This special section highlights the inspiring women shaping the future of business in Jefferson City. From innovators to industry leaders, we showcase their journeys, challenges, and successes — showing that ambition and impact go hand in hand.
Amy Fechtel | Studio 1 Salon Co.
Hair Salon
What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and how has that passion shaped your journey as a businesswoman?
“I’ve been in the cosmetology industry for 30 years. The younger version of myself began the journey eager to learn and make clients look and feel beautiful about themselves. As time went on, I became very comfortable behind the chair, expanding into leadership and management roles. The journey as a businesswoman began when I stepped into the ownership role. As a female, I feel compelled to educate and mentor young female stylists joining this fast-paced industry.”
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how have you overcome them?
“Honestly, my biggest challenge every day is my mindset. One of my favorite quotes is by Henry Ford: ‘Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right!’ I tell my team, ‘Just keep going, keep growing.’”
What strategies or habits have been most effective in helping you achieve your business goals?
“I’m a non-stop learner, even after all of these years in business. It’s constantly changing, and it’s easy to get left behind in the hair industry. Trends change, products change, and technology changes. I’m a business podcast junkie, and I utilize Audible to listen to books as much as possible.”
How do you approach leadership, and what values guide your decisions when man-aging a team?
“I have learned over the years that just because it works for one person, it may not work for another. I have learned patience and compassion as a leader. In the hair industry, my team members are considered artists. They tend to be creative, passionate, innovative, free-spirited, and kind-hearted. Our main focus is to be kind to one another, be kind to the client that sits in their chair, and to be kind on the phone. We really never know what another individual is dealing with or going through.”
What role has mentorship played in your career, and how do you give back to the next generation of women in business?
“I was a student for many years in this industry, and there is so much more to learn. I remember listening to what verbiage worked and what didn’t work, listening and asking questions to clients to fulfill their hair needs and solve their challenges. Hairdressers are in the business of building trust and establishing a relationship with the client. We coach and mentor our stylists to build trust and establish a relationship with their clients. We have created a co-stylist program for new stylists entering the hair industry. The recently graduated stylist builds confidence, hones their skills, and works side by side with an accomplished stylist who is their educator during the program. This is how we give back to the next generation of hair stylists.”
How do you stay innovative and adaptable in a constantly changing business?
“Social media is an excellent resource for us. Everything is computerized, which is an asset to the company. We utilize the latest POS system for all items of the business. I always observe, listen, and educate myself on the latest marketing trends to grow my team.”
What advice would you give to women aspiring to start their own businesses or move into leadership roles?
“Do your research, educate yourself, ask questions, and be a student. Also, be kind, but strong. If it scares you, do it anyway! If you’re told no, don’t give up. Go back to the drawing board. No, does not mean forever; it just means not today. Reflect, reevaluate, and redirect. Embrace change; you will grow and change in so many ways that will be unrecognizable to you!”
How do you measure success in your career, and how has that definition evolved over time?
“Early in my career, I used to measure success with numbers. Yes, sales are important and vital to a company. But now, I measure it by happiness. I think, ‘Are we having fun in the salon? Is the environment supportive, nurturing, and drama-free?’ It’s contagious; a happy and fulfilled team equals happy clients!”
(573) 634-2127 | studio1jeffcity.com | 801 W. High St., JCMO