New Tampa Gets New Hair Salon

Jan Thomas, 41, started her career as a hairstylist 24 years ago when she became an assistant/intern for Posh salon in West Palm Beach. For six months, Thomas washed hair, mixed dyes and did anything else her mentor needed until she was offered a management position. A few years later, Thomas moved to the Lutz area and, for the next two decades, crafted her skills and built her client base.

Now, Thomas has started a new career chapter with the opening of her own hair salon, Studio j. It marks the completion of a nearly life-long goal.

“Many of my clients that I’ve developed throughout the years have followed me to my studio,” Thomas said of her Bruce B. Downs Boulevard shop, which opened its doors on April 5.

She feels it’s the perfect time to create a place for clients to get their hair done exactly up to her standards. A commitment to excellent client relations, and the creation of a soothing environment, are some of the things Thomas said she incorporated into her salon.

According to Thomas, becoming a hair stylist involves more schooling than some may realize because it’s important to know the chemical reactions of hair dyes and bleaches. And continuous schooling is crucial to retain a competitive edge due to ever-evolving styles and procedures.

“About every four months we go to a class, seminar, training session or other type of informative event to continue learning and developing our skills,” Thomas said.

Some of the special aspects of Studio j are the exclusive intimate setting and the fact that every hairdresser has a private room, Thomas said. There is also a chic waiting room with complimentary beverages for guests. Studio j, too, is an exclusive carrier of the high-end, European hair-product brand Label.m.

Thomas said she invited two of her friends and finest stylists to join the salon because she believes they are the best in the Tampa area. “I have a great team," she said. "We are always laughing and having a great time."

Felicia Isola became a hair dresser a little more than eight years ago. Her aspiration is to make people beautiful and give them the individual attention they require, she said.

“I enjoy working here; I get to dress nice and look good every day,” Isola said.

Sherri Van Eyck became a hair dresser more than 22 years ago. Van Eyck met Thomas while working at a local hair salon and is excited about Studio j.

“This is a fun place to work,” Van Eyck said.

Thomas feels her prices are very competitive considering the high level of trained and skilled hair dressers, she said. Included in the base price is the consultation, which determines the customer’s needs and wants. There is a bit of an educational component, as well.

“We teach our customers how to take care of their hair and easy ways to maintain the beauty of the styling,” Thomas said.

Although Thomas accomplished her dream, growth is always important. She said in the near future she might decide to add more services like facials, and do hair for bridal shows and even out-of-state weddings.

“I don’t know what exactly will happen next, but I’m sure I’ll think of some way to expand,” she said.

More Information:

Address: 14446 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.
Phone: (813) 903-2640
Website (which includes prices): www.studiojtampa.com 

Hours:

Tuesdays: 11a.m – 4 p.m.
Wednesdays: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Thursdays: 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.
Fridays: 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sundays and Mondays: closed