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

Hi Katie, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
I think alot of people think we are “just hairstylist”. We get to do so much more than that. The connections and friends I’ve made through my career are priceless. Also it’s not just a hobby career, there is so much you can do with a cosmetology license. There are many avenues you can take to build your career while still enjoying showing up everyday!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
This is definitely an industry that takes time and patience to get where you want to be. Even then you have to show up and be your best everyday because there’s 1,000 hairstylists nearby so I try to always cater to my salon guests any way I can so they continue to choose me. It’s very important to set yourself apart and I think I do that through my social media as well. I try to showcase my work and really target my audience by the colors I am most in to doing at that time. I love to do all types of color services and I do a ton of blonding! I also work with an associate and do in salon training so my clients get top tier service by having 2 people to cater to them! Our salon is unique because we do have a shareholder program which I became a shareholder in 2021. The salon company is structured toward success for the career minded stylist, estheticians, nail techs and massage therapist. This truly is my passion and being a part of the team at Bellezza Avanti Spa/Salon makes going to work everyday easy and fun!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love going to the zoo or walking the towpath when it’s nice out and going to the Apple Orchard in the fall! We would definitely do brunch at Valley Cafe! If we had the time and it was summer I would recommend going to Cedar Point or Kelly’s Island. Beau’s on the River is a great dinner spot and has an absolutely gorgeous view in all seasons so you have to check them out! Naturally I would bring them in to the salon and treat them to a little self care too!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have had some really amazing mentors along the way for sure! I wouldn’t have the successful career I have behind the chair for almost 20 years if it wasn’t for my early years. Our salon owner Geri Good has kept us up on such great education and teaching us how to build wealth and happiness at home and at work. She’s a the main person I have had in my corner and wanted to appreciate. Also Damon Boswell who was our first salon consultant and taught me so much about superior customer service and valuing each and every salon guest I see! I also like to listen to podcasts from hair industry influencers and Michael Cole books are awesome for anyone in this business. That has definitely helped me along my journey!

Instagram: @KatieVargoHair

Facebook: Katie, Stylist at Bellezza Avanti

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