John Vella’s successful career as a hair stylist and salon industry leader spans over 30 years and encompasses work in corporations, privately-owned salons, and now under his own brand – The John Vella Salon. Although his main operation is here in Pittsburgh, John continues to commute to his San Francisco location and to Beverly Hills for red-carpet events. In this episode, John talks about how his career in hairdressing actually found him, why he always knew he would own his own salon, and why it’s important to be really good at what you do.
John Vella discovered his interest in hairstyling at the tender age of 13 when he helped his mother fix a haircut that she wasn’t happy with. After high school, he went on to cosmetology school in Pittsburgh to learn the trade that he hoped would fund his way through college. His love for hairdressing blossomed, and it ultimately took precedence over his plans to become an accountant. John’s first job was with Horne’s Department Store, and he quickly rose through the ranks in his corporate position, which eventually brought him to the West Coast. His passion and drive for his work led to opportunities to style hair for models and celebrities in fashion shows and glamorous red-carpet events.
After a successful beginning to his career in California, John decided to relocate to Pittsburgh in the early 2000s to raise his family. Leaving corporate life behind, he opted for working in privately-owned salons in the Pittsburgh area. He also had a ten-year run as a guest on the “Makeover Monday” show on KDKA-TV. Recently, John started a new chapter in his life when he opened The John Vella Salon. He decided to take everything he has learned throughout his accomplished career and put it to work under his own brand. Today, John spends most of his time in his Pittsburgh salon, but he has continued to maintain a presence in San Francisco and Beverly Hills.
If you have any questions or if you’d like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I’m doing. It means a ton!
YOU CAN REACH ME AT:
Podcast: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.com
Website: https://www.thestartupshoppe.net/podcasts
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilano
Phone: 412-336-8247
YOU CAN REACH JOHN VELLA AT:
Website: https://www.johnvellasalon.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejohnvellasalon
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thejohnvellasalon
Email: TheJohnVellaSalon@gmail.com
Phone: 724-590-1772