A year has flown by for Studio77Salon owner Linda Skagen.
Skagen, who previously owned eight different salons in Calgary, opened Studio77Salon at 9877 Maple St. exactly a year ago on Nov. 1, 2017 after coming to Chemainus.
“I can’t believe it’s a year already,” she conceded. “It just flew by.”
The business has met and far exceeded Skagen’s expectations.
“It’s actually gone better,” she said. “I’ve increased the business by three (times) since I’ve been here.”
From Nov. 1 of last year to February 2018, Skagen worked the salon on her own.
She introduced a ‘Blowout service’ which she thought would be a great addition. The concept was simple - shampoo, condition, head, neck and shoulder massage, and finishing with a blow-dry, but that didn’t take off as anticipated.
“We called it HotAire Treatment,” Skagen noted. “Maybe the name wasn’t a hit?”
In February this year, she brought in Anna Nhu with Nhu’s Beauty Nails into the salon. Nhu owns her business within Studio77Salon.
“Both my salon and Anna’s pedicures and manicures grew quickly,” Skagen pointed out. “In August as I looked at our businesses I knew I had to make some changes.”
Nhu’s Beauty Nails was moved to the barber side of the shop to make some room for growth.
Also in February, Gerri Leathley was hired as salon coordinator.
“She helps to keep us organized, booking appointments, greeting clients, making sure they are where they need to be in the salon/spa and barber area,” explained Skagen.
Leathley provides that personal touch with little extras like bringing guests coffee or tea and hanging up their coats and gets them when the customer is ready to leave.
“Gerri keeps our salon and surroundings spotless,” Skagen added. “She always has a quick smile.”
All of the haircuts are done on one side of the shop now for men and women, and the salon/barber business continues to grow rapidly.
Appointments take priority and walk-ins are only done if there’s time available. Skagen marvels how the guys are now getting in the habit of booking appointments to avoid disappointment.
Beginning Nov. 27, Christina Kemp from Calgary will be coming to make Studio77Salon and The Barber her permanent workplace. Kemp has 12 years of experience in hairstyling and barbering.
“Christina worked with me in Calgary and I am so excited to introduce her to my clients and have new clients enjoy her work,” pointed out Skagen. “She’s very talented.”
Kemp’s specialties include: colour, cutting and weddings/event hair and she’s also a make-up artist.
Hot foam for barbering and shaving will be introduced in the new year.
“I want to thank all of the wonderful people who make our salon buzz,” summed up Skagen. “We appreciate you.”
