Meet Summer Olson: Salon owner & nail technician

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

Hi Summer, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
It’s important for me to leave behind the drive and willingness to help others. I want people to remember despite the competitive nature of the beauty industry there was a person who once helped them without any expectation. 

What should our readers know about your business?
Our shop is sort of a “business incubator” for artists who are ready to work for themselves but not quite ready to open their own salons. We prepare new artists for real life client/professional exchanges- the good, the bad and the ugly, as well as give them an established platform to showcase their artistry. The nail industry has changed so much in the last decade and contrary to popular belief, it is now absolutely possible to be newly graduated and licensed and working for yourself. Charging your own rates and determining your own policies on your own time. You just need the support and that’s where we come in. Our salon got to where we are today by maintaining relationships and having the continued drive to connect people to one another. Three of our former co-workers have gone on to open their own respective shops and we like to think we were a jumping off point for them. You gotta start somewhere As far as challenges, there were and continue to be many. But if you have the support of an amazing team you can move mountains. There’s strength in numbers and it’s crazy to think any level of success can be achieved all by yourself because it’s simply not true. People inherently NEED PEOPLE! The most important lesson I’ve learned is no matter your good intention toward someone, not everyone is gonna like or respect you. People have their own agenda and you have to remain adaptable and not ever take things personally. You have to learn to become the shrugging emoji.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would definitely take them to my favorite coffee spot, Dark Hall to raid the pastry case. Then we would probably hit up Zombi World Market to pick up some incense, candles and chat with Genevieve the shop’s amazing owner. For dinner we’d go to Harumi for sushi and then more than likely hit up one of the many hole in the wall bars that have popped up downtown. It’s such a vibe now!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Megan from Mame Soy Luxury Candles https://instagram.com/mamesoycandles?igshid=o287rchokigt

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StashHouseAz/
Yelp: https://yelp.to/GDwmAMoVAcb