Berlin's Wendy Scalora Says There Is So Much More Than Just A Hair Cut

Berlin native Wendy Scalora celebrated her 25th year as a hairdresser and cosmetologist this past year and her passion for her work has never been stronger.

"I've been doing this since I was 19," Scalora said. "I knew I wanted to do this since I was five years old. I used to cut the hair off my Barbie dolls. When someone walks in to see you they want you to make them feel beautiful. That feeling of being beautiful is different for everybody.

Scalora, who works at Fran's On The Ave., says the consultation before the appointment is the most important part of the visit. 

"You have to listen to you client," she said. "I have worked in a lot of different salons and spas and I saw it all the time where hairdressers just want to get you in and out of the chair and make that money. I can't stand it when I see it but it happens all the time. I love to take the time to talk to the client to find out a little about them and find out what they are looking for. You have to find out what kind of lifestyle they have, as well. Are they running out the door in the morning without doing their hair or do they spend an hour before going out? That's important. It's not what you think will look good on them but what they think will make them feel beautiful."

Scalora has studied with many make-up artist from New York City to Boston to Los Angeles. 

"There is always someone better than you in any job," she said. "That's why I try to learn something new every day. If you think you're the best and don't try to keep learning, that's when you start to slip."

Among the many services Scalora offers at Fran's are: Make-up artistry, body make-up, hair extensions, precision hair cutting and coloring, corrective cutting and color, all coloring, up-dos, ombres, wedding and special occasions.

Scalora began her career at Joel's and then moved to Definitions of Hair and The Hair Company before opening her own salon, Salon 16 LLC, which she ran for 15 years. She has worked at Fran's for the past year. 

"I've been doing this so long that I get a reminder every once in a while," she said. "I have cut the hair of children in booster seats and then done their weddings. I've had people come and go but they always seem to come back. I've cut the hair of moms or dads and now I'm cutting their children. I've done styling for kids Holy Communions and then their wedding. It's kind of crazy but it's so rewarding."

Scalora works Tuesday through Saturday and she can be reached at (860) 916-0710.