When Teddie Kossof first ventured into the salon industry, he had high hopes and a vision. Forty-three years later, Teddie Kossof Salon Spa has become a pride of Northfield, mainstay on Chicago’s North Shore, and respected name in the beauty industry nationwide.
Teddie grew up in Skokie and always considered himself to have a creative mind, but using those skills to enter the beauty world was not his plan. Teddie was introduced to the salon world by his mother, a talented hairstylist. Kossof recalls, “As a kid, I would go to the salon my mom worked at because I wanted to borrow her car.” But there was a catch! He had to work for it. “She said, ‘fine, if you brush out these heads, tease the hair, then you can have the car!’” and that’s how Teddie was introduced to the industry.
As a wrestler and football player at Niles East High School, he earned a scholarship to play football at Southern Illinois University. He returned home and was considering enrolling in design school when his father suggested beauty school, and Teddie took his advice. After graduating, he worked for a few salons in Skokie while keeping his eye set on starting his own business.
In 1975, Teddies Hair Designers opened in Northfield at 281 North Waukegan Road. Over the years Kossof built upon his concept, bringing together every possible beauty related service under one roof, and sharing their space with a number of great businesses.
Teddie says, “Things at the salon continue to evolve. My son and business partner Alan has been working for the salon s for 20 years now. He represents the future and has done a lot to keep us ahead of the curve. The team we have at Teddies is among the best and their loyalty is paramount. We are proud of our 90 team members- several who have served for over 20, 30 and even 40 years!” Teddie remains a part of the daily activities and still serves a select clientele, stating “I enjoy meeting new clients and introducing them to my talented team.”
Anyone who knows Teddie knows his passion for helping the Northfield community. Annually the salon and its staff donate over $150,000 in services to local community organizations. Teddie says,
“We never say no to a donation request, and are committed to doing our part to support the community that has supported us.”
Schedule an appointment today to enjoy one of their many salon and spa services by calling (847)999-9500 or visiting them online at www.teddiekossof.com.