Inspiring Conversations with Lauren Wermersen of rooted. By Lauren is the name of my business.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Wermersen.

Hi Lauren, 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?
After HS I went to college for early childhood education. Once I got to my student teaching I realized quick that education wasn’t for me. I was always interested in hair, makeup and fashion. I quit college and up and moved to NYC as a live in nanny. I ended up working for a family where my boss was the VP of a high end makeup company. She and I hit it off and once my contract was up she hired me to work for the makeup company. NYC was starting to burn me out and my sister lived in Dallas where an Aveda Institute for Cosmetology was opening. My job with Trish McEvoy allowed me to move to Dallas where I could continue to work for them, but also start cosmetology school. After cosmetology school I began my journey as a hairstylist. I worked for 2 different Aveda Salons, one being Tangerine (the official salon for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders). During my time as a stylist I’ve got to be involved in many different experiences like fashion weeks etc. After 6 years of working in Dallas I moved to Iowa for my now husband. After almost 5 years there my husband was offered a job in Kansas City which brought me back home. After working for a salon here in Kansas City for 4 years I decided to take a risk and go out on my own!

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?
When I was in NYC I really struggled with what I wanted to do with my life. I felt the pressure to finish school and my degree, but the passion and drive wasn’t there. I was 22-23 years old and I felt like I was too old to start cosmetology school (which is crazy). I felt like I was starting all over while watching all my friends start their careers or be in their careers. Right after I graduated cosmetology school I started my Apprenticeship. There wasnt much time for a personal life. I worked crazy hours and every weekend. It was hard to have a normal life. But I knew If I stayed focused, it would benefit me in my future.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Going out on my own I knew I’d be able to design my own space and put the
Vision I’ve always had into fruition. I’ve always been obsessed with design, so this was fun for me. I wanted to set myself apart from others by doing things that made my clients feel like they were still in a high end luxury salon. Little things like hot towels with aroma scents, scalp massages, high end beverages, snacks, a beverage menu with my logo and wine and coffee cups with my logo. I want my clients to feel like they are being heard, in a safe and clean space, where they can relax, unwind while getting pampered. I do not double book so that the client in my chair gets my undivided attention.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
Joanne Pigozzi. I would not be where I am at today without her push but also giving me the opportunity to explore my passion for the beauty industry. Without meeting Joanne, I don’t know that I’d be where I am today.

Holly Wilson Sanchez, my mentor at the first salon I worked at after cosmetology school. She taught me things that I still use today. I also followed in her footsteps and taught education in the way she did. I don’t think I would’ve survived in that first salon without her mentorship.

My mom, supporting me through every life venture I’ve been through. Never questioning my decisions, just there to support and encourage.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rootedbylauren.glossgenius.com/about
• Instagram: rooted.bylaurensalon