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Reina P. Cunningham

Staff Writer

For their 22 years of service in Middlesboro, Hair Studio has been chosen as this weeks installment of Surviving the Hard Times.

Regena Simpson first opened the salon in 1991 in a little shop on 22nd Street that her business called home for its first six years.

After a successful start, Simpson decided she needed to move her salon to a larger location to better accommodate increasing customer demand.

The demand led them to Cumberland Avenue for a brief period before moving back to 22nd Street a short time later.

The salon has been at their newest location of 109 South 22nd Street for the past 12 years.

Simpson believes there are several reasons her salon has remained successful through tough economic times.

The shop owner feels her competitive pricing is an obvious advantage in today’s economy.

“That’s how we’ve stayed in business,” explained Simpson. “Our prices.”

But pricing is not the only thing Simpson feels the salon has going, she believes the business’ professionalism has helped through the years.

“And we do good work,” continued Simpson. “I mean we’ve been in business for (almost) 25 years.”

Simpson also credits her success to her employees.

Master Stylist Debbie Sutton has been with the business for several years.

Sutton has won people’s choice awards several times during her career.

Master Stylist Mary Partin is the newest addition to the salon.

Partin has been with Hair Studio since October and specializes in color and foil highlights. She is currently offering a summer special — 14 foils for $34.95.

The stylists are all in agreement that they are blessed in their profession.

They believe their success is a reflection of the Christian atmosphere they provide for the faithful clients that God has blessed them with for so many years.

Simpson is looking to further expand her business by adding a nail technician or massage therapist. The newest addition will have a private room to work out of.

Those interested in working at the salon or scheduling an appointment can reach Simpson at 606-248-8279.

To nominate a long-standing locally owned business to be featured in Surviving the Hard Times, contact Reina Parker Cunningham at rpcunningham@civitasmedia.com or by phone at 606-248-1010, ext. 205.