We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ashley, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Keeping everything authentic. I am very upfront with my guests ab their hair and the services they desire. I don’t glamorize my words to sound legitimate. I choose to be genuine and people always appreciate that. I’m a firm believer that the truth (when delivered properly) is always the best communicative approach as a service provider.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I honestly have to say my guest service is what sets me apart. Many people think guest service isn’t what sets businesses apart from each other. To that I suggest renting a room at a motel and afterwards renting a room at St. Regis…then you will get a very good idea of what guest service actually is. My father always told me to work in a restaurant to gain life skills (and not to mention always have “a little piece of change in your pocket.”) So I did. That was the beginning of what created the uncompromising service I extend to every single guest who walks through my door. The first lesson I learned as a server (because we were not waitresses) was the 3 C’s. Of those 3 C’s, the first was Communication. That is literally what set us apart from many, dare I say MOST restaurants. And that is what sets me apart from many other hairstylists (some of whom are better skilled than myself). However, you will never leave my salon wondering or feeling as though you were not taken care of. Complimentary beverages, scalp massages, genuine care for every guests’ hair, gentle styling, a thorough explanation of haircare and a listening ear are just a few things I have engraved into my brand.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, I haven’t lived in the city for nearly 2 decades, but we would most definitely make a lunch date at Strange Taco Bar in Lawrenceville for some amazing cajun shrimp tacos and house made pico! Afterwards walk through downtown Lawrenceville and make a a couple stops in the boutiques for a little shopping. We’d for sure have to take a drive to Ponce City Market and grab MORE food (and drinks) followed by even more unique shopping. I’m always about a good festival, and The Atlanta Jazz Fest is a must (during its season)! I’m a pretty mellow girl, so booking a massage at Heal Thyself in the Grant Park area would definitely be on the list of to-dos, as well. And let’s not forget ab some good old Buckhead thrifting for the “inexpensive” win! Lastly, we would absolutely have to visit the best restaurant around…Houston’s!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Several people have significantly contributed to my success thus far. The one person who has seen the good, bad and ugly of this journey is my husband. I remember the day I told him I could not go back to the classroom and teach because teaching had become miserable for me. So, he suggested doing hair and that I’d be great at it. He rooted for me every step of the way from cosmetology school, to state boards to now owning my own salon suite…and the rest is history.
Website: https://hairbyashleybrooke.glossgenius.com/
Instagram: @hairbyashleybrooke
Youtube: Hair by Ashley Brooke