Today we’d like to introduce you to Joanna Gamez.
Alright, thank you for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us how you got started?
I have always loved the beauty industry and have been intrigued by everything. The Glitz and Glam of it all were like a kid in a candy store for me. I know that sounds so cliché, but it’s true. Lol! I remember thriving in beauty school, which was so natural for me. When I finally worked in a salon, I loved it, but the pay wasn’t what I expected, so I looked into other jobs to pay the bills until my older brother Matthew Sanchez opened up his shop, and I started working there on booth rent instead of commission. It was then that I realized working for myself was so worth it!
I worked with him for 5 years, and after that, I opened up my Salon. A DREAM come true! My Salon is called #DesertGlam Salon. My cousin Danielle Leal and I partnered up to open it. She also worked at my brother’s shop, so it was so perfect to have my cousin partner up with me because we were already comfortable with each other and knew how it was to work side by side. It all happened pretty fast. It was like the opportunity presented itself one day, and we took it the next. It was pretty easy at that point. Once I got my color scheme down, it was a done deal. I’m obsessed with it, and I love when our clients come in and tell us they don’t even feel like they are in Casa Grande and how beautiful our Salon is. It’s truly a Big Blessing. I can’t thank my clients and God enough for making this event possible and making me feel like I’m not working a day in my life because I’m doing what I truly love to do.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has been a smooth road, honestly. The only obstacles I would say are starting and getting your clientele up and being comfortable enough to make it a full-time job and not just a part-time one.
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?
I am a Cosmetologist specializing in Color and Mainly Blonding services. I am known for my balayage/Ombré blonde looks and for working with long, thick dark hair. I am proud of all my Blonding services because I am about keeping the hair’s integrity intact while still feeling healthy and looking fabulous! I can say what sets me apart from others is while I do the blondes, I only do one client at a time to make sure I’m watching it at all times and that it’s not getting compromised or overprocessed since everyone lifts differently because no head is the same. So I always take the best and safe approach to lighten my client’s hair.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those just starting?
Practice makes perfect!!! I don’t know how many times I thought I had something down and when it comes down to it, I’m second-guessing myself. Repetition is key!!! I would also say to trust your instincts because when you believe in yourself, others will also. Don’t let that mistake keep you from playing the game. Just learn from your mistakes and move on. This career is very remarkable and can be VERY rewarding.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://squareup.com/appointments/book/C5JQMTQ0S8BW6
- Instagram: I’m on Instagram as __glambyjo. Install the app to follow my photos and videos. https://www.instagram.com/invites/contact/?i=1naoeulx1amct&utm_content=1wh4i5d
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/GlamByJoannaGamez/

