Profiles In Business Excellence: Gwen's Salon

     Years ago when I lived in Kingston, I would cross the busy Ave. for a haircut and style at Sassy Shears. Today I'm visiting my former hangout, now known as Gwen's Avenue Salon, to meet Gwen and catch up.
     On a beautiful October day, Gwen and I are relaxing on the white bench outside the salon. Against the background sounds of traffic and the wind chimes that tinkle whenever someone enters the building, we chat.
     Interestingly, Gwen Hufford and Betty Lynn Kempinski- owner of Sassy Shears- worked together more than 20 years ago. When Betty Lynn was looking to sell the salon, Gwen saw her opportunity to expand her business that had once been in Luzerne.
     Gwen graduated from Empire Beauty School and has been a stylist for more than 20 years. For about three years, Gwen, her daughter Lura, and Betty Lynn have been running the full-service salon. Gwen offers "quality service and reasonable prices."
     As she pauses to wave at a pedestrian, Gwen addresses her and her daughter by name. As they talk briefly about the nearby gift shop where the woman is headed, I feel this is not going to be the last time during our interview that Gwen smiles and greets a client. I ask about her clients, and she responds enthusiastically.
     "They're great," she says. "I feel very fortunate to be a part of this small town. It's big enough for me."
     She helps customers relax when they visit her salon by offering snacks and drinks in a casual atmosphere.
     "I want them to feel comfortable, like they're coming to my home," she says. "In my profession, I touch people every dayÑwashing their hair, touching their faces. It makes them feel good; it's healing."
     Clients have also told Gwen and her staff that they are their "therapists," one adding, "If I ever need to know anything, I ask my hairdresser."
     Gwen's Avenue Salon also contributes to the community by supporting local churches, high schools, and Candy's Place.
     "I like to keep money local," she said.
     And she certainly likes what she does.
     "We're all happy and busy here," she says as she shifts in the bench. "I see myself having this job...all my life.