Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Cooper.
Hi Jen, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My mom came home one day with a new short curly do and I had a full-on tantrum on the floor because I didn’t get to go with her to the salon! Lol I’ve always enjoyed playing with my friends family and dolls hair. My favorite doll was a cabbage patch and each hair had a wire in it so you could style it however you wanted and it would stay. The other dolls ended up very short and or bald by the time I got done with them lol Senior year I was debating whether to do normal college for meteorology or cosmetology, and my best friend convinced me to go to hair school with him in 98! I remember while I was in school knowing that I wanted to teach and maybe even have my own School someday. I’ve had the privilege of working in many Salon environments from Great clips in Lawrence to Red carpet events in LA and Vegas. I’ve been an assistant, done booth rental, commission, managed, traveled as an educator for Regis and Wella corporations, and was an instructor in Kansas and Missouri. Now I’m in my own studio suite in downtown Overland Park for almost 4 years.
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?
A roller coaster effect would describe it well. Just like life, working through the highs and lows, trial and errors. In the corporate world you have to abide by more rules and do things the way they want you to do. For example, working an 8-hour shift even though nobody’s walking in, or having to look a specific way with your hair, makeup, and/or attire. And on the flip side when you’re doing booth rental or running your own business you have to have a lot more discipline with inventory and expenses and paperwork. When I finally left corporate and went out on my own learning and getting used to how to run your own business, communicate with your clients, marketing and advertising we’re all new to me! Feels a lot more smooth sailing now than it used to be.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Cosmoartistry ?
Established in 2009 I was one of the first few salons in KC to offer a non-gender/unisex menu of services. That was super important to me because I saw something that was missing and that so many people were looking for. I’m very proud to have a place where people feel like they could truly be themselves, and feel safe. Approximately 50-60% of my clientele is lgbtqia+ and I’m beyond proud and honored to serve that community and all allies. Some of my specialties and what sets me apart are, energy work via scalp reflexology & massage, sound therapy, Oracle/tarot, power of language, affirmation and intention work. Hair wise….. I loooove short sassy styles, fades, shaved designs, vivid colors, and makeovers!
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Some of my favorite apps are horoscopes virtual based called Co-star, Horos, and Human design. Fundamental books/authors that were very impactful for me many years ago we’re by Eckhart Tolle, Abraham Hicks, a book called The Secret, Ram Dass, Mel Robbins, etc. Podcasts from Mel Robbins, Nrene Brown, queerly attached, telepathy tapes, Jay Shetty, and more.
Pricing:
- Haircuts 45+
- Coloring 85+
- Waxing 15+
- Scalp reflexology 25+
- General hourly rate 60+
Contact Info:
