Signatures Salon — the hair, makeup and skin care salon with a 26-year history in Southwest Louisiana — is expanding its business footprint, services and product offerings. It’s inviting other stylists to share in its commitment to staying on top of the latest trends through education. And, it’s keeping some things exactly the same.

The salon is redefining its position as one of the area’s premiere brands by announcing the addition of two new businesses, The Studios and The Space. The Studios and The Space are located next door to Signatures Salon in the newly acquired building previously occupied by Demarie Insurance Agency.

The Studios

“Studios at Signatures is the perfect opportunity for stylists to have their own business and enjoy the benefits of a great location,” said Wendy White, owner.

The insurance offices weren’t simply spruced up. Studios were redesigned by people who know the hair and skin industry. With brand new Interiors and state-of-the art amenities, stylists enjoy access to a break room, washer and dryer, wifi connection and the luxury brands of Signature Salon.

“We could have simply expanded and added more staff to Signatures Salon, but the spirit of entrepreneurship is pervasive among stylists and estheticians,” said White. “With their own studio, they manage their own schedule, to determine and enhance client expectations. “Success in this business is 80 percent personality and 20 percent talent.”

Perhaps the biggest draw for these business owners who will rent their space here is the complementary education through Signatures Salon.

“If you’re a stylist, you know how important it is to stay on top of the latest trends,” White said. “Staying educated is the key to staying competitive.”

Most recently, Signatures Salon was designated a Bellami Flagship Salon, just one example of their commitment to staying abreast of trends – in this case hair extensions – and bringing in world class education.

“Education isn’t just about staying on top of trends or gaining technical skills,” said Amanda Pugh. (She leases Studio 3.) “Education keeps me inspired.”

The Space

Because education has proven to be so important to the success of Signatures Salon and stylists in general, White realized the purchase of the new property as the opportunity to have a place to host education really close by and add a revenue stream.

The Space at Signatures is a 1,200-square-foot “blank canvas of a room,” that accommodates a group of as many as 65 and is available for special events. Signatures designers can help create the atmosphere for the event if needed. A small garden and kitchen are accessible.

The Space is a place for bridal parties to rent and get their hair and makeup done on premises. It’s an ideal backdrop for photographers. The size is right for seminars and classes.

“Its most recent use was as a pop-up shop,” White said. “Local vendors sold crafts, jewelry, clothing and one vendor offered complimentary massages.”

The space is available for a two-hour minimum.

Signatures Salon’s mission remains unchanged, according to White.

“We deliver personalized, artistic services by an educated, dedicated team in a positive, God-honoring environment,” White said.

The more hairstyles change, the more hairstyles stay the same

Signatures Salon serves second and third generations. Clientele is diverse, but many express a desire to stay relevant in today’s fashion world. Requests range from tinsel to extensions, makeup for special occasions to ultrasonic facials. Body waxing to full lashes and single process color to highlights.

“We still do looks that appear like a set and style,” White said. “But it’s not only the granddaughter of that set and style that might request pink hair. A grandmother might ask for a few strands of that same pink.”

Finally, White offered tips for someone visiting Signatures Salon and the Studio for the first time: “Don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if you think it might be silly and always expect a hair stylist to listen.”