Are you ready to transform your client relationships and build the business—and life—you truly want? Discover how to create an exceptional client experience, set boundaries, and even let go of clients who aren’t the right fit, all while growing a thriving, independent business. Hanna Johnson, owner of The Wicker Chair Salon & Boutique, shares her journey from commission salons to successful suite ownership, revealing the lessons, challenges, and mindset shifts that shaped her career. Whether you’re a stylist, entrepreneur, or anyone seeking more freedom and fulfillment, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and real talk about what it takes to succeed on your own terms.

Highlights

• Hanna’s path from beauty school to independent salon ownership
• The challenges and growth that come from early career experiences
• How losing a job unexpectedly led to independence and business success
• Building deep, loyal client relationships—and why privacy matters
• Creating a premium client experience that goes beyond great hair
• Balancing business growth with personal life and family
• Raising prices, setting boundaries, and attracting your dream clientele
• The importance of community and mentorship in an independent business model
• Navigating difficult client situations and knowing when to say goodbye
• Using AI tools for professional communication
• Why supporting others in your industry leads to collective success

Chapters

• 0:00 — Introduction & Hanna’s background
• 0:52 — Meet Hanna Johnson: Journey in Hairdressing
• 1:41 — Starting Out: From School to Commission Salon
• 2:08 — Challenges and Growth in the Early Years
• 4:11 — The Turning Point: Going Independent
• 6:58 — Building Client Relationships
• 9:11 — Creating a Premium Client Experience
• 14:24 — Balancing Business and Personal Life
• 17:49 — Raising Prices and Client Retention
• 19:15 — Dealing with Difficult Clients
• 22:07 — Using AI for Professional Communication
• 24:29 — The Importance of Community Support
• 27:03 — Mentorship and Business Growth
• 30:28 — The Benefits of Independence
• 32:07 — Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources Mentioned

• Paul Mitchell Schools
  Paul Mitchell Cosmetology Schools
• Wichita Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year Award
  Wichita Chamber of Commerce

To learn more about Utopia Modern Salon Suites, visit our website at https://utopiamodernsalon.com/ or follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn!

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