Business Spotlight: Getting to Know Kristin Hernandez: Wilde Hare Salon

The Wilde Hare Salon has thrived in downtown Dixon for over 30 years, established in 1977. Kristin Hernandez, the proud owner since October 2011, says she and her stylists believe customer service is the only way to be successful in small business.

"We offer a reward system for clients who purchase salon products, as well as beverages for all clients," Hernandez said.

Hernandez has been in the beauty industry for eight years and has trained with Bumble and Bumble, L'oreal and most recently, UNITE.

Dixon Patch caught up with Hernandez to find out about the new Downtown Dixon Business Association board member and her salon.

1. When did you decide hair stylist extraordinaire was your calling?

I can only ever remember wanting to do hair and make up, period. 

2. What is the most exciting request you've had?

My cousin asked me to do her wedding hair in Jamaica! What an honor.

3. What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is watching the absolute transformation that can occur in 45 minutes to 2 hours, during any given appointment. A client can come in with a totally bogus outlook on life - we're talking, dog died, husband left her, coffee spilled on her white shirt before work, all in one day - but at the end of the appointment, all is forgotten, and she can not stop looking at herself in the mirror. I love watching the psychological transformation with each client. 

4. How do you come up with new styles and color combinations? What upcoming trends do you see for this fall?

I immerse myself in education, whether it be hands-on or reading industry publications. I sketch and paint for inspiration and work on doll heads or fellow stylists constantly.

Fall color trends are heading toward cool brunettes. We are seeing trends move away from chunky, stripey, bleach-blonde highlights and moving more into tonal color blocking; soft, effortless dimension. 

5. If you could have any super power, what would it be?

Infinite energy. Regardless of how it looks, this job is strenuous on our bodies. We aren't just "playing hair." We are on our feet for several hours a day.

6. What is the most important tip you can give for taking care of your hair?

Listen to your hair stylist. We went to school to learn about the structure of the hair and how certain chemicals and products affect the hair. We simply want to educate our clients.

7. Do you remember you first client?

My first client was myself, as with most stylists. The appointment ended with color on my mom's good towels and the bathroom grout, and I was probably grounded for a while, but my hair looked darn good.

8. If you could cut anyone in the world's hair, who would it be?

My Grandma Dunbar. She passed a few years ago, and she was one of my favorite clients.

9. What is the best part of owning a business in Downtown Dixon?

The best part of owning a business in Downtown Dixon is all of the connections I've made.  I was voted on as a board member for the DDBA and I have had the opportunity to network with some of Dixon's finest. We have lots of events on the horizon.

10. What's your dream car?

My car is my dream car. I just bought it last week actually, after a year of not having a car! I'm so blessed... It's an '06 VW Passat 2.0 Turbo! 

The Wilde Hare Salon is located at 180 South First Street, (707)678-1691.