Meet Jessica Mahr | Salon Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jessica Mahr and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessica, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Before I even started Cosmetology school, I knew that my main goal would be to own my own salon. I had been behind the chair for a little over 10 years before I made the decision to open J Studio. It was at the height of the pandemic when I decided the time had come for me to branch out on my own and opening a small business during that time was nothing short of terrifying, During the summer of 2020, I really sat down and weighed out the pros and cons. I have always had two, sometimes 3 jobs ever since I could remember and I missed out on a lot of time with my friends and family. The major pro that came to mind was Freedom. Freedom to make my own schedule. Freedom to have the ability to take time off when I needed it most and freedom to be able to finally have that Saturday afternoon off to spend with my loved ones. The decision did not come easy and having to navigate opening a business on my own was scary, but it has been the best choice I have made.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Something I became very passionate about early on in my career were Hair Extensions. I was introduced to them at one of the first professional salons that I had worked for and I instantly knew this was an area I wanted to specialize in. In 2017 I became a National Educator for Donna Bella Hair, traveling the US and teaching other like minded stylists how to elevate their careers by offering this service. Hair is very defining for some individuals and being able to create major transformations with the help of Hair extensions has been the ultimate game changer for my business and clientele. I can truly say I am proud of the brand I have built being an Extension specialist.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Columbus truly has so many wonderful things to do, we are so lucky! My perfect week in Columbus would look something like Dinner and drinks at my favorite restaurants Forno and SOW plated, walk around Book Fest at the Columbus metropolitan Library, Head to South High drive in and catch the latest movie, attend a hockey game to cheer on the Blue jackets and end with night caps at Bobs bar.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to give the biggest shoutout to my Friends and Family who have supported me since day one. You all have been my clients from the very beginning and to have your continued support over the last 15 years truly makes me forever grateful!

I’d also like to thank my team at Donna Bella hair. They have pushed me outside of my comfort zone and had confidence in me that I didn’t have for myself and I would not be the educator I am today without them. Thank you all!

Website: https://www.vagaro.com/jstudio614

Instagram: @Hairbyjmahr