In downtown Rye, where hair salons abound and small businesses come and go on a regular basis, celebrating a seventh anniversary is an achievement.
By Melanie Cane
In downtown Rye, where hair salons abound and small businesses come and go on a regular basis, celebrating a seventh anniversary is an achievement. How is Brenda Maeda, owner and chief stylist of Hair and Beyond, marking the occasion? By giving back — with free makeovers for seven lucky winners.
Hair and Beyond has thrived during the good times, struggled through the economic downturn, and was threatened by Hurricane Sandy. Yet, Maeda, a Guatemalan immigrant and self-made entrepreneur with a huge dream, manages to stay afloat.
When she started the salon, she was the only stylist, and her sister, Jackie, would come after high school to help out. Now, she has a staff of 14, including Jackie and five other stylists, two assistants, four receptionists, one manager, and a salon housekeeper.
There are several keys to Hair and Beyond’s longevity. First and foremost, they provide high-quality customized service (and products) in a warm and affable environment where the client is their number one priority. The talented and experienced, albeit young, staff is dedicated to fulfilling all of their clients’ beauty needs, including hair, (styling, color, extensions, and precision cutting), make-up, and eyebrow waxing. Their connection to every client, young and old, male and female, shines through in every interaction.
The staff’s devotion spills over to the community at-large through fundraising activities for causes such as autism, breast cancer awareness, and Locks of Love. Every Christmas, they hold parties for underprivileged children. Hair and Beyond offers special rates for prom makeovers to students in the Rye School District, as well as discounted hair extensions to team members and fans in the school colors.
Hair and Beyond also frequently runs promotions. Currently, they have a “spring into summer” special on Keratin treatments.
A community asset on a variety of levels, Hair and Beyond provides fantastic and wide-ranging services (including bridal parties) in a friendly and relaxing atmosphere. And the multi-talented staff goes out of their way to accommodate last-minute appointments and walk-ins.
For more information about the free makeover contest, discounted hair extensions, or to make an appointment, contact Brenda Maeda at hairandbeyondbybrenda@yahoo.com.
