I had the opportunity to sit down with Nina Grullon, Master Colorist and owner of 5th Ave Hair Studio. Nina is a wonderful, charming woman who is highly experienced in achieving charming hair, irrespective of hair type or client goals. I can watch Nina in action and see how her passion and confidence comes through working on her clients all day long.
Social Lifestyle: Please share your background with us?
nina: I’m from Georgia and that I moved to the United States more than 20 years ago. Shortly after moving to the states, I made a decision to go to school and get a license to style hair.
Social Lifestyle: How did you know coloring was your passion?
nina: Ever since I was a child, I have had a passion for hair. I used to spend my time doing my friends’ hair when I was in highschool.
Social Lifestyle: When did you start 5th Avenue Hair Studio?
nina: I started 5th Avenue Hair Studio in September 2014. I’m so grateful to have the ability to open my studio and do what I love every day!
Social Lifestyle: Tell us about the services you offer and your work environment.
nina: While we are like many salons, our focus is on hair color and extensions, which are the specialty services our clients are best known for.
As stylists, we are at all times happy to work in a peaceful environment which is also what our clients crave. The 5th Ave Hair Studio team is here to provide exceptional service whether it is with hair or easy customer care. This salon dynamic makes us stand out from our competitors.
Social Lifestyle: Tell us about hair extensions.
nina: Hair extensions are at all times an excellent way to give our clients an excellent makeover. As spring and summer draw near, we do not see our clients drifting away from them. We use a really detail oriented method that mimics natural hair growth creating a flawless blended finish. We have explored many methods and found that keratin nano capsules are the way to go. We also use virgin hair which allows our clients to explore freely with their colours.
Social Lifestyle: Spring has come. Any new trends for our readers to pay attention to?
nina: Shag haircuts appear to be in the spotlight this year and adding bangs whether it be a side swept, asymmetrical or curtain bangs is what gives our clients a stylish new look. As far as color, we added a bit more warmth than we have seen in last few years, which was refreshing after all the ash tones we focused on. Keeping things natural and low maintenance is the focus.
Social Lifestyle: Let’s discuss how hair changes with age.
nina: Age does play a big role for many of us, but I must say that just as our younger clients go out with fashion colours following the latest trends, our older clients do the same. I believe there isn’t any wrong or right. Some people believe that you should cut your hair really short, make it dark or blonde and keep it easy, but it is your hair. You do what feels right for you!
Social Lifestyle: Women in their 40s and 50s generally like to hang their long hair up. Any suggestions on how they should take care of their hair?
nina: There’s no big secret to healthy hair. Just maintain a good hair care routine, brush, braid and treat it like gold.
Social Lifestyle: What’s your favourite part about the beauty business?
nina: I like interacting with people and making people feel better. I make my clients a precedence and ensure they feel and look their best when they leave my chair.
Social Lifestyle: We noticed that you’re using the ORIBE line which happens to be our favourite. What is your reason for bringing that line compared to many on the market?
nina: I like the quality of their products. I’ve been using ORIBE since it came out on the market. They are among the best luxury hair care brands in the market. Every product does precisely as advertised. You can sell their product with confidence knowing that it’s going to bring you the best results.
Social Lifestyle: Tell us a little something your clients do not know about you.
nina: I studied in Georgia and majored in business which has helped me get my business up and running here in New York.
Social Lifestyle: What makes you stand out from your competitors?
nina: One of my greatest strengths is my attention to detail. Over the years, I’ve also worked amongst some of the best stylists in New York, who have helped me with my long-term success. I’m very grateful for this!
Social Lifestyle: What advice would you give to those who want to get into this business?
nina: You must be dedicated and never give up. If you put in the effort and put in the time it will pay off. Love what you do, and you will never work a day in your life!
To make an appointment: (718) 439-4909.
