Jack of All Fades co-owner Christina Wrobel is proud to have built a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere where everyone is treated like family.
"We're a place where people can come in, feel comfortable, be themselves and leave feeling their absolute best."
Her team is passionate about what they do, Wrobel says, but "what means the most to us are the relationships we've built with our clients and our community. Every haircut, style, conversation is part of what makes our salon special."
Wrobel, Julie Lozynski and Shannon Slattery came up with the catchy name. They deliver precision-sharp haircuts for kids and adults along with beard-care.
"Being recognized as Southland's Best is truly an honor, and we couldn't have done it without the amazing people who continue to support us, trust us, recommend us and sit in our chairs."
Always on the cutting-edge, Jack of All Fades avoids a website or phone number and uses a booking app.
People are craving genuine self-care. “And it can’t be replaced by AI,” says Amy Ruff, who owns Capri Beauty College with her brother, Tom Seil.
At Capri, students including Hillary Crandall receive hands-on training from the classroom to the salon and spa. “I chose Capri for its great reputation, wonderful teachers and quality of education," Crandall says. “Color services are my favorite, and I already have a salon position lined up for after graduation.”
Capri offers the community a full student salon and spa experience, featuring birthday parties, monthly specials and gift certificates. “Preparing students for the career of their dreams is the best part of Capri,” Ruff says.
The more stressful life gets, the greater the need for wellness.
“One of the reasons I wanted to buy the salon was because if you’re having a bad day you can go there and everything’s OK,” says Mary Lynn Fleck, the receptionist who bought Nicole Richards Salon and Spa from the original owner two years ago. She notes that her spa is a supportive environment. Even employees drop in on their days off to hang out.
“I wanted to make sure we were involved in the community,” Fleck says.
Through The Bridge Teen Center in Orland Park, the salon offers after-school programs for hair, nail and skin care. Fighting Pretty is its event for female cancer patients to reclaim their glow. “Last year we had 10 women come in and choose services: A haircut, nails, mini-facials, manicures and pedicures.”
In addition to hair and nails, Nicole Richards Salon offers lash services, spray tanning and massage.
Jeffrey LaMorte Salon & Day Spa boasts locations in Orland Park, Frankfort, Lemont and Chicago.
“I hope it’s because they see not only our commitment to the industry, but we also have a commitment to the community,” general manager Kelly Glester says of the salon taking Southland's Best honors. “Jeff raised two daughters in Frankfort, and I have two sons I’m currently raising in Frankfort, so we have pretty strong ties in the community itself.“We also make sure that were a part of the communities in Orland Park and Lemont. We make sure we are a part of those park districts and villages sponsoring events and showing up wherever we can to help out.”
Glester adds that connections with people in New York and California help keep up with the ever-changing trends and styles.
“We have a passion — we love it,” she says. “We have members of the team who absolutely love hair and fashion and makeup. Whenever these trends are developing, they are on top of it.”
Jolie Nail & Spa, which opened in Mokena in 2022, specializes in everything from manicures and pedicures to “stunning nail designs.”
“Whether you’re visiting for a simple polish change or an intricate design, our talented team is dedicated to delivering beautiful, lasting results tailored to your unique style,” its website says.
Jolie also offers waxing services and has services available for children 10 and younger.
Krystal Wilson has more than 20 years of massage experience so she knows what she’s doing.
“Krystal’s approach combines the best of therapeutic bodywork and integrative modalities,” the company’s website says. “She’s trained in Thai massage, prenatal, cupping therapy, hot stone and aromatherapy, using them individually or in combination to deliver powerful, personal results.
“Each treatment is guided by the belief that no two bodies are the same — and healing should reflect that.”
The business started in 2017 in Frankfort and eventually made a move to Mokena.
Chakika Williams runs the show at SkyRose and says clients come to her business for aesthetic treatments.
“We wanted to create an experience where our clients feel seen, heard, cared for and confident in the skin they’re in,” Williams says.
“SkyRose has grown because our community has trusted us — not only with their appearance, but with their confidence and wellness,” Williams says. “To have the Southland community recognize us as the Best Medical Spa is an honor I don’t take lightly.
“As a locally owned business, every appointment, referral, review and vote matters.This award belongs just as much to our amazing clients and team as it does to me. They have helped turn a vision into a brand that continues to grow and make an impact.”
“When you want the best, come get your glow from the best.” That's the motto of Dream Mist Spray owner Suzie Christofanelli.
“At Dream Mist Spray, I’m not just giving you a tan. I’m creating a customized, flawless glow designed specifically for you,” she says. “From the perfect shade match to the little details that make your tan look natural, even and beautiful, I take pride in making every appointment an experience.”
“At Tranquil Soul Yoga & Wellness Studio, we welcome you to be a part of our community,” owner Kim Watson says. “We welcome you to explore the art of movement, to experience the wisdom of stillness and to enjoy the beauty of human connection.”
She says that the studio offers conventional and non-conventional approaches and daily classes include yoga, Pilates reformer, meditation and relaxation practices such as Reiki energy work, travel retreats and workshop events.
