Spotlight on Clayton Hair Salon: A Local Gem in Downtown Clayton
In the heart of Clayton, North Carolina, where small businesses thrive and community spirit runs deep, Clayton Hair Salon stands out as a beacon of personalized beauty care. Nestled in an adorable old historic-style home at 214 E 2nd St, this charming establishment has been serving residents for years, blending expert services with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Operated by seasoned stylist Kristty Smith, the salon embodies the essence of local entrepreneurship—dedicated, professional, and deeply connected to the town it calls home. Whether you’re a long-time local or a newcomer, Clayton Hair Salon offers a refreshing escape from the hustle of chain salons, focusing on quality, attention to detail, and genuine customer appreciation. As part of our ongoing series highlighting Clayton’s small businesses on claytonsmallbiz.com, let’s dive into what makes this salon a must-visit.
The story of Clayton Hair Salon is rooted in passion and experience. To many longtime residents, the salon is affectionately known as “Miss Violet’s Place,” a nod to its enduring presence in the community. Violet & Linwood Barbour are the owners of the location and have been a solid presence there since the late 80’s. “Miss Violet” herself can be found with a smile and a kind word or two there on Saturday mornings taking care of some of her long-term clients. As Miss Violet started taking it easier, Kristty approached her about the location – and the two teamed up. Kristty, the driving force behind the current business, brings over 30 years of expertise as a professional hair stylist and salon owner. For 12 years, she owned and operated Hair on Main in downtown Clayton, building a loyal clientele through her skillful hands and approachable demeanor. The two teamed up in 2013 and brought new clients and life to “Miss Violet’s Place” that continues to grow by the day. This history isn’t just about longevity; it’s about evolving with the town’s needs while maintaining that small-town charm. Kristty’s journey reflects the resilience of local entrepreneurs who pour their hearts into their ventures, creating spaces that feel like extensions of home. The combination of Miss Violet and her wonderful location – and Kristty’s long-time presence in the Clayton hair salon world – a perfect match!
At Clayton Hair Salon, the menu of services caters to a wide range of beauty needs, ensuring everyone leaves looking and feeling their best. Hair services are the cornerstone, with Kristty specializing in expert hair colors, haircuts, and perms. Drawing on her 25 years in the industry, she tackles everything from bold transformations to subtle enhancements, always tailored to the client’s vision. But the salon doesn’t stop at hair—nail services add another layer of pampering, courtesy of professional nail technician Becky Gordon. With 12 years of experience, Becky delivers meticulous manicures, pedicures, and nail art that complement any style. Pricing is reasonable, often noted as “$$” by satisfied customers, making high-quality care accessible without breaking the bank. Whether you’re prepping for a special event or just need a routine touch-up, the salon’s offerings emphasize precision and personalization.
What truly sets Clayton Hair Salon apart is its exceptional staff. Kristty Smith isn’t just a stylist; she’s a listener and a problem-solver. As one client, Gina L., puts it, “It’s my opinion that one reason Kristty does a great job is that she listens. Another seems to be that when I’m in her chair, she is focused on my head, not answering the phone or chatting up other people. Kristty is very professional and personable.” This undivided attention is a salon policy: “When we are with customers, we do not return/answer calls. We always give our clients our full and undivided attention.” Becky Gordon complements this team dynamic with her nail expertise, ensuring a cohesive experience where every service feels seamless and attentive.
Customer testimonials paint a vivid picture of the salon’s impact on the community. From families to seniors, clients rave about the results and the environment. Find out more on Google Maps. Jonathan Buckner shares, “This is the only place my children will get their hair cut! We all love Kristy and we love her prices!” Another reviewer, Brenda A., highlights Kristty’s skill with challenging cases: “Kristy cut my 87 year old mom’s hair and she did a fabulous job! Senior hair cuts are a challenge – my mom has lost a lot of her hair, and what is left is baby fine yet ‘wirey’ at the same time.” The salon’s 5/5 ratings underscore this satisfaction, with patrons like Becky F. praising the location: “Her shop is in an adorable old historic-style home in Clayton’s beautiful little downtown area, and there is plenty of parking available.” These stories reveal a business that’s more than a service provider—it’s a trusted partner in personal care, fostering lasting relationships.
Unique features abound at Clayton Hair Salon, enhancing its appeal as a local standout. The historic home setting creates a cozy, intimate vibe, far removed from sterile corporate salons. Easy access via a ramp from behind the “Brick and Mortar” restaurant on Main St makes it convenient for all. The booking process is straightforward and modern: For appointments within 24 hours, texting (919) 795-6742 is preferred, though calls are welcome too. This flexibility suits busy Clayton lifestyles. While not explicitly touting eco-friendly practices or awards, the salon’s emphasis on sincere appreciation—“However you know the location or find us, you’re always sure to get a warm greeting, professional service, and sincere appreciation for your business!”—speaks to its community-oriented ethos. Follow Clayton Hair on Facebook.
In a town like Clayton, where small businesses are the backbone of the economy, Clayton Hair Salon exemplifies success through dedication and heart. It’s a place where expertise meets empathy, and every visit feels special. If you’re in need of a fresh look or just a relaxing self-care session, head to 214 E 2nd St. Support local, and discover why so many call it the “TOPS in Clayton hair salons.” For more on Clayton’s vibrant small business scene, stay tuned to claytonsmallbiz.com.
