Beauty Launchpad is spotlighting the winners of its Top 20 Salons contest for 2024.
Here, Jessica Scott Santo introduces us to Jessica Scott Hair Salon in Sciota, Pennsylvania, founded in May 2019.
WEBSITE: https://jessicascotthair.com/
INSTAGRAM: @jessicascotthair_salon
Q&A:
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is the backstory of your salon? What motivated you to start your business?
Jessica Scott Santo (JS): After being at a previous salon for 10 years, I felt like I needed more. I felt like I wasn’t able to let my passion shine, and I wanted an environment that shared the same values as I did as far as social media, education and growing as a stylist. That was my motivation and drive to open my own salon. I started becoming very heavily involved with educating, growing my social media and working with brands. I really needed my own space to let my creativeness flow! I actually did not want to hire any other stylists, but that soon changed! I love working with others that have the same passion as I do!
BLP: What was the most challenging thing that happened while opening your salon?
JS: Honestly, owning a salon was the best thing that ever happened to me! I think it was just at the beginning of where to start and who to contact to get the place up and running! I also love being at the salon, so the work/life balance of having a family can be challenging at times.
BLP: What is the overall aesthetic of your salon? What inspired you when designing the space?
JS: I actually changed the design a few times in the last 4 years, but now it’s minimalist, and I love the feel of the modern, bright and sleek look. Currently, it’s mostly black and white. Two years ago, I actually expanded my salon to host education classes and to film educational content. 
Jessica Scott Santo is the owner of Jessica Scott Hair Salon in Sciota, PA.Courtesy of Jessica Scott Santo
BLP: What services do you provide your clients? Are any of these services signature and/or exclusive to your salon?
JS: We currently offer color, blonding, balayage, haircuts, low maintenance dimensional color, Brazilian blowouts and hair extensions.
BLP: What products are used/retailed in your salon? Do you have a personal favorite?
JS: I’m a global color ambassador for Moroccanoil so we use their hair color and stylist products.
BLP: What makes your salon unique and stand out?
JS: I think it’s that we are a smaller salon in a rural area that values our clients, makes them beautiful and meets their expectations. We are also constantly booked with clients who travel far to see us. We also don’t hire just anyone to fill a chair to look busy either.
BLP: What takeaway do you hope clients have after a visit at your salon?
JS: I’m big on customer service, and that is very important to us! Also, we really like to listen and educate our clients to achieve their expectations for their inspiration.
BLP: What piece of advice would you give to a new salon owner?
JS: If you feel like you’re stuck on where you are at, and you know you always wanted to open a salon, just go for it! It’s ok to start small too! This is why everyone needs to be active on social media! It showcases your talent and also helps bring more customers through your doors! Also, open a separate bank account, start saving and make an end goal. Try to open your salon without taking out any loans! I saved for about a year before deciding to take action!
BLP: What’s next for your salon? Do you have any goals for the year?
JS: I’m currently going to start the hiring process again and, of course, more education classes! That is a must in this industry to be on top of the current hair trends.
