In the Chair with the Thanx Vibe Tribe: Marissa

Why did you decide to become a stylist?

 I always tell people that I got lucky. This wasn’t a lifelong dream of mine. But while I was in high school I learned about the cosmetology program at BCTC (Berks Career & Technology Center) and thought, “What do you mean I can play with hair instead of going to school all day?” It took a few months, but by the end of the first year of the program I knew I actually wanted to be a stylist and it would be a good career for me.  

When did you join Thanx?

 I started in August 2023 - coming up on 3 years now! It was the summer before my last year of cosmetology school. I wanted some real life experience so I was looking for a salon. I had a friend who was the receptionist at Thanx at the time. She raved, "This place is amazing, Diane is amazing, the people are amazing." I also knew Lilly because she’d been my student teacher in year one. I reached out to see if there were any openings, and there was. Di was amazing, and everyone was so energetic and upbeat. It just worked. 

Why did you choose Thanx instead of a different salon?

Aside from the glowing recommendations I received, once I started I knew right away it would be a great fit. People were very welcoming from my very first week, and I could tell everyone was excited to be at work. The salon is beautiful. I also thought the Wig Boutique was amazing and could tell there was a real passion for it.

What do you like most about working at Thanx?

The people. Not even just ownership wise. Lilly, Molly, Josh and I, we come in here and have so much fun. Molly and I nitpick each other like sisters. It's such a great combination of people.

Thanx also brings in kind, amazing clients. We don't have many issues with mean people. The energy in the salon isn't welcoming to them. The way we call, consult, and email our guests constantly, people end up happy. And if they're not they address it in a kind way so we can work it out and make them happy.

What are your favorite services to offer?

I love creating high maintenance crazy transformations, like when someone comes in dark brunette and leaves bright bright blond. Come to me for foiling or blonding. Extra points if you put color in your hair, especially pink! That gets me going.  

What do you bring to the team?

Energy. A lot of energy! I was very shy at first but I feel like I've bloomed into this loud, happy, motivational person. I'm big on taking care of people and giving them the me time they deserve. I bring a fun best friend hairstylist energy. 

What do you like to do outside of work?

I'm a very do it yourself kind of person. Every appointment I have a new hobby. I went from baking sourdough to crocheting. I recently got into sewing. I’m always finding a new way to keep my hands busy. I’m a person of many skills, but master of none. Once I'm bored with something I'll mix in something new. 

What kind of clients are you looking for?

I relate best to younger guests, from their teens to their thirties. People that want to have fun and chat. I like to feel like we're friends during the appointment. If I mention something I saw on TikTok or Insta I want them to know what's going on so we can talk about influencer drama. I’m high energy, so anyone in my chair should be ready to deal to with me.

Book an Appointment With Marissa Today

If you think Marissa might be the stylist for you, you can book a hair or nail appointment online or over the phone at 610-779-1900. Check out some of her work at @marissas.beautyblog.

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This post was written by Amy Miller, freelance writer and Thanx superfan. You can find out more about her writing services and her personal journey at her blog: A Novelist’s Guide to Rewriting Your Life.