Dr. Rob Weisgrau was Gila Rut’s very first guest on our very first day of business, which was July 14, 1992. It’s only fitting that he is first in line for our 25 Stories for 25 Years.
Rob is one of the happiest people we have ever met. He brings so much laughter, a bright energy and an amazing sense of humor to everyone he meets.
How did you get started coming to Gila Rut?
I saw an ad in the San Diego Jewish Times, I believe. Dialed the number and was greeted by a receptionist named Carol (Carol Davis, our owner). [Because the salon was brand new], I could have an appointment on any day and at any time that I wanted. If I had called five minutes earlier, I’m not sure the phone would have been in service.
What’s your favorite hobby?
My favorite hobby is life. I love people and love doing things to stay in shape. I run several days a week (although my marathon days are over). I love to hike and get out in nature. I met my wife at the top of Volcan Mountain in Julian and proposed near the top of Mount Etna in Sicily. I love to dance. I weight train. I have been a rower and a fencer. I love live music. I make a mean pizza from scratch and know my way around a barbecue. Oh, and wine. Did I mention wine?
How has Gila Rut impacted your life or style?
Billy Crystal’s old line from SNL—“It is better to look good than to feel good, and you look mah-velous” –is real. Enough said.
What is your favorite part about coming to Gila Rut?
The pampering. Everyone deserves a little pampering now and then.
Do you have a memorable, impactful story to share from past years?
I kept Gila Rut afloat in the early years by buying Tea Tree Shampoo by the gallon (literally)… This was in the beginning of the computer era (I’m dating us), and [the salon] didn’t have a computerized customer service system to know what I had bought on each previous visit. I had enough shampoo for years.
How would you sum up Gila Rut celebrating 25 years in business?
Gila Rut exemplifies all that is right about a customer service business. Not only happy clients, but also happy employees. I have had the honor to be the client of many exceptional Gila Rut employees. As they have inevitably moved on to accomplish their personal goals, I have been happy for them and sad for me. In every instance, there has been someone on the Gila Rut bench to more than adequately take their place. And voila, always a new friendship for me! Twenty-five years is quite an accomplishment – Wow! I have been there to see Gila Rut succeed, grow and expand times three. That’s a lot of haircuts. And the success couldn’t happen to nicer human beings. Glad to have been along for the ride!
