Ihloff Tulsa has now celebrated over 35 years in the Tulsa area. We sat down with Ihloff Salon and Day Spa President, Marilyn Ihloff, and asked her to answer a few questions in celebration of this huge milestone for a Tulsa area business. Congratulations to our team for helping us be a success in Tulsa and to all our guests, past and present, for helping make us who we are today:
What made you decide to go into business for yourself?
“I was working for the Coiffures Continental group at Miss Jackson’s Penthouse Salon for 11 years and doing lots of hairdressing work. I was very happy there and had wonderful bosses. In the 1970’s, Sassoon and his vision came into my life and opened up a whole new way of looking at my industry and my profession. This was also the time when the Women’s Movement was sending women into the workplace and also when men began leaving barber shops and coming to salons for the longer seventies looks. I wanted to create a salon the Sassoon Way and also to be able to be open evenings for working women and to be able to allow men to come as well.”
How does it feel to have been in business for 35 years?
“It is humbling and amazing. Our company is blessed with many long-time team members who continue to create an exceptional customer experience and a place where each employee can set goals and grown to become his/her best self.”
Do you have any advice for Small Business owners?
“Read the E-Myth! I think it is the book that best describes the small business experience. Have great mentors and seek their advice. Love and honor guests, team, vendors, and all stakeholders in your business.”
What do you feel is the essence of Ihloff Salon and Day Spa?
“Bringing Balance and Beauty to Life”
What is one of your favorite salon/spa memories?
“I think it would have to be around the holidays. It is high season for us and we all work so hard. Early in the season, we have our company holiday party and everyone dresses up in their finest, grabs their spouse or a best friend, and eats, drinks, and celebrates together. I recently was looking through some photos and each one made me smile – what hard-working, beautiful, and funny people this industry attracts!”
Over the years, what has been hands down your favorite trend?
“I love all the trends. I began in the industry in 1969 with the Mod looks. Then there was Farrah Fawcett, Dorothy Hamill, all the eighties fun, then grunge, etc. etc. The eighties is pretty high on my list as this was the decade the salon opened and we were a colorful and trendy group – we even had a boutique stoked from the New York Boutique Show from 1981-1986.”
Looking forward to another great 35 years in Oklahoma!
