Exclusive Boss Q&A: Gina Rivera, Phenix Salons Inc
Get the inside scoop from Gina Rivera about her time going undercover in Phenix Salons, Inc.
What was the biggest thing you learned while going undercover?
I learned a new found appreciation for several Salon Professionals in what services they specialize in. Such as Barbering, Nail Technicians and working with Hair Weaves. These are all things that I have never done in my career as a Hair Stylists.
What did you think of your disguise?
I thought it was very “Plane Jane” for my taste. However, it was great in terms of not allowing me to be noticed. It was very different than what I look like every day.
How does it feel to have your business take off in only eight years?
It is a little surreal at this point. I feel very blessed to give so many Salon Professionals an opportunity to own their own salon business and have true freedom.
Which undercover job did you find the most difficult?
By far the Hair Weave. I had no idea the process is so difficult. Any Salon Professional that can do these services have earned my respect and I have a new found appreciation for this.
Do you keep in touch with any of the employees from the episode?
Yes, we have stayed in touch with just about every one of them to some degree. I am looking forward to seeing them in June at our Annual Phenix Salons National Family Reunion.
What's one thing people would be surprised to know about your undercover experience?
I think people would be surprised to know how long the days are when you're undercover. It was very draining.
Do you have any behind-the-scenes stories from your undercover experience to share with fans?
Having my father, who has been dressing hair for more than 50 years work on my wig was a treat. I have learned so much from him over the years and enjoyed having him have a part of this experience.
Where did you find the drive to start your own company?
At an early age, I worked for several Salon Managers that told me I would never make it in the Salon Industry. I turned that negative into a positive and it drove me from an early age to find a way to empower Salon Professionals to have as much freedom as possible.
As a hair expert, do you have any tips for people looking for a new look in the new year?
The new year is a time for change. I have always said “Be Open to Change” and no greater time then just after the holidays. Speak to your Stylists look at magazines and take a leap of faith. It was not too long ago that I actually had long hair.
Do you have any early hair horror stories when you were starting in this business?
One of my biggest horror stories was when I was behind the chair. I just started renting a chair and had a new client. I went through every color on the chart to get to a Blonde. The problem was this took 5 hours and a normal color process is about two hours. I did learn from this today and color is my specialty. I never wanted this to ever happen again.