Tampa Photography Blog

It may seem silly to thank my hair stylist but most women (and some men) get it. When you find a good one, you don’t want them to move out of state or change careers or cut their hours. We are selfish when it comes to our hair and that’s ok.

I have been going to Salon II in Carrollwood (Tampa) for 15 years. The owner, Michael Thomassy, is a dear friend of the family and has cut my mother’s hair for almost 30 years. I started going to Michael and then realized he is a popular man and at the time, I couldn’t schedule anything—I was a teenager and way too important to make appointments months in advance!

Then stylist Stefanie Leaver arrived on the scene.

I clicked with her from day one. She is smart, sassy, fun and most of all, she listens to what her client wants.  What a concept! I have been through perms, cuts, blond hair, red hair, highlights, lowlights, razored edges, bobs, and layered looks. And even though some of those are no longer in style now, I always left the salon feeling gorgeous.

Even when I moved to Louisiana for four years, I planned my trips home to Tampa always making sure I had an appointment at Salon II.

Stefanie is also honest, which I appreciate. If I bring in a photo of Carrie Underwood and say, “I want hair like hers.” Stefanie will kindly tell me I can’t have it. She’s doesn’t give you false hope but she also figures out what would look good on you, not Carrie Underwood.

So, I sit down in her chair about every six to nine months and say, “I’m bored with this look.” Instead of smacking me, she simply finds a new style to give me a fresh look and make me happy.

In addition to the wonderful owner and my favorite stylist, there are several others stylists to choose from, two talented manicure technicians and a receptionist with a wicked sense of humor.

If you’re sick of snooty salons where you don’t quite feel at home and want a contemporary place you can count on for years to come, try out Salon II. You won’t regret it.

Michael Thomassy Salon II, 813.968.6977