Studio B, a Salon and Beauty Boutique

In every small town across America, there’s at least one salon that raises the bar for everyone else. Cranston, RI (population 80,529) has Studio B, a Salon and Beauty Boutique.

Cranston, once known as Pawtuxet, is a city in Providence County, RI. In addition to being home to the corporate headquarters of jewelry maker Alex and Ani, the city is also known for holding the first U.S. auto race, at Narragansett Park. When it comes to hair and beauty services, locals and visitors race to Studio B, a Salon and Beauty Boutique, where everyone leaves a winner.

The 1,000-square-foot salon, which opened in 2011, offers cuts, color, styling, keratin treatments, hair extensions, brow shaping, makeup application and bridal beauty services. A clean, modern decor combines with an abundance of natural light and exposed 20-foot ceilings to provide a loft-like and industrial feel. Open seven days a week, the salon hosts various events, including a VIP Client Appreciation Party every spring where attendees receive discounts on purchases and deluxe gift bags of products; at The Perfect Prom event, the salon collects gently used prom dresses to donate to two local high schools. “We also work with one of the local school guidance counselors to set up complimentary hair and makeup services on prom day for girls who would normally miss out on this experience,” says Steve Beaman, who co-owns the salon with Kristi Scialla-Beaman.

In addition to loyal clientele and a talented and passionate team, Beaman attributes much of the salon’s success to its focus on education. Private, hands-on in-salon classes are offered to stylists every four to six weeks, and topics range from cutting and coloring techniques to upstyling and makeup artistry. “When Kristi and I opened Studio B, our vision was to build a modern and trendy salon that focuses on what we do best: hair and makeup,” Beaman says. “It was also important to us that we were able to incorporate the beauty boutique into the business. We wanted our clients to be able to come in and get their hair and makeup done, but also be able to shop for great beauty products with no pressure from knowledgeable stylists and makeup artists.” ✂ —Nicole Altavilla

In stock: Alterna Haircare, Beautyblender, Bliss, Clarisonic, Paul Mitchell, Red Flower, Stila Cosmetics