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I recently told my therapist that I can’t push through pain or illness anymore. Her response? “It’s about damn time.” For so many of us, living in fight-or-flight isn’t a phase—it’s a lifetime setting. For me, it feels almost primal, like showing pain or illness is a sign of weakness. Over the summer, one of the ER physician’s told me I was “very stoic” while rating my pain an 8 out of 10. That stoicism? Learned behavior. Neither good nor bad—just learned. We wear masks our entire lives. Fake it till you make it. This past year, I learned that I can’t do that anymore. And strangely, that realization has been both humbling and freeing. I used to pride myself on showing up no matter what. I once did an updo on a bride the morning of my grandmother’s memorial service. That wasn’t resilience—it was performance. And I was very good at it. Now, when my health goes sideways, my body shuts down. At first, that scared me. But after 44 years of pushing through everything, it actually makes sense. Bodies keep the score—even when we pretend not to. If you haven’t read that book…take this as your sign. I recently read that we now consume in a single day the amount of news we were once meant to absorb in a lifetime. Our nervous systems don’t know the difference between witnessing trauma and living it. Our bodies respond to what’s happening in our country and the world as if it’s happening directly to us. Stack that on top of personal stress or illness, and eventually the body says,   I’m done. I’m sharing this as permission—to wave the red flag, to rest, to say no.To give yourself the same grace you’d give a friend without hesitation. New year. Same me. Just listening better now.

When you sign up to become a fur-baby parent, you also—whether you realize it or not—sign up for the hardest part: the goodbye. I had been a self-proclaimed cat lady since the age of 25 and was perfectly content with their oddly endearing ways. But when I bought my house four years ago, something shifted. A quiet knowing told me I was ready for a dog. I had a very specific list. She had to have hair, not fur (so she could come to the salon). She had to be good with people (again—salon life). She had to be okay with cats. I didn’t want a puppy. And I wanted to rescue. I never judge anyone who goes through a breeder. I’ve only ever adopted—that’s my  journey—and as you’ll read, it came with many bumps (and not the kind on her body). I searched daily, trusting that the right dog would appear when it was meant to be. And then, in March of 2022, I saw her . A picture that stopped me in my tracks. Her name was Casey—a southern belle from Georgia.I spoke with her foster mom and the rescue league, and before I knew it, Casey was on a van headed to Connecticut. Casey's Pet Finder image...I died. The minute I saw her, I teared up. I could feel her sweetness immediately. From that moment on, we were attached at the hip. My friend Jim even joked, “Meghan’s never going to date again after finding Casey,” and honestly… he wasn’t wrong. She filled a void in my life that I didn’t even know existed. She was the gentlest, sweetest soul. We were all shocked when her DNA results came back: half Basset Hound, half Miniature Schnauzer. She was my little Bowser. Casey came to me under the guise of being four years old—but she was likely closer to ten and very overweight. Her previous owners hadn’t taken great care of her, and she barely knew how to walk on a leash. But I didn’t give up. It didn’t happen overnight, but we got her down 25 pounds. And don’t let that fool you—this girl was done  after a five-minute walk. Casey with the salon's Tibetan bowl sound machine, lol. Within our first six months together, Casey was diagnosed with kidney disease, likely due to her past care. We managed it with prescription food and medications. This year, we added Cushing’s disease to the list, and unfortunately, she didn’t tolerate the medication well. That was the beginning of the decline. Two weeks ago, I brought her to the emergency vet, where they found metastatic cancer around her lungs. Somehow, she bounced back—and we brought her home, knowing the end was near. Last week, we returned again, and she was treated for an upper respiratory infection. Once more, she rallied. Until yesterday morning. She wouldn’t even take her treats. I looked at her and said, “Okay, baby. It’s time.” This week durning Casey's steam bath treatments for her breathing. I did EVERTHING for this girl. I have nothing but incredible things to say about Angel West. They became our second home throughout December and treated us with so much kindness and compassion. One of the nurses even came into our room just to hug Casey—that’s how special she was. One of my favorite sayings in the animal world is, “Who saved who?”  Because Casey changed my life. She kept me from making bad decisions. She softened my loneliness. And when I was diagnosed with achalasia this year, she never left my side. I truly believe she held on until she knew I was going to be okay. I used to whisper to her when I was sick, Please don’t leave me yet.  Even our repeated emergency vet visits felt like her way of preparing me. She wasn’t just my dog—she was family to my sister, my friends, my clients, and my loved ones. She was the only  animal invited to Thanksgiving. She was that good. Now, as I sit by the fireplace next to a confused Milo, all I can say is that my heart feels shattered. This pain is indescribable, and I know it will take time to heal. I miss the click-clack of her paws on the floor. I miss her snoring more than I can put into words. She was, and will always be, my baby. 🤍

They’re supposed to be the most magical weeks of the year—yet they’re layered with stress, loss, expectations, performative pressure, and the kind of childhood memories that still hit you in the throat decades later. Believe me… I get it.My mom once threw our Christmas tree down the basement stairs, and I did  receive an actual letter from Santa warning that if I didn’t “tighten it up,” he was taking my presents back. Iconic.So no—my holiday memories weren’t perfect. But I also remember the magic: the joy, the excitement, the TV specials, the parties, the whole month of dreamy build-up. That electric moment of wondering what waited downstairs…and then the slow, painful death of waiting for my dad to make his coffee before we could start unwrapping. If I’m being honest, I think the pandemic changed how we move through the holiday season. I see it every day behind the chair.Clients go to fewer parties. They host less. They feel “off.”There’s this quiet pressure to feel light and bright , but with the world being heavy, the economy being scary, and life continuing to life… it’s hard to fake joy you don’t feel. This year, I actually felt inspired to host a Christmas party for the first time in forever—because I can feel the collective sadness, the loneliness, the exhaustion. And if I’m feeling it, and my clients are feeling it, I know I’m not alone. So here’s your permission slip:Feel exactly how you’re feeling. No holiday perfection required. And maybe—just maybe—we can all step out of our shells a bit more this season. Because I truly believe community helps us heal. Being together matters. Small moments of connection matter. Wishing you softness, warmth, and whatever version of the holidays feels true to you. Xo,Meghan

How modern retail fits perfectly with lived-in color, low-maintenance hair, and the stylist-first movement. Affiliate links are one of the very few  good things that came out of the pandemic — and honestly, they’ve been a complete game-changer for hairstylists, salon owners, and anyone focused on offering an elevated client experience without the old-school sales pressure. Before affiliate links existed, retail looked like this:You’d buy six of every product, hope you sold all six, reorder, and repeat. Meanwhile, the majority of hair-care companies were mass-producing new formulas every other month, meaning you were constantly  purchasing more inventory just to keep up. As a business owner, that cycle was exhausting… and expensive. Then the pandemic hit.And suddenly, every bottle on the shelf turned into expensive décor. When affiliate links arrived, it just made sense. I could recommend high-quality hair products I actually  believe in without carrying a stockroom’s worth of inventory. Clients still get the right products, stylists get commission, and nothing collects dust. Now, not every company kept their affiliate programs once the world went back to “normal.” But the brands that did?They showed who truly supports hairstylists and understands how the modern salon runs. Affiliate links allow a stylist to focus on the job they’re meant to do: creating beautiful color, blending grays, crafting lived-in highlights, and giving clients the hair of their dreams — not  stressing about selling retail to hit a quota. We’re artists, not salespeople. This is why at Sunny Bunny, we choose brands with affiliate links:It keeps the experience authentic, sustainable, and stress-free for both the stylist and the client.

Most salons run on the same old playbook: retail shelves, front desks, receptionists, assistants, tier systems (junior → master, level 1 → level 100), tipping, and à la carte pricing.You know what all that creates? A whole lotta drama and inconsistency. When you give the power back to the stylist—yes, it comes with more responsibility—but it also comes with so much freedom. At Sunny Bunny, every stylist takes full ownership of their craft and their clients. They communicate directly through their work number and email, book and check out their own guests, and manage their own schedules. There’s no “running it by the owner,” because we believe in hiring responsible adults who thrive on autonomy. Traditional salon hierarchies—front desks, assistants, and level systems—tend to breed competition and resentment (a.k.a. drama-rama). At Sunny Bunny, we’re all equals. We station-share, we clean, we fold towels, and we look out for one another. It’s a space rooted in collaboration, not comparison. And for our clients? Transparency is everything. Our hourly, gratuity-free pricing means you know exactly  what you’re paying—no surprise add-ons, no awkward tip moments. For stylists, that translates into a consistent paycheck. For clients, it means peace of mind. So, why isn’t this the industry norm? Because change is uncomfortable. It asks us to rethink what’s always been done. But here’s the truth: if you don’t evolve with the times, you’ll get left behind. Sunny Bunny isn’t here to play by the old rules—we’re here to create better ones. ✨

Every once in a while, someone says to me, “Wait… so tips are included, right?” or “I just feel bad not tipping!” And honestly? I get it. The traditional tipping system has been part of the beauty industry for so long that it feels strange to walk into a salon where it doesn’t  exist. Even I sometimes find myself unprepared for the pushback—but that’s exactly why this conversation matters. 💛 Here’s the deal At Sunny Bunny, gratuity doesn’t exist—and it’s not “included” in the price either. We charge one flat hourly rate, the same way you’d see with a therapist, acupuncturist, or attorney. That means no guessing, no math at checkout, no pressure, and definitely no awkward “tip moments.” You know exactly what your service will cost before you even sit in the chair. 💬 “But I still want to tip you—I feel bad!” This one comes up a lot , and trust me—it’s always appreciated. When that happens, I like to say: “That means so much, thank you! The best way to show appreciation here is through rebooking, referrals, or leaving a review. That kind of support helps us grow more than any tip ever could.” 🌞 Why gratuity-free matters The tipping model in beauty has deep roots in systems that undervalued certain types of workers—especially women and people of color. It’s outdated, inconsistent, and often uncomfortable for everyone involved. Our gratuity-free model is about transparency, respect, and equality.  Stylists at Sunny Bunny set their own hourly rates based on their time, skill, and experience. Clients know exactly what they’re paying for, and stylists are compensated fairly and sustainably. No upselling. No awkward money exchanges. No mental math. Just clarity and trust. 💪 Change can feel weird (and that’s okay) We know this approach is still new for a lot of people. But the more we talk about it with calm confidence, the more normal it becomes. The beauty industry is evolving, and we’re proud to be part of that shift—one transparent conversation at a time. At the end of the day, it’s simple: Gratuity-free doesn’t mean tips are included. It means we’ve removed tipping altogether—because fair pay, respect, and clarity should never be optional.

Living in the Boston area, it’s easy to believe most folks share the same values of equality, compassion, and basic human rights. But recently, I had a moment that shook me. I watched our industry rally behind someone who represented everything I don’t. For the first time, I saw many of my peers speak up publicly—but not against violence, not for protecting lives. Instead, they called him “a man of Christ.” As a recovering Catholic who was confirmed, this felt deeply unsettling. I was taught that Jesus judged no one. He helped the poor, befriended sex workers and lepers—people shunned by the mainstream. To use his name to defend someone whose actions stand for the opposite? That, to me, is blasphemous. And I see it often—people quoting scriptures from the Bible to fit their narrative. A book of stories being twisted to justify bigotry, misogyny, and hatred. That is not faith. That is fear. Let me be clear: I believe guns should be banned. I will never condone acts of violence. But when children and civilians are being murdered daily, and the one time many in our industry choose to speak up is in support of a bigoted, misogynistic figure—it shook me to my core. Behind that anger is fear. Fear for our safety. Fear for our rights. Fear for the kind of future we’re leaving behind. That’s why at Sunny Bunny , I refuse to stay silent. Our culture is built around values that matter: 🌈 Equal rights for EVERYONE ✊ Racial justice + equity 💛 Bodily autonomy 🛑 Gun control + safer communities 🏳️‍⚧️ Trans rights are human rights We believe in building a salon that feels safe, inclusive, and aligned with compassion—not fear, hate, or exclusion. If these values resonate with you, welcome—you’re in the right place. ✂️☀️🐇If they don’t, that’s okay too. There are plenty of other salons with stylists that may feel like home to you. (In fact, I discovered quite a few this week.) But here at Sunny Bunny, our doors—and our hearts—are open to those who believe in kindness, equality, and community. Always.

Most people have never heard of Achalasia —and honestly, I wish I hadn’t either. It’s a rare esophageal disorder that affects about 1 in 100,000 people . And as fate would have it, I’m one of them. What Is Achalasia? Achalasia is when your esophagus (the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach) stops working the way it’s supposed to. Instead of smoothly moving food down, the muscles malfunction and the valve at the bottom doesn’t relax. Translation? Eating, drinking, and even swallowing water can feel like a battle. It’s not glamorous, it’s not fun, and it’s definitely not widely understood. My Bumpy Journey My path with Achalasia has been… let’s say colorful . From misdiagnoses to endless tests, I quickly learned that advocacy isn’t just helpful—it’s survival. The amount of research available is shockingly limited. When your “specialist” is still quoting studies from 1988, it doesn’t exactly scream confidence in modern medicine. Treatment (and the Lack of Coverage) The most recent treatment available—the POEM procedure  (Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy)—was introduced over 20 years ago. I had mine in May, and while it’s been life-changing in many ways, here’s the kicker: it’s not even covered by many insurance companies. So not only are patients left with an under-researched condition, but they’re also faced with barriers to accessing the very procedures that can bring relief. Will Achalasia Kill Me? Most likely no.Will it cause immense suffering if left untreated? Yes. That’s the reality. And that’s why awareness matters. Why Awareness Is So Important Because Achalasia is so rare, it doesn’t get the attention, funding, or research it deserves. Honestly, if a celebrity came forward with this diagnosis, I bet things would change overnight. But until then, it’s up to the rest of us—the everyday people navigating this disorder—to keep shining a light. Cherish Every Swallow So here’s my little reminder this September: give your esophagus some love.  Hug it. Appreciate it. And don’t take something as simple as swallowing for granted. Because for people with Achalasia, every sip, bite, and swallow is a reminder of just how much we need more awareness, research, and support. Xoxo,Meghan 💛

I love co-washes—especially for dense hair, whether it's fine or thick. They’re gentle, effective, and when used right, they can totally transform how your hair feels and behaves. Unlike traditional shampoos, co-washes are detergent-free , which means they cleanse without roughing up the cuticle. That’s a game-changer if you struggle with tangles or frizz. Think of it as the magician of detangling—it glides through knots and makes post-foil rinsing a dream. (Stylists, if you don’t have a co-wash on your back bar… you're missing out. Big time.) But let me be clear: co-wash is not  the "2-in-1 great hair, no fuss" Pert Plus of the ’80s. A true co-wash is a conditioning cleanser —it nourishes and gently cleanses at the same time, helping maintain your hair and scalp’s integrity. It’s multitasking done right . Now, here’s where I veer off from most co-wash marketing. Many brands will tell you that co-wash is all you need—and I respectfully disagree. Why? Because of modern life. Think: Air-drying residue Dry shampoo buildup Sweat SPF Not shampooing daily (which you shouldn’t  be, by the way) Before co-washing, you need to clarify —then follow up with your co-wash. This creates balance and sets the foundation for a healthy scalp and soft, manageable hair. And even if you’re not using a co-wash, the same rule applies: If you’re not washing your hair daily, you need to shampoo twice. The first round lifts away product, oil, and debris. The second one actually cleanses your scalp. It’s a small shift that makes a huge  difference. Bottom line? Don’t skip the double cleanse. And don’t sleep on co-wash. It’s all about balance—and better hair days are just a wash (or two) away. 😉

The hair industry has changed in so many ways—and honestly, mostly for the better. Techniques have evolved, creativity has expanded, and the client experience has become more elevated across the board. And with all that growth comes a natural shift in how we schedule appointments. For years, traditional foils (full or partial) were the gold standard. While one client’s foils processed, you’d start another foil, do a retouch, maybe even sneak in a blowout. That’s just how it was done. But then came the rise of ombré, balayage, and lived-in color. These modern applications require more precision, more time, and more presence. It quickly became clear: you can’t create that kind of magic while juggling multiple clients. It was time to level up—not just the hair, but the entire  experience. Two years ago, I made the decision to stop double-booking entirely. While most clients (and stylists) applauded the shift, there were some skeptics. And I get it—change is hard, especially in an industry where things have been done the same way for decades . But isn’t it wild? The beauty industry is all about evolving your look —but the systems and schedules? They’ve been stuck in 1998. Here’s the truth: I don’t miss double-booking one bit. Switching to a 1:1 model gave me more room to be an artist. It brought back flow and consistency. It eliminated the stress that comes from rushing between clients, worrying about timing, and feeling like you’re constantly behind. If you’re a stylist still stuck in a double-booking system, I see you. You’re likely stressed, burned out, and frustrated with your own work because you don’t have the time you need. That used to be me, too—and it’s not sustainable. Saying goodbye to double-booking has been one of the most freeing choices I’ve made. My clients feel the difference, and so do I. So here’s to slowing down, honoring the creative process, and giving both stylist and client the full attention they deserve. Next up? We’re diving into why hourly pricing makes this all possible—stay tuned.

The Tension Between Activity and Recovery Dealing with Achalasia adds complexity to finding time for rest. My journey began in late winter with a diagnosis that changed my life forever. By late May, I underwent a POEM procedure in hopes of finding relief. However, recovery has proven difficult due to complications like esophageal spasms, which led to frequent visits to Massachusetts General Hospital. This stress has made it hard to rest. Recovery typically follows a prescribed path, but interruptions and negative reactions to treatment can cause anxiety and frustration, making rest feel counterintuitive. Just last Monday, I was full of energy. I styled my hair, put on makeup, dressed up, cleaned my house, managed salon tasks, conducted interviews, and drove to Worcester to pick up Casey. It felt like an accomplishment! But as the saying goes, "too much of a good thing can be harmful." The crash came swiftly. The next day, I experienced painful esophageal spasms along with devastating fatigue. This cycle of highs and lows is common among those with chronic health issues, reminding us that overexertion can counteract recovery progress. The Emotional Toll of Illness In our society, there is a tendency to equate self-worth with busyness, linking productivity to personal value. This mindset makes it difficult for someone like me—who is used to being available to clients and friends—to allow myself to rest. The conflict between my health and my role as a service provider creates tension. The decision to reduce my schedule from fully booked to half felt practical, but it also felt like losing a part of myself. This led to feelings of guilt and inadequacy, stemming from the fear of disappointing clients or falling behind at work. During my numerous hospital visits, I've faced both physical and emotional challenges. Nurses have become my heroes, providing comfort and care. However, I often feel empathy fatigue, especially toward dramatic ER patients. Once, I observed a woman unraveling in distress every twenty minutes for nine hours—no exaggeration. These experiences shed light on our fragility and the importance of self-advocacy. I once told my gastroenterologist about my persistent pain, but his advice to drink warm water felt inadequate. Despite the support from Massachusetts General Hospital, I know that women's pain is often overlooked. I am living proof of that. The Importance of Support Networks During tough times, the significance of support networks becomes glaringly clear. I've been fortunate to have friends and family who consistently encourage me to slow down. Their gentle reminders to prioritize self-care are invaluable. Rest is not just inactivity; it’s a chance to recalibrate what truly matters. This chapter of my life has prompted me to lean on those I cherish. It reignites personal connections and helps me appreciate simple joys—like revisiting favorite shows during hospital stays. Who knew that a familiar face from The Pit would offer comfort during such trying times? If you didn't watch ER in the 90s... who are you? The Path Ahead: Finding Balance In my industry, pushing through fatigue is the norm. However, embracing rest can lead to a more sustainable and active life. I envision a future full of client interactions, weekends at the beach, spontaneous dances, and joyful yoga sessions. Yet, to achieve this, I must first accept the stillness currently present in my life. This is a pretty accurate image of my room. Observation and Bigelow doesn't play around;) Rest is akin to a secret weapon in your self-care toolkit, helping you tackle life's curveballs without feeling guilty. It's the ultimate combination of healing and happiness! Balancing self-care and service requires mastering the art of being a couch potato, allowing you to bounce back like a champ. If you're floundering, like me, remember to give your body a high-five with some downtime. True strength is all about pampering yourself while juggling life's chaos! Embracing rest and understanding its value can genuinely transform your approach to healing and overall well-being. You deserve it.

Most clients say that Sunny Bunny doesn’t feel like your typical salon—and that’s completely intentional. The first two salons I worked at were huge . I’m talking 5–8 stylists working side by side, blow dryers blasting, and multiple conversations flying at once. It was sensory overload. I had such a hard time hearing people (and for some reason, when I can’t hear, I talk louder—like, a lot  louder). Chalk it up to growing up in a loud family... it’s a thing. By the time I landed on Newbury Street, they tucked me in a quiet corner by myself (cue the Dirty Dancing  reference—“Nobody puts Baby in a corner,” except… they did). But honestly? That’s when everything shifted. That corner became Meghan’s confessional . I started keeping a box of tissues at my station because clients felt safe enough to open up, vent, cry, process. I was honored to hold space like that for them, and I realized: this is the kind of connection I want to build my salon around. So when I opened Sunny Bunny, I knew exactly what I didn’t want: ❌ Loud pop music ❌ A massive team ❌ A high-stimulation environment that made people feel more frazzled than when they walked in In fact, I worked solo for more than half the time I’ve been in business—intentionally. I knew that whenever I brought a team on, it had to be in a completely  different way. So we built Sunny Bunny to support more than just aesthetics. From sage and oracle decks to essential oils, Reiki-infused services, and hot towels—we’ve created a calm, nervous system-friendly space that invites you to exhale. We call it hair therapy , because it’s not just about hair. It’s about being seen, heard, and cared for. It’s about treating each client as a whole person, not just a head of hair. And when your nervous system feels safe and supported? That’s  when the magic happens—on the inside and  out. You’ll enjoy your appointment, feel like yourself, and walk out with great hair. Simple as that. 💛