This small business Saturday I need to give love to Julio Shampoolio. I first met him at U Studio Yoga (another Small Biz Saturday must!) when I was first learning yoga. As I was struggling with holding my arms up in warrior poses, for what seemed like an eternity, I use to zone out on his tattoos for entertainment. Over time I found out he styled some of my friends and he taught at a beauty school. When my hair dresser moved out of town I gave him a shot. Before the first snip went down I fell in love with the old skool rap jams blasting in his studio as he skateboarded from chair to chair. I’ve been seeing him ever since. Earlier this year he openedASESalon (A Shampoolio Experience) and launched his own Shampoolio product line. All so cool I was inspired to spread the word in honor of small biz Saturday.
Julio grew up inSan Fernando Valleywith “eccentric gypsy parents” and didn’t always fit in. He struggled with being Latino, having a name like Julio, but also having pale skin. After awhile he hit his stride, grew into his name, and the organic sugar free lifestyle that influenced his Shampoolio line. Julio says “Chemists have all the fun but as a hairdresser I know best. I wanted to give the power back to the stylist. My products are all handcrafted from my Mom’s hippie recipes. She was way ahead of her time.” Day Two is his most popular Shampoolio Product. “It gives you that great day after look when your hair is a little dirtier, separated, and beachy.” Perfect for any and all hipsters.
You can pick up products on line at ASEsalon.com or visit his shop at 4312 Melrosein theEast Melrosearea. It’s conveniently located near Scoops (best Ice Cream in LA) and across the street from The Ukranian Culture Center which housed Arcade Fire’s secret concert in 2011. Julio picked the area for his new salon because he felt it was a “Very progressiveNew Amsterdam. Full of Mom & Pop shops, coffee houses, dispensaries, and craft beer. We’re the missing beauty link. After being dormant for 3 decades the block is hot!”
Speed Round of questions:
Julie: Favorite thing aboutL.A.
Julio: Best blondes, best curls, and the longest beauty hair mixed with the dark, edgy, eastside gutter chic. We have it all here. You no longer have to travel toParis,New York, orBerlin. It all happens right here the epicenter fashion earthquake!
Julie: Advice for upcoming hair stylists or small business owners?
Julio: Hardwork and passion are a must. They may have more talent but they can never out work you.
