Salon Seva offers more than hair care
Nicole Sukel still recalls being nudged toward cosmetology school by friends and family who recognized her natural knack for it.
That push led her to a 26-year career as a stylist.
Sukel also remembers sitting down to lunch with her husband and making another decision that would shape her life: starting a business.
“I was 20 years in and ready to start something new, and we said, ‘Let’s do it’,” Sukel said.
Sukel opened Salon Seva in Charleroi in 2018, operating with a small team that offers everything from hair coloring to brow lamination and tint. Clients can get a manicure and a haircut in the same afternoon, and recently, the salon welcomed an esthetician to the team for skin care services.
Sukel said the salon is a one-stop-shop for self-care as well as a place that clients feel welcomed and at home.
“I think the biggest compliment I ever receive is how comfortable people are here. They don’t feel like they have to be dressed up or have their hair done to get their hair done. It’s comfortable and zen and just a good space here,” Sukel said.
Clients feel so comfortable in fact, that most have become friends, sharing their lives with the team at Salon Seva.
Sukel took her role to heart and has even expanded her expertise to help her clients.
“I think in this industry, schools should really include some psychology courses in the program. I think we’re oftentimes life coaches and psychologists. We often tell our stylists so much more than we tell anyone else,” Sukel said.
This prompted her to earn certification as a life coach.
“Our relationships are deeper. They’re often looking for guidance whether it be a problem at work or what they are going to have for dinner. We’re a sounding board,” Sukel said. “I can honestly say that almost all of my clients are like family or really good friends.”
When Sukel first opened her salon, she had thoughts of a large staff and a huge business but she’s found the smaller, intimate group provides just what the client needs.
“At first, my husband and I were working on getting the salon open. We did it in under three months and then it was just me and my clients. I wasn’t sure what I wanted, but over the years, I’ve discovered, it’s much better to have a small and happy group than a lot of people and chaos,” Sukel said.
She said she’s happy with the life and business she’s built for herself.
“I could do this for another 20 years. I have achieved so much more than I ever thought I would and I’m happy where I’m at,” Sukel said. “Will I go for more? Maybe, but for right now I’m good.”
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