Rising Stars: Meet Jessica Pantano

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Pantano.

Hi Jessica, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
The story of how I became a hairdresser Is pretty funny. I tell people I was learning how to do hair when I was in my mother’s womb. she was in beauty school while pregnant with me. So, some of what she was learning must have just soaked in! My mother was a salon owner in El Salvador but had to return to Beauty school when she moved to the United States. She came to the US after meeting my father while he was On Embassy duty in the Marine Corps. They fell in love at a costume party in the 80s. Over the years, while Growing up, hair and makeup was something I was very interested in, and it came naturally. I loved to try different looks and techniques on everyone who would let me, including my Guinea pig of a little brother. I have great memories of doing all my girlfriend’s hair for prom and other Events. As I got older, I was more interested in learning business management And hadn’t planned on becoming a hairdresser. At least that was until I became pregnant at 19, and I had to decide what I planned to do with my life. My passion for business and the influences from my mother doing hair is why beauty school was the best option for me. I have never been happier with my decision; My husband and I moved our family to Minnesota in 2020 from San Diego, California. I am a proud mama of four beautiful children, two dogs, and two cats. We came here to purchase our first family home in the area where my husband grew up and wanted to raise our kids. For the last seven years, I have been a salon owner.

I’ve been in the hair business since 2006. I recently joined my new team in Sartell, Minnesota, at a beautiful and sustainable salon called Newtowne Hair. Throughout the years, I have specialized in All things hair and makeup, including color, cuts, extensions, makeup, and more. I was also an educator for a sustainable beauty line out of Italy called Davines. I am very passionate about what I do. I feel like I put my whole heart into making sure every guest leaves feeling like a new beautiful person. I have tried to create a very welcoming atmosphere For my guest and To create The perfect style that best suits them. I will say it’s been a roller coaster ride for the last year, settling in and finding my home here in Minnesota. I can sure tell you, as a California girl, I wasn’t prepared for all the elements that come with living in Minnesota, But I am excited to grow some roots and create A place for my craft and family to grow!

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?

There were several obstacles and challenges that I have overcome to get where I am in my career. The first was making a career change as a young single mother. Working all day and going to school at night. Another challenge I have had to overcome would be Learning the new cuts, styles, and colors, over years of color and product line evolution. Also, Working long hours standing on my feet while pregnant. Another obstacle that is heavy on my heart, is having to sacrifice Some of my family events because having to work during the holidays (a must when you’re hairstylist).

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I love everything I do. Every day behind the chair, I change how people see themselves from the color, the cut, the style, and those coming in with short hair leaving with long hair. Brides are getting all grown up for their special day, and even parents and Their kids trust me to make them feel comfortable and welcomed. I am very proud to have people call me their “hairapist.”

This job has given me so many amazing opportunities that I would’ve never thought possible. As an Educator for Davines, I was fortunate enough to attend the Worldwide Hair tour in Parma, Italy. While In attendance, I learned new styles and techniques from famous industry professionals. I also visited the farm on which the entire line is created and grown. At the farm, we were allowed to help plant the different plants they use to maintain their sustainability goals.

Another proud moment for me was when I visited El Salvador on a mission trip and used my gift of cutting hair to change the lives of those less fortunate than us here in the United States. This was very special to me because, as I said earlier, this is the country my mom grew up in, and I spent much time as a little girl.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Since the beginning of my hair journey, I have had so many wonderful people Who have inspired, supported, and guided me to my dreams and success. One of my biggest supporters is my mother, who has been my rock and the first person to show me what it takes behind the chair. Second, my husband and family have stuck with me through the long workdays, changing locations (multiple times), and also listening to my crazy stories of what goes on throughout the day behind the chair. Another person who has been with me since the beginning and pushed me to be independent while giving me the confidence that I can be amazing is Gigi Linde. I met Gigi while I was in beauty school. She was one of the sales reps at the school. Gigi and I connected pretty quickly. She introduced me to Davines and other amazing lines. Through all the different changes I made, she supported me, kept me motivated, and always showed me what was new in the Industry. Lastly, I have several long-time clients stuck With me through all my Years, and I couldn’t be more Touched by all their loyalty and support. They’re the ones I do this for!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://newtownehair.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/beyondhairbyjess?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/NewTowneHair/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessicapantano?_t=8VYLJpqj79i&_r=1