Berlin's DiDomenico Honored by HBJ

Gianni DiDomenico was honored Monday night at the Hartford Business Journal 40 under 40 Gala at the Connecticut Convention Center.

DiDomenico, who lives in Berlin, owns Sculptures Salons in Newington, Plainville and Southington and has grown them into some of the largest and most successful in the state.

The 40 Under Forty Awards recognize outstanding young professionals in the Greater Hartford area that are excelling in their industries through their leadership roles. They are driven by success, motivated by challenges and are role models for their peers.

These individuals are part of an outstanding class of upcoming business leaders and share a commitment to business success, personal growth and community involvement.

Below is DiDomenico's bio:

AGE: 36
TITLE: Co-owner and Master Stylist
COMPANY NAME: Sculptures Salons
COMPANY'S LOCATION: Newington, Plainville, Southington
RESIDENCE: Berlin

What do you do? As a Master Stylist with 20+ years of experience, I design tailored looks that are not only cohesive with my client's outward appearance but are representative of their personality as well. Additionally, as a Co-owner, I ensure that my vision for our salon is being upheld not only through the high-end look of our three locations but also in the quality of work my 46 stylists produce and the overall positive experience that customers have when they receive services here.

What do you want to be doing in 10 years? I went from working alongside my late father in his salon, to training and competing in Europe. Soon after, I became a Hair World Olympic gold medalist so it's easy to tell that I have always been driven to excel. Today and ten years from now I want Sculptures to be the salon people go to for the latest services and techniques. In our future, I can also see opening new salons in some very exciting locations. Another goal of mine is to develop and launch a line of Sculptures hair products.

What is your biggest strength? In an industry driven by customer service and satisfaction, being a people person has proven to be a tremendous asset. I have a great rapport with my clients. That, along with my international training, is what sets me apart. I value the relationship I have with my clients and enjoy the interaction and in many cases seeing the transformation that often happens when they leave my chair.

Where do you go for new ideas? Europe is always at the forefront of the beauty industry so I follow those trends closely and then put my own interpretation on the latest styles. Sculptures is also consistently providing education from industry leaders on the latest styles and techniques for myself and my entire staff.

What is the best advice you received? My greatest advice came from my late father who as a hairstylist himself, always encouraged me to “stay focused, be consistent” and probably his best advice; “make sure your clients leave your chair happy and beautiful.”

What service or charitable cause has your attention? Unfortunately, I have had several clients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and saw firsthand how debilitating this disease can be. I wanted to do something in their honor, so it only seemed natural to collaborate with the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter on a number of fundraising events including the Newington salon's anniversary celebration. We also lend our support to the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life by participating in the walk as well as with fundraising efforts such as cut-a-thons. One of our very dear staff members lost her battle with cancer earlier this year so this hits close to home.