Q: How long have you been involved in the beauty industry, and how did your career journey begin?

A: I've been in the beauty industry for over 25 years. My journey started when I was 16 years old answering phones at a TONI&GUY salon. Being surrounded by creative people sparked something in me, and I quickly realized that hairstyling was the perfect blend of artistry, connection, and problem-solving. That path eventually led me to Los Angeles, where I worked in editorial, celebrity, fashion, and commercial hairstyling before returning home and opening Root Salon.

Q: How long has your salon been in business?

A: Root Salon has been under our ownership for about a year. While the salon itself has been part of the community for more than 15 years, we acquired the business and completely reimagined the brand, culture, and guest experience. This first year has been an exciting chapter of building something that truly reflects our vision and values.

Q: What is the story behind your salon’s name? Does it have any special meaning or story?

A: When they acquired the salon, Traci and Jacqueline considered changing the name but ultimately decided to keep Root. The name resonated deeply with their vision because it reflects grounding, growth, wellness, and the idea that everything starts at the root. It also aligned naturally with their focus on healthy hair, scalp care, and creating a space that feels connected to nature and personal well-being. Keeping the established name also honored the salon's history within the local community while allowing them to bring it into a new chapter.

Q: If you had to describe your salon in three words, what would they be and why?

A: Grounded. Luxurious. Caring.
We believe luxury doesn't have to feel exclusive or intimidating. Our goal is to create an elevated experience that feels warm, welcoming, and accessible. Everything we do is rooted in care, from the way we serve our guests to the way we support our team and approach our craft.

Q: What is one Milbon product you can't live without, and why?

A: The Milbon Moisture Shampoo and Treatment are products I constantly reach for. Living in Arizona, hydration is essential, and these products have completely transformed the way my hair feels and performs. They deliver noticeable results without weighing the hair down, which is why they're often the first products I recommend to both clients and stylists.

Q: What do you love about Milbon?

A: What stands out most is the partnership. From leadership to educators and product developers, the Milbon team genuinely listens to feedback from stylists and salon owners. We've never felt like we were simply being sold products. Instead, we've felt supported, heard, and included in conversations that help shape the future of the brand.

Q: Why did you decide to become a Milbon Concept Salon?

A: Becoming a Concept Salon felt like a natural extension of the salon's values. Root Salon wanted more than just retail products; they wanted a deeper partnership that allowed them to fully understand the philosophy, science, and intention behind the brand. Milbon's focus on scalp care, customization, education, and service closely mirrors the salon's own approach to guest care. For Traci and Jacqueline, becoming a Concept Salon created an opportunity to build the head spa and wellness-focused experience they had envisioned while working with a brand that shares their commitment to craftsmanship and care.

Q: Which Milbon products are the stylists’ favorites in your salon?

A: The stylists at Root Salon love Milbon's versatile styling products. Froth has quickly become a salon favorite because of its ability to create effortless texture and movement. They also frequently reach for Volume Thickening Mist #4 and Satin Texturizing Cream, especially for blowouts and creating lived-in texture across a wide variety of hair types. The versatility of these products allows stylists to customize results while maintaining hair health and beautiful touchable finishes.

Q: Which Milbon products are the guests’ favorites at your salon?

A: Currently, Monochromatic Froth is one of the salon's top-selling products and has developed a strong following among guests. The Repair line is another guest favorite due to its ability to improve hair condition while maintaining softness and manageability. Guests also love Milbon's styling sprays, dry shampoo, and scalp care products, often commenting on both the performance and the luxurious fragrance experience. The salon has found that once guests try the products and experience the results firsthand, they quickly become repeat purchasers.