Life and Work with Joni Kertesz

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joni Kertesz.

Joni, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My story starts out as a restless teenager with a knack for art. I wanted to be a photographer and actually started out being a punk rock band photographer. I wanted to work for Rolling Stones magazine someday so decided I needed a degree in journalism. After a hellish start in college, I was unmotivated.

My mother seeing how discouraged by classical education suggested hair school. But with a great degree of warning, she told me I would work harder than most and put my body through hell. I can’t tell you how much of a challenge that brought to my competitive side. Besides, I did come from a long line of hairdressers in my family. It seemed fitting.

I started school shortly after and was obsessed! The speed of the game and meeting new people; I was rarely bored. I found my niche!

When I completed school, I apprenticed at one of the toughest salons around. I can’t tell you how much that experience gave me the thick skin I have today. Working with fiercely dedicated stylist gives you whole new respect for your craft. And a few tears.

I eventually moved on and began finding my rhythm as a stylist. Moving from salon to salon until I found the right salon that fostered my individuality as well as my business. I moved an entire business from Scottsdale into Cave Creek to be closer to my kid’s school. It was terrifying but as a working single mom, it was necessary.
Working at bE salon turned me into the stylist I wanted to be. And I’m happy to say I’m the manager and Director of Education for our stylist.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has been a rough road. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve restarted my business. I’ve scrapped routines that didn’t pay off. I exiled people that took advantage of my craft and cried a bunch. But what never changed was my passion to keep trying. Eventually, you find what works and for me was to continue inspiring my trade with continuing education. It’s nice to be in a field where people want you to be successful.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am currently the manager and director of education for bE salon. I help coordinate educators for my staff as well as teach some of my own classes.

I’m known around town as the Blondeologist as I love a good blonde. If you see a stunning blonde around, you can be sure I’ve had a part in it. Even if it’s just mentoring the stylists around me. I also enjoy a strong pixie cut as well.

What sets me apart from most stylists is a desire to learn. Not just learn from seasoned stylist but all stylist. We all have things we can pick up from other people and even tips and tricks from our own clients!

I also promote great communication between clients and stylist. No one wants to feel unheard, so I make it a priority for people to tell me whatever it is they need, whether it’s hair-related or not!

Were there people and/or experiences you had in your childhood that you feel laid the foundation for your success?
I came from two parents who worked fiercely. I think that sparked a work ethic to always be proud of the work you do. I’ve been working in their shop assembling furniture from when I was 14, eventually getting to be on deliveries and then the office assistant.

When times were tough, I never thought twice about having to take a second job as a server to make ends meet.

I was always taught to work hard and you’ll get the reward. It’s never been truer than being a hairdresser. You get out only what you put into it.

Pricing:

• Basic baby light service $150
• Platinum card $160 and up
• Haircuts $50

Contact Info:

• Website: Besalonaz.com
• Phone: 6023841819
• Email: jonikertesz@gmail.com
• Instagram: Azblondeologist_joni

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