Today we’d like to introduce you to Judy Tuttle-Wurth.
Hi Judy, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I began my journey in the salon business in 1982, starting behind the chair and quickly evolving into an educator and artistic director, where I had the privilege of working on photo shoots and shows. Over the years, I collaborated with several product lines and dedicated 32 years to one salon before moving to a smaller space to build out 3930 Ego. Now, as we prepare to celebrate our eighth year in business, I reflect on the journey that started when I enrolled in beauty school in 1979. My passion for the fashion industry runs deep, and my favorite part of this work is making clients feel beautiful and excited about their hair. Many of my clients have been with me for 10, 20, or even 40 years, creating wonderful bonds over the decades. I also cherish the occasional new client, as each visit allows me to connect and build relationships. Behind the chair, I find immense joy in transforming lives, one haircut at a time, fostering a welcoming and empowering environment for everyone who walks through my door.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Every story has its ups and downs, and mine is no exception. A significant turning point came in 2012 when my husband passed away. I left the salon where I had worked for 32 years to help run his business while also beginning to establish my own. Just as we started to gain momentum, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, fundamentally altering the landscape for hair salons. The challenges brought on by the pandemic have been immense, and I often feel that the salon industry has yet to fully recover to the vibrancy and excitement it had during my early years. Despite these obstacles, I remain committed to my craft and to creating a welcoming space for clients, holding onto the hope that the industry will regain its former strength and vibrancy.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
After years of working in other salons on a commission basis, I made the decision to switch to chair rental. This model empowers stylists to set their own hours and offer the services they are passionate about. Having spent so many years in the salon industry, often working late nights and weekends, I wanted to create an environment where stylists could enjoy a better work-life balance and have more time for family on weekends. Opening a chair rental salon with an open concept allows for the creativity that a traditional salon offers while giving each stylist the autonomy to run their own mini-business from their chair. It’s a fulfilling way to support their individuality and professional growth in a collaborative setting.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t believe that good or bad luck has influenced my business journey. Instead, I attribute my success over the past 40+ years to hard work and the incredible support of my clients. Their loyalty and trust have been the foundation of my achievements, driving me to continually strive to grow in my craft. It’s this dedication and the meaningful relationships I’ve built that have truly propelled my business forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.3930ego.com/
- Instagram: @3930egosalon
- Facebook: @3939ego
- Other: https://search.google.com/local/writereview
Image Credits
Most of the photos are of the salon. The one that has four of us are the original four that started at the salon. The other one is me walking away with one of the Stylist, Tim, and my dog Turbo, who hangs out in the break room most of the day.
