10 Questions for Salon Amnesia Owner Jennessa Van Kregten

Meet the Owner is a weekly column that features business owners in the town of Los Gatos. Los Gatos Patch asks each owner the same 10 questions every week so the community can get to know the people behind our local businesses.

As a child, Jennessa Van Kregten wanted to be, well, just about everything. She’s settled on being the owner of the beautiful and classy . And though she’s somewhat new to Los Gatos, her outgoing personality and passion for hair care and design is a perfect fit for what she describes as a very “fun town.”

Los Gatos Patch: What did you dream of being as a kid?

Jennessa Van Kregten: When I was a kid, I dreamed of being in every possible career. I had a big imagination and wanted to experience it all. A doctor, a lawyer, home decorator, counselor, teacher and even owning my own doughnut shop was some of my big dreams when I was a kid.

Patch: How does your personality play into your business?

Van Kregten: I have a very social personality and I love that every day I have clients from all parts of the community. I get to hear all about what they do and how all their different jobs, no matter what they do ... they all play such a huge part in our community. That is so great to experience every day.

Patch: At what moment did you decide to open a business?

Van Kregten: Since the moment I started doing hair, I knew that I wanted to be a salon owner. So I saved and kept an eye out for the perfect opportunity. When the opportunity presented itself, everything fell right into place ... the stars were aligned, and I knew it was the right moment to follow my dreams.

Patch: What inspired you?

Van Kregten: My parents and family inspired me the most. My parents were both small business owners, and from childhood, I witnessed all the hard work and efforts they put into making their business successful. I also witnessed their pride and enjoyment of owning a small business and being a part of their community. I am lucky to have a family that extends beyond just my parents that are very encouraging and supportive of me and my dreams. 

Patch: Describe the biggest challenge of owning a business in the town of Los Gatos?

Van Kregten: The biggest challenge is that Los Gatos is a new place of business for me. I've worked in Willow Glen, Palo Alto and Santa Cruz. I've always loved visiting Los Gatos, and I'm enjoying the challenge of learning and getting to know the town.

Patch: Describe the best thing about owning a business in the town of Los Gatos?

Van Kregten: The best thing about owning a business in Los Gatos is that it is such a FUN town. There are so many wonderful stores, restaurants, people and other places to visit. I love working here, and my clients love being here, whether they live in Los Gatos or just come to visit.

Patch: What is one thing you would never change about your business?

Van Kregten: I love being a salon. I would never change that. My passion is doing hair and also creating an experience for my clients. It is rewarding to create something someone else can enjoy.

Patch: What is your business' greatest asset?

Van Kregten: Our greatest assets are our team of stylists and ambiance that we provide. Our stylists are well educated and creative and also have wonderful personalities that make anyone's visit to our salon enjoyable.

Patch: What is your favorite spot in town?

Van Kregten: Favorite spot so far is Enoteca de Estoria and Double D's. 

Patch: What's one thing the community should know about you?

Van Kregten: The one thing the community should know about me is that I am so proud of my salon and all of our team members. I ... we love what we do and want our clients to love their experience here.