Patty Kaepernich and daughter Kimberly Hermke invite you to come in to their new Hair and Company Salon, located at 511 S. Pearl Street, across from Marly’s Restaurant. They moved from the Wolf River Plaza location last month.
As you walk in the door, a feeling of calm will overtake you as an earthy color palette and subdued lighting welcome you in. A rich leather seating area near reception is a focal point, with a half wall separation to the salon area. Metal wall accents are interesting and pull you in to experience what Hair and Company has to offer.
They still offer Aveda products, as they have for years. “We stay with Aveda because it is ecologically sound and the best product you can use on your hair, whether you are washing it or getting color applied,” said Kaepernich. “It doesn’t smell like most salons in here because Aveda uses ingredients that are not harsh or harmful to your body.”
Kaepernich and Hermke will still be doing great hair styles, coloring and facial waxing. Their wash bowls and waxing area is now located in a separate room which gives clients the privacy to relax.
Hermke, a stylist for nine years now, attended classes in Chicago for a product new to the Midwest, “Be Gorgeous” hair extensions. Having long hair extensions herself, she is a walking example. The extensions are offered in a variety of colors, both vibrant and subdued, to offer fun and brightness, or blend in for added volume. “I recently was able to give a client who was balding some fullness in her hair and we were both very happy with the outcome,” said Hermke.
When Wolf River Plaza opened in downtown New London 30 years ago, Kaepernich was one of the first occupants. She’s seen a lot of businesses come and go, but always had a steady flow of customers supporting her there. “We’ve had to live by the mall hours for all these years, and it’s going to be nice to pick and choose our time a little more now,” said Kaepernich. The new salon will be open Tuesdays from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Wednesdays from noon – 8 p.m., Thursday and Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m. – noon.
The mother and daughter team are enjoying their new Salon, and celebrating the down-sizing in two ways. For Kaepernich it’s a chance to slow down a little. “Mom has grandchildren she wants to enjoy, and controlling her appointments will allow her to set her own schedule,” said her daughter. Hermke, on the other hand, is looking forward to ramping up and someday owning the business. “We have a third chair, and there will be room for growth,” said Hermke. “It’ll just be a matter of time.”