

Today we’d like to introduce you to Leigh Ann Gibson – Flora Salon and Spa.
Hi Leigh, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
It all started when I was about 8 years old. I am not sure if it was the awful haircut, I received from a loving parent…ahem mom… or the fact that I would cut, color, and style my doll’s hair. This turned into a passion quickly as I became close to my hair stylist, a family friend, and previous owner of my salon. She would invite me to sit in on classes and talk to me about new and exciting things in the hair world. After shadowing her for a senior project I just knew my next step was to attend the Aveda Institute Columbus. After graduating from there in 2008, I worked at many different salons and went through rigorous training programs. Moving from Columbus to San Diego, then onto Portland and back to Ohio I had my fill of different experiences, all adding value to my career. Upon moving back to Columbus and working in a salon I felt I was still searching for more. I contacted my childhood hairstylist, Julie, and asked if she was still thinking about selling her salon. From there it all felt natural and fell perfectly into place. I now own the salon and building that myself and my family members were coming to for many years.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I am not sure if starting/taking over a business could ever be smooth…I am sure deciding to buy a salon 10 months after having a baby all while still in the middle of a global pandemic did not make things any smoother. While the Covid pandemic may have added some extra struggles to our industry, it also created a beautiful shift where people were searching for connection and relationships after being locked down and some, it was a very lonely time. We were able to provide a safe space for those to come in and enjoy our company and environment while receiving services. One thing is for sure-
I was fortunate enough to build relationships with the amazing professionals who were already working at the salon and they chose to stay and work with me after the change in ownership. Without them, I wouldn’t have made it this far. They also inspired me to continue a drama-free work environment that focuses on growth and passion that will pave the way for new talent to come in and grow with us. I am very fortunate to have a supportive husband, who was the main person nudging me towards taking this huge leap forward, even when it may not have been the most convenient time in our lives.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As for me, I specialize in custom color services and I also educate for Davines – one of our in salon brands. I have an amazing team at Flora that specializes in all kinds of services such as; cuts, color, extensions, nails, hair removal, massage and skin care. Since I was able to make this salon my own, it was important to me to make it eco-friendly so I partnered with Green Circle Salons. Through them, we can recycle up to 95% of the waste we create doing what we love every day. The brands we carry (Davines and Aveda) stay true to this mission, they’re sustainable and eco-friendly.
My goal was to create a salon and spa space inspired by what I loved about the salons I worked at before and left out the parts I felt didn’t work. I wanted this space to be open, welcoming, relaxed, fun, and exciting. A place where customers can come in a take a break from their hectic day to have a laugh or sit in silence to relax. The beautiful thing about working at a salon like this is we can work as a team and refer clients to each other without any animosity and this sets us apart. I have always searched for a salon where I can fully use my creativity in my craft and at Flora, I am able to do so.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I was lucky enough to meet someone, my previous salon owner, I have considered a mentor at a very young age. I would venture to say your best mentor maybe someone you already know. If you’re still looking for a mentor, spend more time with others in your current field so you can pick their brain, build a relationship with them. Don’t be afraid to join networking groups! They have been so helpful for me throughout my career and I have also made lasting friendships from them. After purchasing the salon, I joined Sandusky County Young Professionals group and have since become a board member. Now I am lucky to not only network with young professionals in the area but also have some input on events and the future of the organization.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.florasalonspa.com
- Instagram: @florasalonspa
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/florasalonandspa
- Other: Vagaro.com/florasalon