La Jolla salon owner shares life story and lessons in debut book

Jonathan Berrebi made a successful life for himself in southern France, operating three hair salons over the span of 20 years. But to the surprise of his longtime friends, he made the bold decision around the time of the COVID-19 pandemic to move to La Jolla and open Jonathan Le Salon.

“My life was amazing in France,” Berrebi said. “And everybody said ‘Jonathan, are you crazy? … Why do you want to … go to America? You have everything … your hair salon, 35 employees. Your life is beautiful.’

“But no, I really wanted to share my passion with American people and share my French touch.”

Now he’s also sharing his story with the world.

Berrebi, known professionally by his first name, recently released “Styles Beyond Borders: The True Story of a French Celebrity Hair Stylist’s Rise in America,” a book chronicling his early life, career development and move to the United States. Written with Simonne Rossi-Paumard over the past 2½ years, “Styles Beyond Borders” offers personal stories, insights and key moments in Berrebi’s life.

Berrebi is one of three siblings — along with sisters Flora and Helena — who became hairdressers. Their grandfather and great-grandparents also were in that profession.

“It is in our genes,” Berrebi said.

Jonathan Le Salon opened nearly three years ago at 909 Prospect St. with hairdressing services Berrebi describes as “an intimate dialogue between the creator and the person seated before the mirror.”

Berrebi “fell in love” with La Jolla and San Diego in general.

“When I arrived, it was at the end of the pandemic,” he said. “The market was difficult, [but] I … [began to] be known by the people, not just because they say ‘He’s a hairdresser.’ People say ‘That’s Jonathan. Go see Jonathan.’”

Bringing his 167-page book to life was an emotional process and a testament to pursuing one’s passions, he said.

The writing was bolstered by Rossi-Paumard, a French-born author whom Berrebi met in San Diego and “immediately connected” with.

Rossi-Paumard, a self-described transformational and mindfulness trainer, released “Symphonic Alchemy: Elevating Conversations with Emotional Resonance” in 2023. The 108-page book explores language as a means of boosting personal growth and enriching relationships.

“It was very important for me to share my story, because for a hair designer or hairdresser, I’m very different,” Berrebi said. “I’m more [of an] artisan-first stylist or hairdresser. I really do my magic when somebody comes to my salon. Right away I understand the mood of the people and what the people really need without saying a word.”

Reflecting on his journey, Berrebi has a core message for readers.

“If you have a dream, follow your dream,” he said, “whatever the compromise you need to do. But I think life is about choices. And when you choose, you win.”

“Styles Beyond Borders” became available on Amazon in both English and French in December. To commemorate its release, Berrebi is slated to hold a book signing from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at his salon. The public event will include champagne and French food.