Meet Rachelle Yarnell | salon owner and working stylist

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

Hi rachelle, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
I started my journey as a young single mom. It was tough. I was trying to figure out adulthood, motherhood, and who I was—all at once. Later, I was married, raising kids as two working parents… until I was single again for 14 years.

In 2007, I opened my first salon. I built this business behind the chair—styling, managing, creating. But I was also raising boys, juggling school, sports, family dinners, and growing a dream. Some days were chaos. Some days, magic. Most days, both.

Looking back, I realize how much I owe to my parents, my family, and the amazing coaches and teammates who surrounded my kids. My boys are strong, kind, and independent—not because I did it all, but because I had help. And they had role models beyond me.

I worked nights. I worked weekends. I missed some moments—but I was there for the big ones. And I always celebrated the wins, even when I had to cheer from the salon floor.

Honestly… I think it’s a work in progress.

To me, it’s like a pie—sometimes one slice takes up more space than the others. Some weeks, it’s all about the business. Other weeks, it’s family, or health, or just trying to catch my breath. Balance doesn’t mean everything is equal—it means I keep showing up and adjusting.

I’ve learned that failure isn’t fatal. Missing a moment, needing rest, making a mistake—it doesn’t define you. What matters is that you get up, try again, and keep going.

It’s never going to be perfect. And that’s okay.

Work-life balance is about grace. It’s about learning when to push, when to pause, and when to celebrate the small wins. Some days, balance looks like a packed salon and a late dinner with my kids. Other days, it’s skipping work to make the game.

At the end of the day, I’m still here. Still doing it. Still trying.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The Studio Salon Group is made up of three unique salons, each with its own personality—but all rooted in the same mission: to create beautiful results, meaningful careers, and unforgettable experiences.

✨ The Studio – Ohio City has a warm, boutique vibe. It’s cozy, community-centered, and all about personalized care with a professional edge.i
✨ The Studio – Downtown our creative downtown energy hub. Fast-paced, artistic, and filled with stylists who thrive on transformation, color, and connection.

✨ Facet Salon & Spa offers the full experience—hair, nails, massage, skincare. It’s where beauty meets balance, and clients walk in to relax and recharge.

As an educator in the beauty industry, I’ve had the privilege of teaching across the country—and that experience has poured directly into how I train and lead my team. From technique to professionalism, I’ve been able to guide stylists not just in what they do, but how they grow.

And let me be honest—growth hasn’t been a straight line. It’s been long hours, late nights, missed events, big wins, and bigger lessons. But we’re still here. Stronger. Smarter. Still building something that matters.

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?
If my best friend came to visit? Oh, we’re making the most of it.

Here’s the perfect “Rachelle-style” Cleveland week—a mix of fresh air, good food, local gems, and convertible-top-down kind of joy:

Day 1:
We’d kick off the trip with a cruise down scenic backroads—top down, music up, sun on our shoulders. We’d grab coffee at Cellar Door Coffee Co. in Garrettsville. hometown café for a pastry or two. It’s peaceful, charming, and the perfect way to ease into vacation mode.

Day 2:
We’re off to Lake Erie for beach walks, breezy lake views, and wine tastings along the Lake Erie Wine Trail. Ferrante, Laurello, South River—yes, we’re hitting them all (with snacks and sunset selfies, obviously).

Day 3:
Time for baseball! We’ll grab seats at Progressive Field to cheer on the Guardians and feel the city energy. A ballpark beer and hot dog? Mandatory. After the game ,stop at my downtown salon to get a shampoo and style before we hit the flats and grab dinner and drinks.

Day 4:
A chill day at home. Just me, my bestie, the grill, and the backyard. We’ll fire up some good food, sip something cold, and catch up under the string lights.

Day 5:
Morning trip to West Side Market—a foodie’s paradise. Grab fresh bread, spices, maybe some pierogies. Head to my salon to get a fresh blowout! Then explore Ohio City’s shops and sip something fun at Great Lakes Brewing Co. or TownHall.

Day 6:
Local boutique hopping, maybe a quick service at one of my salons (because yes, visitors get spoiled) I’m thinking Facet salon and spa.. we would do pedicures at the same time and just catch up. Dinner out at a cozy local spot with a great patio.

Day 7:
One last drive—through the Cuyahoga Valley, maybe a hike or waterfall stop—and coffee in hand as we wrap up the week. No rush. Just grateful hearts.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
As I reflect on the journey of building The Studio Salon Group and raising my family, I feel a deep responsibility to acknowledge the people who made it all possible.

First and foremost, my parents. Their presence was unwavering—from showing up at every game or school event to helping with meals, childcare, and support in every form. They’ve been the quiet, consistent foundation in my life, always there, never asking for thanks.

To my brother and his family, thank you for being more than relatives—you helped raise our kids like brothers. Our lives were blended with love and teamwork, and I cherish those years deeply.

To my community—the coaches who gave my boys rides when I couldn’t, the teachers who cared beyond the classroom, and the school secretary who made sure I got the paperwork in, even when I was across the state teaching. Your support made me feel seen and helped me hold it all together.

To my incredible salon team—thank you for believing in this dream. Your passion, talent, and commitment bring our mission to life every single day.

And to our guests—whether you’ve sat in my chair or one of my stylists’—thank you for your trust. We don’t take it lightly. We always strive to give you our best.

I’ve been lucky. I’ve been blessed. And I’ve never done it alone.

Website: https://www.thestudiosalon.biz/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hairendipity_rachelle/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelle-yarnell-853b0423/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/studiopaulmitchell/

Other: have 2 other websites
https://www.thestudiosalondowntown.com/
https://www.facetsalonandspa.com/