On Friday, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers ordered hair salons to close their doors to help limit the spread of COVID-19. This directive initiated unique challenges that local salons must adjust to or face a fine.
“At first I was mad. I’m the only one at my salon and there has never been more than ten people in there at one time,” said Kristen Niehaus, owner of Split Ends Hair Salon in Marshfield. “I felt like the rules didn’t or shouldn’t apply to such small businesses. I don’t qualify for unemployment since I’m self employed so having zero income is terrifying.”
Neihaus joined a newly-created Facebook group with many of the other salons in town to help share ideas on how to keep their businesses from completely falling apart. She was inspired by the creative ideas and community spirit, but said there isn’t much people can do to support them outside of purchasing products or gift cards.
“There really isn’t anything we can do other than offer products and gift cards to be picked up. Right now, it seems like most salons will be offering curbside pickup for products and gift cards during scheduled times,” said Niehaus. “That’s legally all we can do until we’re safe to practice again.”
Though challenging to business now, Niehaus hopes that these measures help “flatten the curve” for now and allow for everyone to be together again in the future.
She does have one request for clients!
“As beauty professionals, all we ask of our clients (and the public in general) is please, please, please don’t cut your own bangs! I promise, it’s not worth it!!” she said, joking. “We’re not getting our hair done either. If we all stay home and flatten the curve we’ll be back together in no time.”
To purchase a Split Ends Hair Salon gift certificate, contact them at (715) 305-1146.
Note: Per Governor Evers order announced today, the guidelines for business closure have increased. Read more here.
Author: Breanna Butler
Breanna Butler is an award-winning multimedia producer born and raised in Central Wisconsin. She enjoys exploring and writing about the community. She lives in Marshfield with her husband and furry family.
