In the salon world, a name is often more than just what’s on the booking system; it’s a brand in itself.
For some stylists, adopting a professional “salon name” can make all the difference when it comes to standing out, building a clientele and creating a memorable identity. At Rainbow Room International, this practice has become part of the team culture. When two or more stylists share the same name within a salon, one may be given an alternative name to use professionally. It’s a small but effective way to avoid confusion for both clients and the front-of-house team.
“It makes the booking process smoother and helps clients differentiate between stylists,” explains Coco McMahon, Salon Director and Artistic Team Member. “Clients can easily ask for their stylist when they arrive, and it ensures the right appointment every time.”
As one of Rainbow Room International’s most established stylists, Coco knows first-hand how powerful a name can be. She changed her professional name to Coco more than 30 years ago, and it’s a decision that has had a positive impact on her career.
“I wanted a name that people would remember,” says Coco. “Something short, catchy, and full of personality. Looking back, it was one of the best things I ever did for my career. Clients remember the name, and it’s helped me build my clientele quickly and naturally.”
Her experience reflects what many in the industry soon discover: a distinctive salon name can help stylists stand out and make it easier for clients to find and remember them, particularly in the age of social media.
Rainbow Room International’s approach also supports online visibility. With many clients now discovering stylists through social media, having a unique professional name makes it easier to link stylists’ work to their profiles and tag them consistently on salon accounts.
“It helps clients identify a stylist’s work instantly,” says the team. “On our Rainbow Room International social channels, clients often browse tagged images to find inspiration or choose their next stylist. A unique salon name helps them connect the dots.”
While some might question whether using a salon name could feel impersonal, Rainbow Room International believes the opposite is true. “The connection between a client and their stylist comes from care, consistency and trust, not necessarily from the name itself,” says Coco. “Most of my clients have known me as Coco for decades. To them, that’s who I am, and that’s the person they’ve built a relationship with.”
New team members are introduced to the concept when they start, and many embrace the chance to choose or develop a salon name that reflects their personality or style. “It can actually be fun and empowering,” adds Coco. “For some, it gives them the confidence to create their own identity on the salon floor.”
Ultimately, the use of salon names at Rainbow Room International is a small but meaningful part of how the business runs, helping stylists build their own brand while keeping things seamless for clients.
“Our focus has always been on connection and care,” says Coco. “The name is just part of the story; ultimately, it comes down to how you treat your clients, the service you provide and how it makes them feel”