Today we’d like to introduce you to Angela Iaquinto.
Hi Angela , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
How I Started and Where I Am Today
The days before hair…
Before I ever picked up a color brush or pair of shears, I worked in admin for a property management company. I sat behind a desk, bored and unfulfilled. My background had always been in the service industry, so connecting with people came naturally—but I wasn’t living in my passion.
Becoming a hairstylist was never part of the plan. One day, on a whim, I enrolled at the Aveda Institute. From the start, it felt right. The craft came easily, and more importantly, I found joy in connecting with people through beauty.
The early years
After graduating, I considered moving to Arizona, but I quickly realized it wasn’t my vibe—I needed to be near the water. So I stayed in my hometown of Minnesota and assisted at an Aveda salon for three years before following a new adventure.
On another whim, I moved to Florida with a friend who was relocating. New state, new chapter. I stayed within the Aveda network, working at a few different commission-based salons in Central Florida for about five years.
Taking the leap
Eventually, I jumped into studio ownership. Truthfully, I never wanted to own a salon. But I couldn’t find the right environment for me, so I decided to create it. At the time, I was in debt “up to my eyeballs” (lol), but I knew I had to try.
That studio made me realize something important: I loved a team-based salon atmosphere. I eventually opened my first storefront—a cute four-chair salon called The Room. It was adorable, but after three years I knew it still wasn’t the right fit.
Finding the vision
I moved back into a studio near home. This time, I got serious about planning. I knew studio life wasn’t for me long-term, but it gave me space to envision exactly what I wanted: an end unit, wrap-around windows, mature landscaping, and absolutely not in a strip mall.
After two years of searching—I finally found it.
Bohemy Salon was born.
I opened Bohemy during a time when many were closing, but I was busier than ever. I worked seven days a week to get it off the ground. I started with one part-time employee, tested out a hybrid model (half rental, half commission), and quickly realized commission was the right direction for me.
My mission today
Bohemy has become more than I ever imagined. It’s not just a salon—it’s a space built on creativity, growth, and genuine connection. My mission is to create a team-based salon where stylists feel supported, inspired, and empowered to succeed.
It hasn’t been easy. I’ve cried, been lied to, and learned hard lessons. But through it all, I’ve stayed willing to pivot, to shake the tree, and to see what falls next.
I was never a planner before—but now, I am. And every twist, turn, and challenge has led me here.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The rough ride
Here’s the truth: none of this has been smooth sailing.
I signed a bad lease and had 45 days to move.
I tried a partnership that wasn’t a great fit.
I hired wrong (more than once).
I wasted a ton of money along the way.
And of course, I still don’t have it all figured out—I’m learning every single day.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Hi, I’m Angela owner of Bohemy Salon in Lake Mary, FL. I’ve been doing hair for over 15 years, and specialize in blonding, lived-in color, cutting, Brazilian Blowouts, IBE® extensions. I’m IBE® Masters Certified and love creating effortless, natural results that grow out beautifully. The industry found me, and the craft came easy — but what keeps me going is the reward of seeing transformations and mentoring others. I’m passionate about creating a salon environment where stylists can thrive and clients feel at home. Outside the salon, I’m usually at a concert, traveling with my husband.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
What makes me successful:
Staying open to opportunities and new perspectives
Taking risks at the right time, not just any time
Having self-awareness and confidence in my strengths
Knowing when to pivot, adapt, and move forward
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bohemysalon.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bohemysalon/
- Facebook: Bohemy Salon
Image Credits
Photos- Carissa Josette
