MJ's Hair Lounge, Cornelius

With its relaxing atmosphere, Michael Jenkins's workspace would probably look different today if not for his career change. "I actually started accounting before [styling] and totally hated it," he says. "I didn't like looking at numbers."

So in 2001, Michael made a "major switch" and embarked on a hairstyling adventure. These days he transforms hair with the aid of Keune Haircosmetics colors—which he picks for their vibrancy—and Neuma styling products.

Although Michael loves "fun, funky styles" and bold colors, he makes sure to listen carefully to his clients' desires. "I always do a consultation with the client, no matter if they've been with me 10 years or if they're new," he says. He offers them water to sip when they come in and lavishes scalps with a massage as he shampoos their hair. Longe music keeps the atmosphere tranquil as he adds texture to looks with highlights, banishes frizz with keratin treatments, and politely asks split ends to jump ship.