Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Hanna Donahue. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hanna, appreciate you joining us today. Can you share a story with us from back when you were an intern or apprentice? Maybe it’s a story that illustrates an important lesson you learned or maybe it’s a just a story that makes you laugh (or cry)? Looking back at internships and apprenticeships can be interesting, because there is so much variety in people’s experiences – and often those experiences inform our own leadership style.

I landed the internship/assistant job that every girl wanted. It was hard, long hours, and barely any pay. But the experience, and what I would learn would change the tone of my attitude about my career forever. What I was about to start with was going to teach me the how’s and “time is money.”
I was the main assistant for the salon owner in an extremely busy salon. My job was cleaning, shampooing, set her day up, checking clients out, etc. It was extremely busy and fast pace, I had no idea what I was doing. Until one day my boss told me, “One day you will understand all of this, it will just make sense, but you have to earn it.”
I thought. “It’s just Hair!” It’s not and she was right. It changed from that day on. I learned a respect an appreciation for the craft and all that it would mean to me, I feel in love 100%. I became my job, I strived to be the best assistant I could be. I was going to own my own salon one day.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

As long as Hanna Donahue can remember, she has had an affinity for all things hair. She took her passion and ran straight into the world of beauty.
Working in the hair industry for nearly 23 years, Hanna has become one of the most sought after stylists in the state for her custom colors and her open mind which guides her to explore every style — from classic to editorial. She has trained under Johnny Ramirez and 901 Academy and is a Master Stylist through John Paul Mitchell Systems. Hanna is continuously educating herself to better her techniques to keep your hair looking and feeling healthy and amazing.
In 2012 Hanna opened Salon Tru-Blu, located in the Historic District on Gurley Street. Salon Tru-Blu is a Paul Mitchell focused salon, carrying only the best colors and products. At Salon Tru-Blu, expect an atmosphere of laughter, joy, and relaxation.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Most effective way I feel I have built my clientele…

For me it’s simply, “I work my business, everyday.”
What does that mean.. Consistency is the key, and know your job secondly. I know my job and I love my job.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

My best source of new clients is my Instagram page and my daily presence on social media. I have to teach my self , “how to,” How to stay fresh and up to date in every aspect. I have created a brand for my self and my art. Through my continued education that has helped me structure my business, and help me maintain boundaries for my self, personally and professionally.

Contact Info:

• Website: salontrublu.com
• Instagram: salon.tru.blu
• Yelp: Salon Tru Blu

Image Credits
Bevan Garrett Jennifer Allerdings Kelly Schaffner Sophia Doyen Denise Green Stacy Fisher Carrie Parker