sam Brocato early in my career


Career advice you’ve received: From my husband: Success happens when preparation meets opportunity, so always be ready. Show up with all you equipment, you never know what you're going to need.


Career advice you’ve given: Same as above, it works for everyone.


Your mentors: Sam Brocato led the way for me and our business, and Vivienne Mackinder opened my eyes to creativity

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You mentor: Our staff in our apprentice program

 

Are there benefits to being a woman in beauty? With shows like Tabatha’s Salon Takeover, we’re starting to see women take the lead in the industry and it's only getting better.


Are there challenges to being a woman in beauty? Over the past 40 years, the industry has been predominantly led by men. Today, you're seeing a strong, talented group of women who are phenomenal in their goals, drive and ability, and they are making a difference.

 

Risk and reward: Entering NAHA is a big risk. You put your ability, creativity and ego on the line. And if you’re not nominated, it's hard. I learned not to give up, to keep doing it. Eventually it will pay off. The journey is part of the learning process.

What does “work/life” balance mean to you? It means being happy in both places. I achieve it by scheduling it.

 
To follow in your footsteps, a woman would have to: Work really hard, make sacrifices, do the little things, always show up, be considerate of others and practice.

Famous woman you would like to style: I've always wanted to do Madonna’s hair.

Next change to my personal style: Possibly going blonde again.

Reading: Storm of Swords, book three of the Game of Thrones series by George RR Martin. And Master your Metabolism by Jillian Michaels.

Playlist: Anything by Pink Martini and Cowboy Junkies

Every day, just for yourself: A cup of tea and quiet time

Working on: A great new idea for my next NAHA shoot

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