NORTH SMITHFIELD – Tucked away in a business suite beside the Rock Cliff Farms condominiums, Emilie Carpenter is taking in business – one client at a time.
Carpenter, a North Smithfield resident, opened Stay Salon Studio in August with the motto, “Stay happy. Stay youthful. Stay awhile.”
The salon offers guests traditional cut and color services, but the unlike the crowded businesses that shuffle clients from chair to chair in a rush to service more, Carpentier believes in pampering her customers with professional and individual attention.
“You’re not juggled around,” Carpentier said. “I’m with you for the whole experience.”
The stylist – who notes she’s worked in the industry for more than 17 years – believes in servicing her clients one at a time. Appointments are booked individually with no walk-in service, and only one customer is permitted in the salon at a time, unless they invite a friend or family member.
It’s a format that she notes is ideal during the ongoing pandemic.
“With the private space, I’ve had a lot of clients reach out to me who weren’t comfortable going elsewhere,” Carpentier said.
So far, she notes clients have been impressed with the precautions she takes to keep the salon clean and the virus-free.
“It’s a very private, tranquil space,” Carpentier said. “I wanted a comfortable place for everyone to come and stay.”
The space, she said, wasn’t easy to find amid the pandemic.
“It was a challenge to try to locate a commercial space in the middle of closures,” she said.
The salon also focuses on more natural, organic hair products and whenever possible, on buying local. Once the pandemic passes, Carpentier says she plans to offer clients treats from local businesses like Wright’s Dairy Farm, and to host community events such as hair and makeup tutorials.
“Community is a big thing to me,” she said.
In addition to natural, cruelty-free hair products, the Carpentier also uses a steam dryer, which conditions hair more than dry heat.
“Your hair is in better condition when you leave,” she said.
A Woonsocket native, Carpentier noted she last rented space in a salon at Slatersville Plaza, and that many of her clients have followed her to the new suite on Old Louisquisset Pike.
Appointments can be made Tuesday through Saturday by calling (401) 309-4697. To book a private appointment by email or learn more about prices and services, visit Stay Salon Studio online at https://www.staysalonstudio.com/
