
Beauty Launchpad is spotlighting the winners of its Top 20 Salons contest for 2025! Sponsored by Wella Professionals, this contest spotlights innovative and unique salons that go above and beyond to provide stellar experiences for their clients and opportunities for growth for their hair pros.
Here, Sean Michael (@seanmichaelhair) welcomes us to Salon Beau in Andover, MA, established in September 2014.
Q&A with Salon Owner
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is the backstory of your salon? What motivated you to start your business?
Sean Michael (SM): I opened the salon to create more than just a workplace. I envisioned a community—a vibrant, supportive space where everyone feels deeply valued, genuinely appreciated and continuously inspired. I wanted to build an environment that not only motivates, but also challenges each team member to grow, both personally and professionally. My goal was to design a place where people love to work, where they feel empowered to achieve their dreams and where together we create something truly extraordinary.
Salon chair at Salon BeauCourtesy of Salon Beau
SM: Our space blends the chic, modern energy of a New York City salon with the authentic, grounded charm of a quaint New England town. It’s a perfect fusion of urban sophistication and small-town warmth, offering an industry-leading vibe where creativity and professionalism flourish. Here, our clients experience the best of both worlds—a cutting-edge, fashion-forward atmosphere in a welcoming and relaxed community setting.
BLP: What services do you provide your clients? Are any of these services signature and/or exclusive to your salon?
SM: We pride ourselves on offering our signature lived-in services, thoughtfully tailored to deliver the perfect balance of low-maintenance care and high-impact results. These services are designed to enhance client’s natural beauty with effortless style, allowing them to look and feel your best every day without the hassle. It’s all about achieving that flawless, lived-in look that radiates confidence, individuality and timeless elegance. Shampoo bowls at Salon BeauCourtesy of Salon Beau
BLP: What products are used/retailed in your salon? Do you have a personal favorite?
SM: Oribe & Alfaparf — Our passion shines through with every product we use! We adore the luxurious performance of Oribe stylers, delivering impeccable results with style and sophistication. When it comes to color, we’re absolutely obsessed with Alfaparf! From vibrant hues to natural tones, Alfaparf allows us to create stunning, customized colors that transform our clients' looks and keep their hair feeling healthy and radiant.
BLP: What makes your salon unique and stand out?
SM: One of the things that truly sets us apart is our unique commission structure. We believe in empowering our stylists by offering them unparalleled freedom and flexibility, with the opportunity to earn up to 60% commission. At the same time, we provide the structure, resources and unwavering support they need to grow into the best stylists in the Boston area. It’s a model designed to inspire success, encourage creativity and build a thriving community where talent and passion are rewarded.
BLP: What takeaway do you hope clients have after a visit at your salon?
SM: Our ultimate goal is for every client to step out of our salon feeling like the most beautiful and confident version of themselves, both inside and out. We strive to create an experience where they not only look amazing but feel empowered, radiant and truly celebrated. Beauty isn’t just about appearance—it’s about how you feel, and we’re here to ensure our clients leave with both unmatched style and a renewed sense of self.
Sean Michael and the Salon Beau teamCourtesy of Salon Beau
SM: "Hire slow, fire fast" is a principle we live by, and its impact on our work culture, stylist success and staff retention is undeniable. Taking the time to carefully hire individuals who align with our values, vision and team dynamics ensures a strong foundation of trust and collaboration. At the same time, addressing misalignments swiftly protects the positive energy and harmony we've worked hard to cultivate. It’s a simple yet powerful approach that fosters a thriving, supportive environment where everyone can excel and feel proud to be part of the team.
BLP: What changes do you want to see in the industry to help salon owners and hairstylists working in salons grow and thrive?
SM: I dream of seeing more salons embrace a truly blended approach—creating spaces that offer assistant programs, commission stylists and rental opportunities all under one roof. This model encourages collaboration and mentorship, but also provides stylists the flexibility to grow and thrive at every stage of their careers. It’s about fostering an inclusive environment where diverse talents and working styles come together, elevating the industry as a whole. By combining education, opportunity and independence, we can redefine what it means to build a supportive, forward-thinking salon community.
BLP: What’s next for your salon? Do you have any goals for 2025?
SM: We are thrilled to announce that for our 10-year anniversary, we’re unveiling a massive re-brand, and we can’t wait to share it with you! This is more than just a fresh look—it’s a celebration of everything we’ve built, the incredible people we’ve met along the way and the amazing journey we’ve been on together. We’ve poured our heart and soul into crafting something truly special, and we believe it’s going to take the salon experience to a whole new level.
Follow the Salon
Website: www.thesalonbeau.com
Instagram: @thesalonbeau
Our page is a beautiful reflection of the salon’s vibe, showcasing the inspiring work we do every day. We share everything from stunning transformations to behind-the-scenes moments, all to give you a glimpse into the magic that happens in our space.