We were lucky to catch up with Summer Olson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Summer thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. The more we talk about good leadership the more we think good leadership practices will spread and so we’d love for you to tell us a story about the best boss you’ve had and what they were like or what they did that was so great?

In 2001 I worked for a full service salon owned by three women who were incredible business owners, educators and mentors. They were behind the chair full time, with each of them having their own established clientele. Every one of them had their own strengths and specialties behind the business and through observation I learned how they communicated with transparency, how they kept a team together throughout many years, and most importantly how they faced adversity- always with grace at the forefront. My time spent there was the jumping off point that led to me developing the idea of a nail “collective”- where everyone specializes in something and brings their own unique traits to the table.

It was through each of those women I learned how far really hard work can take you. “Hard work” to me is not just physical labor, but training your mind to move through incredibly difficult situations involving the back of the house to the front and everywhere in between all while keeping your cool.

Summer, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m the founder of Stash House Az, a full service salon in Central Phoenix. We provide nail, hair, lash and skin services. Over the years we’ve become known as a destination location for one of a kind nail art.

I got started in the beauty industry as a receptionist and salon assistant. After getting my aesthetics license I specialized in skincare and waxing until 2013. From there I decided to go back to school to pursue a license in nail care and in 2014 I opened Phoenix’s first specialty nail art studio.

What sets us apart from others in our field is not only our skillset, but our ability to build rapport with clients by offering a unique and memorable experience.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

In the beauty industry you have to be prepared for anything when it comes to relationships. With co-workers/employees/team members and online review sites. People come with their own agendas and you have to not let anything they eventually do or say affect you personally. By staying true to yourself and your values and not giving in to rampant gossip, you’ve already won any war that’s been waged against you.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Our reputation was built on maintaining relationships both with clients and artists alike. Our team started with three people and now we’re up to 20. I feel it’s because of the support we provide one another in our work environment- Someone is always ready to help another artist troubleshoot a situation or make sure a service is done well.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/stashhouseaz
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/stashhouseaz?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Image Credits
Images: @AngieNailJedi @DiemDidIt @CydTheKidNails @BarrioBabeBeauty