Today we’d like to introduce you to Janet Whetston.
Hi Janet, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started my career like many stylists do -with a passion for hair and a strong work ethic, but very little guidance on how to build a long-term, sustainable career. Early on, I watched talented people leave the industry not because they lacked skill, but because they lacked structure, training, and direction. When I opened my salon, I made a decision to do things differently. I focused on developing young talent and supporting stylists who came from other salons feeling stuck or undertrained. I built systems and standards that support both creativity and business growth, believing that when people are properly trained and supported, they can truly thrive.
That approach has allowed our team – and the business – to grow steadily. Today, I’m proud to mentor the next generation of professionals and help them build careers that are not only creatively fulfilling, but sustainable for the long term.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all. Like most small business owners, the road has been full of challenges. Early on, one of the biggest struggles was pushing against industry norms – implementing structure, standards, and accountability in a field that often resists them. That wasn’t always popular, and at times it meant difficult conversations and hard decisions. There were also the typical growing pains: hiring the right people, learning through financial mistakes, and adapting systems as the business evolved. But each challenge clarified what worked and what didn’t. Those struggles ultimately strengthened the foundation of the business and reinforced my belief that structure, training, and consistency are essential for long-term success.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Our business is built on the belief that talent alone isn’t enough – training, structure, and genuine care are what create long-term success. We specialize in developing young professionals straight out of school, as well as experienced stylists who come to us seeking clearer direction and stronger foundations. Service-wise, we’re known for thoughtful, high-quality solutions that support hair health and confidence, including modern colors, highlights, balayage and haircuts. integrated toppers for thinning hair, hair extensions, our luxury head spa treatments designed to promote scalp health, hair growth, luxury brow & lash services, and manicure & pedicures .Everything we offer is approached with intention, education, and long-term results in mind.
What truly sets us apart is our culture and standards. We hold ourselves to a high level of professionalism while maintaining a kind, supportive environment. Our team values taking care of people – not just how clients look when they leave, but how they feel while they’re here. That care extends behind the scenes through our detailed training and development systems, which we now also share with other salon owners to help them train and grow their own teams.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the environment we’ve created – one where excellence and compassion coexist. What I want readers to know is that our brand stands for longevity: in healthy hair, sustainable careers, and businesses built to last.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was a total tomboy. I loved being outside – fishing, swimming, and spending hours lost in books. I wasn’t interested in fashion or doing my hair, and honestly, I didn’t care much about either at the time. Personality-wise, I was quiet and fairly shy, but also feisty once you got to know me. I’ve always had a strong inner drive and a willingness to stand my ground, even if I wasn’t the loudest person in the room. Looking back, that mix of observation, independence, and determination still shapes how I lead and how I build both people and businesses today.
Pricing:
- hair cuts start at $43
- Highlights start at $130
- Head Spa starts at $95
- Brow Artist services start at $35
- Toppers are custom pricing
Contact Info:
- Website: www.theabodesalon.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abodesalon/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abodesalon
