Celebrating 50 years in cosmetology

In November, Sharyn Larson celebrated 50 years as a licensed cosmetologist. Her customers would call her a beauty artist – not just a hairdresser.

Larson started her training during her junior year at Poland High School through Victor George Beauty Academy, working summers and weekends to get her training and hours. Just five months after graduating from high school in November 1965, she became a licensed cosmetologist.

Her first job was with Victor George Beauty Salon in Boardman. She had worked there for about three years when George sold the salon and spent the next nine years working for Eve Beradino at Eve’s Beauty Salon, also in Boardman.

In September 1981, she opened her own salon, Sharyns with a Y, in Poland Town One Square. She was an entrepreneurial salon owner in those days, introducing a dedicated nail artist, the latest make-up and skin care trends, and hosted a hair Cut-A-Thon to raise money for the then Tod’s Children’s Hospital. Also, as a tribute to her mentor and first boss, Victor George, she employed his grandaughter, Kelly, in her salon.

In July 1999, Larson’s salon had a devastating fire that destroyed it. That did not stop the commitment of this dedicated hair professional. She went on to be employed by Tom Chiarnello, a leading salon owner in the area at his Casal’s Aveda Salon. Recognizing her extraordinary understanding of the profession, hair and make up, he placed her at the Aveda School in Austintown to teach estieology. Larson taught in this program for four years.

Larson said she loves working with the aspiring hair designers and mentoring the new professionals at her work. She is now working as the Aveda advisor for the Casal’s Salon in Canfield.

Continuing her commitment to the profession, Larson provides outstanding customer service, mentorship to developing designers and brings beauty to every person’s life that she touches.