Conversations with the Inspiring Summer Olson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Summer Olson.

Summer, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve been in the beauty industry since 1999. I started off as a receptionist, then became a salon assistant, then gradually pursued my aesthetics license. I was happy being an employee in a salon run by my mentors.

Unfortunately, that salon closed in 2012 and I was devastated.

After noticing a shift in nail artistry, I decided to go back to school in 2013. Nail art had grown so much over the years and its presence on Instagram made me realize there was a void in Phoenix. Yes, we had walk-in shops and high-end nail spaces, but nothing that bridged the gap, and definitely nothing that put ART at the forefront.

I founded Stash House Az at the end of 2014. It was just me at the time, no plan and no clients. I sought out my first partner, Jimmy Nguyen (Buddhas Nails) through Instagram and became his client. I invited him to come work in the space and Stash House Az just progressed from there.

There are currently ten artists working at Stash, each of us specializing in our own styles and representing our respective brands, yet building Stash as a team. It’s more of a collective than anything.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The biggest challenge for us is having to reiterate how we operate. When your business model can’t really be categorized, be prepared to answer A LOT of questions.

Clients are told to reach each artist directly for appointments and they’re confused by that. We operate that way in order for the client and artist to build a lasting relationship as it benefits both parties. In a traditional salon model, clients belong to the house. Not at THIS HOUSE. Clients belong to whoever built the relationship.: THE ARTIST. When it’s time for the artist to seek other ventures, their clientele is secured. There’s nothing better than creative freedom.

As for advice, I say learn to be resilient and operate with empathy. Take the time to understand how each of your teammates communicates and honor each way. Never EVER EVER gossip and never claim to be the best. Let the work, not words speak for your brand.

what should we know about Stash House Az? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
In-salon, I specialize in natural nail services (gel manicures and pedicures mostly). I’m known as Stash House Az’s operations manager and I work hard at promoting the artistry of all of my co-workers.

I’m most proud that everyone on our team is in a position to work at their own pace while enjoying creative and financial freedom.

I feel what sets us apart is our genuine support for other nail shops. We refer clients to artists outside of our salon all the time. We don’t believe in “competitors”, we’re all connected.

It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
I love using Instagram for just about everything. I search through hashtags to find out what’s happening in our industry. I’m also able to learn a lot about our clients through that platform, the nail trends they’re following and what interests they might have. We need to be able to connect with those things.

Contact Info:

• Address: 695 E. Colter St.
  Phoenix, AZ 85012
• Phone: (602) 266-8168
• Email: StashHouseAz@gmail.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/StashHouseAz
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StashHouseAz/

Image Credit:
Nails by @LeibNailz, @Arizonails, @BuddhasNails, @ChicaArtistaNails, @VivaLaVonNails, @BlessedByTheNailGods

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