Gila Rut Salon
Happiness and Friendship: Gila Rut’s Journey to 25
Sep 08, 2017
Twenty-five years! Though a quarter century is an impressive chunk of time, it’s gone by in a blink. This milestone anniversary of our flagship location (Hillcrest, San Diego) has us reminiscing about people who’ve been an integral part of our history throughout the years (including Gila Rut’s first-ever guest). We’ll be sharing their memories, perspectives, and stories. As you read about them, you’ll notice a fitting recurring theme—the relationships we’ve formed with our guests and each other, and the happiness they bring. It all hearkens back to our roots and our original intention for Gila Rut: in Hebrew, Gila means ‘happiness’ while Rut means ‘freedom or friendship.’
We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has made this journey with Gila Rut. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or … Read More
Celebrating 25 Years with Gila Rut: Lisa Harris
Sep 05, 2017
Lisa Harris began her career at Gila Rut in 2006, but she has always loved working on her and her friends’ hair, “I’ve always been artistic,” she says. “I love painting, interior design and just creating.”
After moving here when she was 18, she started her career in cosmetology. Later, she moved back to England, where she had to become licensed for the UK. We couldn’t be happier that Lisa’s life brought her back to the U.S. once again. This time, she is here to stay!
What prompted you to work at Gila Rut?
When moving from England to San Diego, I did a lot of research on area salons. I knew I wanted to work for an environmentally responsible company that had a great reputation. I found this in Gila Rut Aveda! Gila Rut upholds a high standard in business, beauty and wellness, but is also committed to team … Read More
Celebrating 25 Years with Gila Rut: Michael Soberanes
Aug 29, 2017
When Michael Sobranes started his career with Gila Rut Salons in 2005, he was so shy he hardly spoke to anyone for a year. Since then, his career has soared. Michael entered the Gila Rut education program, specializing in hair cutting. Over 13 years, Michael has worked his way up from assisting, to Master Designer, Educational Director, Lead of San Diego Fashion Week and Editorial Photo Shoot Director. There is no stopping this creative genius!
What prompted you to work at Gila Rut?
The salon’s reputation. My cousin was a guest and highly recommended Gila Rut. She loved being a customer.
What was your job/career prior to working at Gila Rut?
Various jobs: warehouse manager, retail, web developer.
What defining moment brought you to be a hairdresser?
A hairdresser friend learned about my dream of being a hairdresser, so she pushed me!
How has Gila Rut changed the course of … Read More
Celebrating 25 Years with Gila Rut: Debbie Cheslow
Aug 24, 2017
How did you get started coming to Gila Rut?
A friend recommended Gila Rut in 2002. What made me continue to visit over the years is the customer service and friendliness. So many salons make you feel like you’re not good enough. Everyone here is so welcoming—Gila Rut is like my second home! It’s super fun and makes me feel good. I make sure to visit at least once a month to get my “fix.”
What was your profession when you started coming to Gila Rut? And now?
Then: Helping patients get reimbursed for medical bills as a Senior Project Manager at a Contract Research Organization (CRO) Health Care consultancy. Now: Associate Director at a different organization.
What’s your favorite hobby?
Travel. My favorite place is a toss-up between Paris and Belize. I love anywhere tropical.
How has Gila Rut impacted your life or style?
The stylists at Gila Rut … Read More
Celebrating 25 Years with Gila Rut: Rob Weisgrau
Aug 22, 2017
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. … Read More
