W Salon
"Our team has the willingness to learn and progress no matter how many years of experience," says Wendy Do, W Salon co-owner. "It keeps us humble, fresh and very competitive." Do and her partner Thi Nguyen, who serves as the artistic director, believe that leading by positive example encourages enthusiasm and success. The 1,200-square-foot salon, which opened in 2006, offers a full menu of hair services, as well as waxing, permanent cosmetics and eyelash extensions. It features a clean, white contemporary decor, with 20-foot ceilings and draping metal mesh curtains dividing the open space. While the salon's clientele range in age and lifestyle, they all have something in common, according to Do: "They are very particular and want a quality haircut and color, sometimes with a little edge. They have high expectations and expect us to give our best."
J Salon
J Salon co-owner Gary Casupang attributes much of the salon's success to its ongoing in-house education and dedication to training. "We aim to exceed our clients' expectations and establish genuine relationships with them, and we stick to doing what we know best—hair," Casupang says. Co-owner and hairstylist Joe Randazzo oversees the technical skills and creative areas of the team, while Casupang manages the operations of the salon. The 2,500-square-foot salon features a modern and understated decor, with deep charcoal gray walls and chrome, slate and dark wood accents, creating a sultry atmosphere. The minimalist design allows the product lines and stylists to be the focus. The salon's diverse clientele can choose from a range of hair services, including cuts, color and conditioning treatments customized to suit their individual needs.
Salon Blanc
Salon Blanc's goal is to act as a blank canvas for its hair artists. "We enable and enhance our artisans' ability to create cutting-edge works within the realm of modern hair design," co-owner Alan Vuong says. "It's a dynamic space, created around the notion that the environment not only influences the work, but becomes a necessary component in the creative process." Located on Ala Moana Boulevard, the salon offers clients a variety of cut, color and styling services. The space is designed to look like an art gallery, with continually changing artwork and furniture. "The aesthetic of the salon is ever-changing, mirroring the ebb and tide of the hair, design and fashion worlds, with a rotating collection of furniture, art and fixtures," Vuong says. "Our goal is to contribute to the enrichment of the quality of lives for the people of Hawaii."