Today we’d like to introduce you to Scotty Allison.
Scotty, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Growing up a child in small-town Ohio, I always knew that I would end up working in a creative field. I found that math, science and history were ten times more difficult for me to do than the average student. However, when I was doing anything artistic or creative, it was like a second nature for me. At the end of my high school career, I explored different college majors and different industries and I felt like I just couldn’t find the right one for me. I would get so close to “figuring it out” but then something would tell me to look elsewhere.
After high school, I took some time to think and really research different fields. Then it hit me, I’ve always been a social butterfly, I have “twiddled” with hair since before I can remember (from teaching myself how to braid at four years old on my Betty Spaghetty, all the way to curling and braiding my way through dance and cheerleading). It seemed like working with hair was my calling! I explored the industry further and it felt like a perfect fit.
Not to mention, both my grandmother and my great grandmother owned a salon when they were working professionals, so I felt like a legacy. After a year of schooling, another year of training with a Beverly Hills colorist, and many many other amazing experiences, I decided to take my career from my home roots in Cincinnati to the big city of Dallas. I have continued learning and growing here in Dallas and I feel like I am the strongest I have ever been in my profession, and I’m only growing stronger!
Has it been a smooth road?
I feel like the answer to this is obvious: the road is never smooth. Passion always comes with struggles. I have been challenged since the day I decided to work in the field. From working in incredibly competitive salons to being told that my “insecurities” would hold me back from being successful. The Hair Community is a very dog-eat-dog world and one of the most challenging things I have encountered in the industry was finding out who my “cheerleaders” are.
I always try to remind myself that my work is MY work, others work is THEIR work, and to be humble enough to be helpful to others AND to be receptive to constructive criticism and advice. If someone wants to belittle you or shame you for your work? Well, as my fabulous mentor always told me: “that has everything to do with them. It isn’t always about you!”
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I work as a colorist and blow-dry specialist at a beautiful family-owned boutique salon called Jean Philippe Salon, located at Inwood Village off of West Lovers Lane. I call Jean Philippe my home because not only does he and his management take amazing care of his clients, but the Moreau family treats their employees as if they are a part of their own family. Being so far away from my bloodline, I feel as if I have the closest thing to a family almost 1,000 miles away from home. I was hired as a colorist, but have been intricately trained in blow-drying and everyday styling as well, so I also offer blowouts and styles to clients.
My biggest strength is in the art of hand-painted highlights, also called Balayage; however, I have spent 110% of my time making sure I master any color challenge that is placed in front of me. Nothing is more satisfying than a perfectly placed “Dallas Blonde” foil set or a beautiful, rich, shiny dimensional brunette babe! I believe my attention to detail and patience is what makes me stand out as a professional in the industry. I always try to make sure every section of the hair has the same amount of attention as the next, and I truly believe that if everything is done with thought, then it is fool-proof. I like to call myself an “OCD hair artist “.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Absolutely. I have said it time and time again that Dallas has a very well-manicured community. From the lips to the nails, to the shoes, all the way to the hair. In Dallas, especially near Highland Park, you are going to find men and women that truly value their grooming as a necessity, which will put people in your chair and allow you to earn their trust. Starting out at Jean Philippe salon will allow you to learn techniques from the past, present and the upcoming future.
The staff always makes sure to remember where they came from (their bones and structure), focus on what people are asking for right now, and listen to what’s happening in the big cities and in the high-fashion magazines. You will see clients walking out with some of the most classic and timeless haircuts, all the way to some of the trendiest and modern color techniques. I also like to think we have a lot of fun while we work.
Pricing:
- Blow dries and styles are anywhere from $45 to $85
Contact Info:
- Address: 5600 W Lovers Ln
Suite #125
Dallas, TX 75209 - Website: jeanphilippesalon.com
- Phone: 214-350-7897
- Email: scottyloveshair@gmail.com
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