Gila Rut Salon

Viviana Ley has been a client of Gila Rut since 2002. During these years, not only has her hairstyle evolved but so has her relationship with her stylists. She has shared stories of her family, professional goals, social and love life with us at Gila Rut. It is a pleasure to be a part of her life and to have the joy of seeing her every time she visits San Diego now that her professional career has taken her to New York.

What is your relationship with Gila Rut?
My relationship with Gila Rut is like no other. When I started going to the salon, it was a small room in Hillcrest, and I was graduating eighth grade. Now I live in New York. Despite having so many amazing salons here, I remain true to Gila Rut. I make an appointment every time I go to San Diego. They will … Read More

Elida is talented, big-hearted and hardworking. She’s blossomed since she began working at Gila Rut in 2005. When she started, she was a young girl full of dreams, and now she’s a woman achieving big things. She’s surrounded by love and support from her husband and three sons. Her big heart and unique humor make her a favorite among our team. As an educational director, Elida’s commitment to our team’s growth has been essential to our success. We’re thrilled to be celebrating 25 years and grateful she’s been along for the ride for 13 of them. Fun fact: Her talent expands beyond hair and into the kitchen, and she showers us with delicious treats.

What prompted you to work at Gila Rut?
I knew it was the place for me when I walked in. Everyone was so nice and welcoming. I loved the idea of specializing in hair color and … Read More

Michael P. Hart-Abshire, a.k.a MPH! He is one of our amazing managers and has been a part of our team for over 10 years! He is a big influence, supporter, cheerleader and contributor to our culture. His warm smile and inviting energy makes him a true pleasure to be around. He is talented in more than one area, but one of our favorite areas is his high skill in makeup artistry. Paws up!

What prompted you to work at Gila Rut?
I met Keri (the owner) when I first moved to San Diego and knew of the great reputation she/Gila Rut had in the industry and the Aveda world.

What was your job/career prior to working at Gila Rut?
Prior to Gila Rut, I was a Team Leader for Aveda here in San Diego.

What was your defining moment that brought you to be a hairdresser/manager?
My defining moment as … Read More

How did you get started coming to Gila Rut?
A co-worker who also had curly hair recommended Keri. That was about two weeks after I moved to San Diego in 1988. Keri cut (and in the early days, colored) my hair at two other salons until she and Carol started Gila Rut. (It’s important to note that in 1988, Keri was 12, I was 18, and Carol was about 30.)

What was your profession when you started coming to Gila Rut? What is it now?
Financial consultant. Now retired.

What’s your favorite hobby?
Knitting.

How has Gila Rut impacted your life or style?
It’s provided me a safe place to ask questions and step out of my comfort zone a little bit.

What is your favorite part about coming to Gila Rut?
Besides knowing that I’ll leave looking much better than when I came in, my favorite part of going … Read More

How did you get started coming to Gila Rut?
When I moved to San Diego in 2002, I asked my very good friend, the lovely Linda Long, where she got her hair done. I always loved the way her hair looked.

What was your profession when you started coming to Gila Rut? What is it now?
I was the Director of Forward Planning for KB Home. Now I have my own consulting business and two wonderful partners. We do a lot of work for KB Home and other builders in southern California.

What’s your favorite hobby?
I love art. Lately, I’ve been working in encaustics.

How has Gila Rut impacted your life or style?
It’s provided me a safe place to ask questions and step out of my comfort zone a little bit.

What is your favorite part about coming to Gila Rut?
It’s the relationships that I’ve formed. It’s … Read More