Beauty Launchpad is spotlighting the winners of its Top 20 Salons contest for 2024.
Here, Lisa Vann introduces us to Vann Studio in Seattle, WA, established in 1983 with Vann joining the team in 1987 and becoming the sole owner in 2008.
WEBSITE: https://vann.studio/
INSTAGRAM: @vann.studio
Q&A:
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is the backstory of your salon? What motivated you to start your business?
Lisa Vann (LV): Our salon’s journey began with a passion for sustainability and a commitment to minimizing our environmental impact through eco-friendly product lines and companies. We envisioned a space that not only prioritizes education, fashion and editorial work for our talented stylists but also actively supports local artists and fosters a strong sense of community. Overtime, we evolved with the changing industry and embraced a modern approach, while maintaining our core values. Under my sole ownership, we’ve proudly established a dynamic woman-run culture, championing empowerment within our salon and the broader beauty industry.
BLP: What was the most challenging thing that happened while opening your salon?
LV: The most challenging aspect during our salon's opening was navigating the transition from initial partnerships to taking sole ownership myself. Establishing her own path and making changes that set her apart from the initial partnership required thoughtful navigation and strategic decision-making.
BLP: What is the overall aesthetic of your salon? What inspired you when designing the space?
LV: Situated in a historic 100-year-old building in Seattle, our salon boasts a natural, charming and rustic ambiance. Inspired by the building's originality, we designed the space with an industrial artist studio aesthetic. The layout is versatile, allowing us to adapt and grow, with stations intentionally unattached to the floor. This fosters a dynamic environment for our stylists and seamlessly accommodates the diverse needs of our team.
BLP: What services do you provide your clients? Are any of these services signature and/or exclusive to your salon?
LV: At our salon, we offer a diverse range of services tailored to our eclectic clientele. From unique hair cutting, coloring and retexturizing techniques to specialized spa skin care, our team's mastery sets us apart. Each service is crafted to go beyond the standard, ensuring a personalized experience for every guest who walks through our doors.
BLP: What products are used/retailed in your salon? Do you have a personal favorite?
LV: Eufora, Insight Elasti-Curl, Insight Intech professional texture products and Beauty for Real. Lately, my go-to for all perm needs has been Insight Intech Perms – they've become a must have!
BLP: What makes your salon unique and stand out? 
Lisa Vann is the owner of Vann Studio in Seattle, WA.Courtesy of Lisa Vann
LV: What sets us apart is our unique apprentice program, offering aspiring industry professionals a debt-free path to top-quality training within our salon. We prioritize consistent income for our team through a gratuity and gender-free model, with pricing designed to sustain itself. Our commitment extends to providing health and dental insurance for our staff. Beyond our services, we take pride in fostering a safe and inclusive space, both for our team and the community at large.
BLP: What takeaway do you hope clients have after a visit at your salon?
LV: At our salon, we aim to be 'day makers,' brightening our guests both inside and out. Beyond refreshing their look, our goal is to provide a safe space that offers self-care for the soul, leaving them feeling refreshed and rejuvenated on every level.
BLP: What piece of advice would you give to a new salon owner?
LV: My advice to a new salon owner is to embrace collaboration within your team, drawing guidance from newer and fresher generations. Change, though daunting, is essential for both growth and sustainability in our dynamic industry.
BLP: What’s next for your salon? Do you have any goals for the year?
LV: For the upcoming year, our focus is on reshaping industry standards and nurturing a new generation of strong creatives through our apprentice program. We aspire to inspire change not only within our salon but across the industry, encouraging fellow salons to be the positive force we envision for the future of our profession.
