Cultivating a reputation for being the “It” salon that attracts top talent and customers is a priority for most salon owners, but it’s easier said than done.  Jen and Phil Stern, owners of Salon Riza and Day Spa (North Andover, MA), focused on three areas to create relevance in their community…so much so that salons from Boston and beyond come to learn their secrets to success.

“Our goal was to craft a modern, clean, unique salon that everyone looks up to and wants to be a part of, so we focused on design, technology and education to attract top talent.  Good stylists want to work at relevant high-end salons….and good customers flock to where the good talent is,” explains Jen Stern.

“Everything is designed with the stylist in mind and we’re constantly upgrading and changing to stay ahead of the trends and keep relevant,” adds Phil Stern.

1. Design - modern, unique and clean

• One of the most talked about features is the Freestylist Support System that suspends blow dryers from the ceiling.  It’s a clean design element with high visual impact. Customers like it because it’s unique, something cool that other salons don’t have.  Plus, it eliminates messy cords and clears counter space adding to a sleek minimalistic aesthetic.

2. Technology - advanced systems to improve functionality

• A built-in vacuum system located in key spots of the salon allows for easy cleanup without unsightly brooms and dustpans.

• The Freestylist Support System renders blow dryers weightless, so stylists can control with the touch of a finger, eliminating the need to awkwardly bend arms and shoulders which contributes to repetitive stress injuries.  It also allows customers to have their fringe area dried without a cord bouncing in their face.  Not to mention, it makes sectioning hair so much easier because the dryer can be released to hover above, instead of having to bend over and place it on the styling station.  The dryer also turns on and off automatically when pulled up or down eradicating stress on fingers and wrists. See it in action (videographer/Ellen Farmer).

• The shampoo area is currently tucked away for seclusion and will be upgraded with new privacy chairs from Italy that recline and have massage capabilities.  Each chair will have 5-foot partitions on either side for even more discretion.

3. Education - to master new and existing services and exceed expectations

• Jen Stern came from Albania with nothing, not even speaking the language, so she relied on beauty school and advanced education to empower her to become a business owner. 

• She’s studied under the best in Milan, London, New York, Las Vegas, and is a master stylist proficient in cutting, as well as an American Board Certified Colorist, Goldwell Master Colorist, Redken Certified Colorist, Keratin Treatment Specialist, SoCap Extension Certified, Great Lengths Extension Certified, and Hair Dreams and Length Extension Certified.  She strongly believes continuing education and practical training is the key to developing a strong team.  It’s a solid foundation for success and relevance, and a core value of her apprentice program.

Salon Riza and Day Spa on Facebook @salonrizaanddayspa and Instagram @salon_riza