Vonetta Dumas Jennings is a distinguished Cosmetology Instructor, Master Hair Stylist and Image Management Specialist, with particular expertise in healthy hair care, cutting, and coloring techniques, with an impressive career spanning nearly three decades. From her Cincinnati roots to thriving in Washington, DC, Vonetta has been transforming lives by crafting Signature Images for a wide-ranging clientele – from students and professionals to diplomats, executives, and celebrities.
In 2011, she founded Signature Image Salon, an Aveda Concept Salon that serves more than just beauty. It’s a symbol of empowerment for people, offering high-quality beauty services and forging impactful community engagement. This salon extends beyond the realms of a beauty hub – it stands as a pillar of inspiration, support, and empowerment within the DC community and beyond.
Vonetta’s holistic approach to beauty and image management helps clients transform self-consciousness into self-confidence by enhancing their overall self-image creating the Signature Image that best represents each individual. She firmly believes that a Signature Image not only bolsters confidence but leaves an indelible impression on those encountered.
She has been a beauty and makeover expert on multiple TV shows, magazines, and media organizations, including Great Day Washington, Fox News, and WHUR Radio. She also holds a seat on The DC Board of Barber and Cosmetology, has chaired their Annual Practitioner Forum, and hosted as a master of ceremonies.
Her contributions to the field of beauty also saw her salon, Signature Image Salon, being celebrated as the Best Salon in Washington, DC by Expertise.com, Refinery 29, and Politics of Pretty. Beyond her salon’s recognition, She has also made her mark in the literary world as the co-author of the acclaimed self-help book, “Executive Etiquette Power: Top Experts Share What To Know To Advance Your Career.”
Vonetta’s commitment to nurturing her team’s growth is deeply rooted in her work ethos. She accentuates the importance of professionalism and skill-based learning, both within and outside her salon. Her consulting and professional services are designed to empower individuals and teams with the skills needed to excel in today’s competitive world. Whether it’s one-on-one sessions or team workshops, Vonetta provides a platform to refine both personal and professional images.
Vonetta has facilitated numerous workshops and seminars for organizations like DC government-funded youth programs, the BET Foundation, Jack and Jill of America Foundation, and N Street Village. Despite her professional engagements, Vonetta remains committed to her community.
Vonetta’s achievements are both extensive and impressive. In 2023, she was recognized with the Leadership and Service Award from the DC Federation of Democratic Women. During her tenure as their President, of the DCFDW, she championed a groundbreaking pilot program to establish a campaign school. In the same momentous year, her unwavering dedication and impactful contributions earned her the esteemed Washington Women of Excellence Award for Impact in Women Empowerment. This prestigious honor, presented by the Mayor’s Office of Women Policy and Initiatives, the District of Columbia Commission for Women, and Mayor Muriel Bowser, served to underline her commitment to empowering women and catalyzing positive change and equality.
This impressive array of accolades and achievements is a testament to Vonetta’s commitment, skill, and influence in her field, demonstrating her passion for fostering women’s empowerment and contributing to the broader community.
Despite her professional engagements, Vonetta remains committed to her community as a member of the U Street Main Street Neighborhood Strategy Council with District Bridges, a collaboration of business owners and neighboring residents. She has also served as an elected public official as Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner.
Beyond her career Vonetta leads a fulfilling life when away from her professional endeavors and service commitments. Vonetta indulges in personal pursuits like attending sporting events, finds rejuvenation in biking, solace on the water, as an avid boater, and engages in the sport of golfing. An adventurer at heart, Vonetta loves hiking, bravely exploring national parks and landmarks in during all climates and weather conditions. Enjoyment in planning memorable events and experiences. Vonetta loves to traverse the globe, basking in new cultural experiences, exploring global cuisines, all the while cherishing these moments with her family and friends. In addition she love history and architecture. These experiences nurture her creativity and offer a diverse perspective on style, elegance, and grace, all of which she incorporates into her professional work.
Her educational background includes an Associate’s degree in Applied Business from the University of Cincinnati and a Bachelor’s degree in Speech Communication from Northern Kentucky University.
As Vonetta strides into the next phase of her career, her unwavering passion to amplify her impact sparks her ambition. Keen to share her vast expertise on broader platforms like professional conferences, she aims to captivate a wider audience of ambitious professionals and executives, illuminating the significance of an authentic personal brand. Simultaneously, she is committed to providing comprehensive training to cosmetology professionals, aiming to enhance their professionalism and business skills to foster career advancement and financial stability. Beyond her professional endeavors, Vonetta is pioneering a non-profit committed to empowering women and families, not only aiming to boost confidence but ignite profound, transformative changes through comprehensive etiquette training. Embrace this opportunity to join Vonetta’s transformative journey, marked not just by external change, but by deep, internal evolution – a journey towards a balanced life enriched by personal and professional growth, guided by the seasoned hand of this dedicated professional.