River City Six – John Mangiameli
Meet John Mangiameli, owner of Creative Hair Design Salon & Spa (creativehairdesign.com).
Tell us a little about your business.
I started Creative Hair Design in 1982. At that time, we had three people on staff. Now, we have 93 dedicated, talented, hand-picked specialists. We’ve grown from a 1,200-square-foot space to a 15,000-square-foot luxurious salon and spa, offering hair, nail, esthetic, and massage services.
How did you get started in the business?
I worked for Claude’s Beautorium here in Omaha for five years until I decided to open my own salon. The owner, Claude Smith, has been the best mentor and friend in my life. He taught me the business, and I am forever grateful for his guidance.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Striving to keep my employees happy and fulfilled at work. It is my mission to help everyone on my team reach their full potential. This is also a very rewarding process.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Watching my employees succeed. There are many of them who have been with me since they were kids just getting started in their careers as a stylist.
Tell us a little about your family.
My wife and I have been married for 40 years. We have three kids. My oldest daughter is a mechanical engineer and yoga instructor, my second oldest daughter is a manager at Creative Hair Design, and my youngest son has his own landscaping business.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
My son and I enjoy racing cars, and I like snow skiing. I also do photography on the side, mostly wildlife and landscapes.
What is the most unique thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I am a big fan of Tony Robbins. He’s a well-known author and life coach. At one of his seminars, I walked barefoot through a pile of hot coals and my feet didn’t get burned. It really is all about the power of your mind!
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
To be successful, you have to be open to new ideas and accept change. To be successful, you have to do things that unsuccessful people don’t do.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Honest.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
I would like to further master my photography skills.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
Anything that involves helping kids!
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
Unleash the Power Within: Personal Coaching to Transform Your Life by Tony Robbins.
What is your favorite TV show?
Big Bang Theory.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Nicola’s Italian Wine & Faire in the Old Market. It’s locally owned and the food is delicious!
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Warren Buffett.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Phone: (402) 330-5660; Email: info@creativehairdesign.com; Website: creativehairdesign.com.