Suki’s is a local family business in Vancouver founded by Suki Takagi in 1972. Takagi started with just one salon location and now Suki’s has grown to operate five locations across three cities. Suki’s is a company deeply connected to its roots. They were started by a hairdresser and have continued to grow and evolve based on the decisions made by over 150 hairdressers who now work there. We spoke with Jessi Pinto, a Suki’s Colour Technician and Instructor, to learn more.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Suki’s and we’re a hair salon.
What made you want to do this work?
How creative I get to be. And how confident and beautiful I can make other people feel.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
Improving the communication between the hairdresser and the clients, so I can help them find the right look for their lifestyle.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
I have a varied clientele of all types of people, but I do get a lot of younger clients with long, thick hair. Possibly because I have the same type of hair so they know I’ll take care of them.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
Doing hair services, recommending and selling haircare products, and part of the wage of a hairdresser comes from gratuities.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
I work at the Downtown Suki’s salon, located on the second floor at 1030 West Georgia Street (Alberni Street side of the building).
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
The best question someone can ask, especially about hair colour services, is to ask what the maintenance for the hair will be. It’s important for us to be honest with the clients and work with them to find what’s best for their lifestyle.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is making people feel confident and beautiful, but mostly I love making them happy. The worst part is how physically demanding the job can be.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
“Hairdressing is basically therapy but with better lighting and a blowdry.”
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
I love wine and would like to recommend a local winery called “La Fabrique St. George”.
