Say hello to a new “sister act” at the Village Square Shopping Center in downtown Redmond.
Cynthia (Glessner) Olson and Paula Glessner-Vallee opened G2 Salon — as in “Glessners times two” — last month at 16150 NE 85th St., Suite 213.
Raised on a wheat farm in Eastern Washington, the sisters said they developed an entrepreneurial spirit early on, when their father, Albert Glessner, started a successful well-drilling business during their childhood.
For the past 20 years, Cynthia styled hair at various local salons and longed to start her own business, but didn’t feel comfortable with tasks such as marketing and bookkeeping. Paula, a 10-year resident of the community, was an accountant for the Lake Washington School District and offered to begin a new career, overseeing business operations so that Cynthia could fulfill her dream.
At G2 Salon, seven sole proprietor hair stylists serve clients of all ages. Each comes with his or her particular expertise, so “there’s something for everyone,” said Paula, whether you’re a high school student, Baby Boomer or senior citizen.
First-time clients at G2 Salon receive a half-price haircut or a free haircut with chemical services such as color or a perm.
“We’ve had lots of followers and lots of walk-ins, people who’ve heard about us from other local business owners or just driving by and seeing our sign,” said Cynthia.
“And we gave out coupons at Redmond Derby Days and got a lot of referrals from that,” Paula added.
Even in a sluggish economy, business has been steady, the sisters said.
“Some things are a luxury, but a haircut is something you have to have,” Cynthia noted.
The sisters anticipate doing a holiday open house and perhaps donating haircuts to people who’ve lost their jobs and need to freshen their appearance.
“We’re just in the beginning stage of putting something together,” said Cynthia.
Meanwhile, the sisters are enjoying their bright and airy salon. They said customers find the surroundings cheery, too.
“Everybody here has their own personality and their own specialties,” said Cynthia. “We can match new clients with stylists who meet their needs.”
For appointments or information, call (425) 883-8037.
