Hair stylist Mark Garrison and his posh New York City Upper East Side salon is simply a cut above the rest! For over twenty years, Garrison has been a revered beauty expert, styling hair for such celebrities as Sandra Bullock, Courtney Love, and many others. His expertise is featured in top beauty and fashion publications, including Vogue, In Style, and Harper’s Bazaar. When entering Garrison’s salon his clientele are often greeted by his three small, short haired, adorable adopted mutts: Balla, Tito and Sting! These pampered pooches have their very own Nanny named Argentina. She picks them up from home, which they share with four cats and two birds, and brings them in to the salon every afternoon.
Animal Fair visited Mark Garrison at his salon to find out the long and short about styling hair with his pets by his side.
AF: Have your dogs inspired any new hair trends at your salon?
MG: Yes, especially color highlights. Tito and Sting inspired amber on dark, and some clients request Balla’s blonde.
AF: How do your dogs greet your clients when they enter the salon?
MG: Together they all get out of their beds and say hello to certain clients in mass. Balla is the salon extrovert and very affectionate. Tito is more reserved and will only take an occasional lap. Sting is a skittish street dog, but once he warms up he’s the biggest lover – he’s part Dachshund.
AF: Where did you get your three charming dogs?
MG: I adopted all three dogs at different times over the past eight years. I got Balla from a janitor who worked at a school across the street from where I live. I rescued Tito from the shelter Aarf and Sting from Claws.
AF: How have your dogs ultimately helped your business?
MG: They bring a homey effect to the salon and create a calming energy and relaxed environment. It’s a nice distraction for my clients; they play and pet my dogs, and often bring in treats. Sometimes I’ll bring out treats and show clients their tricks, like sit, lay down, rollover. The two males Tito and Sting rollover to one side while Balla the female of the three, rolls over to the opposite side!
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