Salon DC is a small hair salon located in downtown Lexington. During the months of COVID-19 lockdown, this business was affected in several ways. Deanna Cook is the owner of this local business. 

Cook’s shop was closed from March 21 through May 15. When Cook was informed by the governor that she had to close, she was very worried. 

“When my shop had to close because of COVID-19, I was worried that we wouldn’t have a place to come back to. If I couldn’t find a way to pay the bills, my shop could potentially close permanently,” said Cook. “I was also worried about the safety and well-being of my clients and employees.” 

Cook faced several obstacles while her shop was closed. 

“The biggest obstacle we had to overcome was my employees and I still had bills to pay with no income,” said Cook. “I helped them to the best of my ability, and I spent countless hours helping them file for unemployment. It was very challenging.”

Salon DC has set strict safety protocols in place post-reopening to ensure the safety of others. 

“We (clients and stylists) are required to wear masks and apply hand sanitizer before entering. Customers must enter through one door and exit through another,” said Cook. “We spend 15 minutes cleaning in between clients, there is 10 feet in between each station, and only three employees can work at a time, each with their own client.”

The employees of Salon DC schedules differ a lot from before and after COVID-19. 

“Right now, we are limited to half the amount of business we were doing before COVID-19,” said Cook. Employees now have to alternate the days we work, and we don’t take walk-ins anymore.” 

Sophomore Paul Russell is an RCHS student that gets his hair cut at Salon DC. 

 “I love to talk to all of the employees because everyone at the shop is so nice and welcoming,” said Russell. “It is very hard to follow COVID-19 guidelines while getting your haircut. Also, scheduling your appointment is challenging, as Salon DC is attempting to limit their number of customers at one time.” 

Cook is very appreciative that her shop is now reopened. 

“I am grateful that my shop has reopened,” said Cook. “Although it’s very difficult with all the restrictions we have to follow, my employees and I are making the best with what we have to work with and continue to have faith in moving forward.”