For years, Frank Bennardo would stroll through the front doors of his favorite hairdresser’s salon and the atmosphere was just the same as what had kept him coming back: the warm welcomes, superior skill, and the expert attention with which his every need was given.
As he slid into the styling chair that morning, the conversation quickly turned to a reoccurring topic that eventually led him down the path to becoming a business owner & entrepreneur.
That day was almost 14 years ago.
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“I heard the horror stories,” Bennardo recalled. “The cramped conditions, the unfair take by the house, the salon politics and owner dictatorship. Many talented stylists and beauty professionals just couldn’t get the financial momentum to open their own storefront. I felt for them and knew there must be a better solution.”
That sparked an idea that has continued to this very day.
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Bennardo started leasing high-end creative spaces to the stylists and beauty professionals of Chicagoland. Sparing no expense with his attention to intricate details, the first House of Salons location, nestled along the riverfront in downtown Geneva, opened in 1999.
The scenic views, courtyard ambiance, and Tuscan charm of the suites were an instant hit with both clients and stylists.
When word got out, every suite was rented out within a few short days. Bennardo knew that he had struck a chord with his luxury vision. A second collection of luxury suites in Geneva also quickly filled to capacity.
Opened earlier this year, House of Salons - Libertyville, located along the commercial hub of Peterson Road, has been raising eyebrows across Grayslake, Mundelein, and Vernon Hills. With this third location under his belt, Bennardo has perfected his winning formula.
“Who doesn’t want to be pampered like royalty? The salon industry should always be about unmatched quality, which sadly, many traditional salons seem to forget. We’re not ashamed of our commitment to excellence,” Bennardo explained.
Drawing talent from local communities, the salon suites are fully customizable to suit the services and personality of each stylist and beauty professional. Granite countertops, crystal chandeliers, and opulent amenities all cultivate a truly magnificent client experience. Bennardo attends to each and every detail, from regular renovations to modernize the suites, to holding showings for stylists interested in leasing a creative space.
Beauticians and stylists are free to set their own hours, determine their services, and sell the products that their clients request. They are provided with all the tools needed for success. It’s just up to the beauty professionals to apply them and see their career flourish.
And Bennardo’s support system does not stop there. He is always only a phone call away if any stylist needs help developing a business plan, printing promotional materials, or expanding their client base. This close professional relationship has facilitated a 100% success rate among those who have partnered with House of Salons – Salon Suites.
Several stylists and beauticians have stayed with Bennardo for the entire 14 years, while others have moved on to starting their own businesses within a short period of time. On average, hairdressers can make nearly $2,000 more each month when joining with House of Salons – Salon Suites than by working out of a traditional salon.
“I’ve always taken the lead when I come across something that I know will work,” Bennardo remarked.
“Why would you settle for anything less than what you deserve?”
For more information on House of Salons – Salon Suites, including partnership opportunities, call 1-630-235-1140 or visit www.houseofsalons.com
