In 1973, Best & Co. department store, a landmark building on Northern Boulevard, sat empty. Michael Mazzei reimagined the space as a “department store of beauty” and set out to make it a one-stop shop for every beauty need. This vision became nuBest Salon and Spa. The business is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
Mazzei is one of the most beloved and well-respected individuals in the professional hair care industry. His vision of beauty and avantgarde approach to style has inspired stylists from all over the world. He has been instrumental in defining modern hair for men and women. Mazzei and his collaborator Leland Hirsch also developed ARTEC worldwide, a global hair care brand that was purchased by L’Oréal in 2002.
Michael Mazzei’s son, Jamie Mazzei, grew up in the salon watching his father at his craft. “I was born here pretty much. nuBest was created when I was four years old. I spent my entire life in the salon. My father, I consider him a creative genius, he had a vision unlike anybody else and was a talent in the industry. Second to none. He came to the U.S. with an eighth-grade education and lives the American dream unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. And I’m truly proud to be his son.”
Jamie isn’t the only family member to join the staff. Michael Mazzei’s nephews Vincent and Christian Mazzei have also played an integral part in its continued success. In addition, Marco Mazzei, Jamie’s son, has recently joined the nuBest team after completing his training and obtaining his license while still in high school.
Part of what makes nuBest so special is that they have developed their own training system that keeps the level of service consistent, no matter which staff member is providing it. “We have a very specific way of cutting and coloring hair here. So the whole idea was to create a system that the entire salon could do, along with their own creativity. But the idea is that if you came into the salon, and your operator wasn’t here that day, you could go to someone else and be confident that you would get the same thing. We tried to drive across (to the staff) consistency, I think that’s really been a big part of our success,” said Mazzei.
Long time clients give insight into what keeps them coming back year after year:
“The incredible team at nuBest has been providing my family and I with the best salon services for over a decade. The entire experience is always top notch. The beautiful seasonal decor always creates a relaxing environment and the multi-talented stylists never disappoint. They are beyond friendly, skilled and always eager to create looks that leave you feeling fresh and fabulous. nuBest is truly the best!” —Diana Minuta (nuBest client)
“Three generations of our family have enjoyed the beauty of nuBest that goes far beyond the services they provide. For decades they have become a part of the fabric of our lives…Beautifying us in our special moments and lifting us up in our harder times. We feel honored to be part of the nuBest family! Happy 50th Anniversary!” —The Minieri and Cartolano Families
“What can I say about nuBest and the nuBest team? Always ahead of the times! The best caring and accommodating team. I’ve been a client for 50 years! My children have been clients as well! Congratulations on your milestone anniversary!” —Joanne Kaye (nuBest client)