Vassallo: An Interview with Karen Landers of Truvy’s Beauty Spot

Truvy’s Beauty Spot located at 2704 West Oxford Loop (Suite 113) is turning heads in more ways than one. Karen Landers has done an incredible job with her salon. Here’s why…

Karen Landers

HottyToddy.com: Karen, You, more than most, understand the true meaning of customer service and satisfaction. Your thoughts?

Karen Landers: People do business with people they like. We enjoy building relationships with our customers who become our friends.

HottyToddy.com: Now that your business is a growing success story, what have you learned that would be of importance to other entrepreneurs?

Karen Landers: To be flexible. Be prepared. Plan! Hire an accountant and establish a strong banking relationship. It also helps going to the same branch.

HottyToddy.com: You have about as many men as ladies as regular customers. Why so?

Karen Landers: Men are particular. They want to look the same. A lot of guys refer their friends to us because they are pleased with our services.

HottyToddy.com: In today’s society, colored hair is no longer the exception, but the norm. Do men partake as well?

Karen Landers: A few. Throughout society about 10-15 percent of men color their hair which is more common for men in their 40s and 50s.

HottyToddy.com: What is your most popular service aside from the traditional cut?

Karen Landers: Highlights. Everyone wants to be blonde. Partials are more often requested than coloring the full head. Highlights have about a six-week life, but this can vary.

HottyToddy.com: What message can you convey to Oxford permanent residents why they need to visit your shop?

Karen Landers: Convenience. A relaxed atmosphere. Easy to park. We are fair and priced reasonably.

HottyToddy.com: Since you have been in business here in Oxford, what has been your biggest surprise?

Karen Landers: The degree of success attained. This was a leap of faith and a financial risk in the beginning.

HottyToddy.com: How would you answer the following: Today, compared to just five years ago, individuals place a greater emphasis on their appearance. True or false?

Karen Landers: True. Social media is the primary reason. Just the other day, my 10-year-old (Mia) was talking about a person’s looks to me so even at this young age, they are aware of the importance of personal appearance.

HottyToddy.com: For those who are unfamiliar with West Oxford Loop, how do they find you?

Karen Landers: Coming from Highway 6, turn onto Jackson Avenue then left at the first light. From the direction of Walmart, turn right at Chevron.

HottyToddy.com: Many of us are always in a rush. For those who are, what would be a better day to schedule an appointment to avoid a long wait or any wait?

Karen Landers: Mondays. We are open whereas many shops are closed. It’s a quieter, easier day.

HottyToddy.com: Is it true, blondes have more fun?

Karen Landers: No. However, we have many blonde customers. A second choice is chocolate colored hair or a deep rich brown. Also, fun colors are popular.

HottyToddy.com: Let’s talk about highlights for a moment. What percentage of your clients request this service?

Karen Landers: Over half. The majority are college age. Individuals in their 50s and 60s are also very interested in highlights.

Truvy’s has the INDIE brand. (Photo by Merrill Robinson)

HottyToddy.com: Provide one reason why residents need to conduct all of their business needs at home.

Karen Landers: Being busy and the time savings by doing so. Children’s needs are another major reason.

HottyToddy.com: Karen, you have extraordinary beautiful hair. What do you do to enhance the texture and outward look?

Karen Landers: The use of dry shampoo. We cannot keep it on the shelf. It is an aerosol spray. The brand is INDIE which is a line made by Scruples. It is produced in the USA. We also use their color.

Steve Vassallo is a HottyToddy.com contributor. Steve writes on Ole Miss athletics, Oxford business, politics and other subjects. He is an Ole Miss grad and former radio announcer for the basketball team. Currently, Steve is a highly successful leader in the real estate business who lives in Oxford with his wife Rosie. You can contact Steve at sovassallo@gmail.com or call him at 985-852-7745.

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