Glamorous curls, beachy, bohemian waves and sleek updos are no longer reserved just for celebrities on the red carpet- or limited to your next scheduled visit to the hairdresser.
Shine Blowdry Bar, Richmond’s first salon devoted exclusively to hairstyling and makeup services, opened this April near Willow Lawn (5227 W. Broad Street). See Blow-dry bar to open on Broad Street – Richmond.com
“We leave the haircuts and color treatments to the traditional salons,” founder and CEO Allison Bridges said. “At Shine, we simply ‘wash, blowdry and dazzle.’”
With 10 styling stations, the 1,440 square foot, modern salon is designed to be walk-in friendly. There is no need to make an appointment, with the exception of booking large/private parties or visits outside of regular business hours. See New blow-dry bar blows into the West End this April – RVANews
Modern Elegance, Affordable Luxury
Just as “The Rachel,” which dominated as the most popular hair trend of the 1990s, has given way to today’s “Kate Middleton,” the styling services of yesteryear have evolved into a niche industry, burgeoning in metropolitan markets across the country.
“It’s no wonder why blowdry bars are trending,” Bridges said. “They offer an easy, affordable boost, whether it’s for a special occasion or a fun pick-me-up. I’m excited to introduce my version of the concept to Richmond.” See Richmond Magazine’s review of Shine Blowdry Bar on Shop Talk.
At Shine Blowdry Bar, the experience typically starts with a complimentary cup of coffee or glass of wine (for patrons over 21) and a peek at a “Look Book” for inspiration on various styles, ranging from the bouncy “Starlet” to the sleek “Executive Sweet.” Click here for the full Look Book.
Basic blowouts include a shampoo, blowdry and styling at a flat fee $40, no matter the hair length or level of difficulty. Kids under 10 are eligible for “The Twinkle” styling at $25.
Updos, braids and on-location styling can be scheduled at additional cost. Hair repair and massage treatments and a variety of makeup services are also available.
A typical styling session lasts approximately 45 minutes, and the look can be maintained for several days. Shine Blowdry Bar has its own line of haircare products designed especially to preserve the style. Products are available in-store and can also be ordered online here.
Gift certificates and membership packages are also available for purchase on the salon’s website.
Dazzle, Dazzle Superstar
A mother of two and a Princeton graduate with an M.B.A from the University of Virginia’s Darden Business School, Bridges left a career of finance to own and manage a small, local clinical laboratory system. With nearly 20 years of business experience under her belt, she saw an opportunity for a new venture that would celebrate and support other women.
Bridges intends to partner with local organizations that support the advancement of women in areas of health, business, education and self-esteem and those that celebrate healthy role models for girls.
“It takes courage to go after your dreams,” Bridges said. “I like to think of Shine as a network of women who champion one another,” Bridges said. “We want everyone who walks through our doors to leave here feeling- and looking- like a superstar.”
Photos by Trevor Dickerson of Boulevard Creative.
