Interview with Pam Cain, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: When I was 15, I went to work after school at Armin Coiffure in Westland Mall as a cleanup girl. I learned about mixing color and hairstyling techniques by watching the hairdressers. I went to beauty school at the age of 18 and graduated at 19. After graduation, I went back to work for Armin as a hairdresser. Shortly afterward, I purchased my first salon in the late 1970s.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: We still do roller sets and perms along with the usual coloring, cutting, nails, pedicures and waxing. We continue to learn new coloring and hair cutting techniques. We are a family-oriented salon and enjoy hearing about our customers’ life journeys and stories. Each client is very important and special to each of us. They are what make our business successful and we are thankful for that. We always have snacks for our customers and have a great Christmas spread. And, of course, we love the Denver Broncos.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: The lasting friendships with our customers, as well as sharing our stories and struggles with each other. Also, making people feel good about themselves and pampering people in this changing, stressful world.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Keeping up with the changes in the beauty industry and the business world. Change and new ideas are difficult to embrace, but necessary for growth, especially when it comes to new products, techniques and technology. It is hard to lose longtime clients, especially when they have become like family to us.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: Three out of the four of us have been shop owners in the Lakewood area. We all have more than 35 years of experience as hairdressers and nail techs. I purchased my first salon when I was only 20. And the second salon I worked at in Squire Plaza is now where I own my salon.
Profile
Business: Pam’s Hair & Nail Designs
Address: 8541 W. Colfax Ave., Lakewood
Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday
Founded: 1975
Contact: 303-232-2887
Employees: 4
