After more than a decade of running Cuts-N-Curls salon in Solon, founder Deborah Gideon is satisfied with its evolution and ready to pass the curling iron to her successor.
When Gideon reflected on her career at Cuts-N-Curls, she said she never could have expected her idea of a children’s salon with a fun, upbeat environment could transform into a shop for the whole family with the ability to accommodate all kinds of children.
“It’s so much more than just a hair salon,” said Gideon, who is a member of B’nai Jeshurun Congregation in Pepper Pike. “I saw it as a destination place so you can come with your children and they would get their haircut, but it evolved into full service for families. It was a natural progression.”
The store started as an idea when Gideon saw a child’s salon during her travels. She knew she could replicate the store in the Cleveland-area community, but it started to change to fit her customers’ needs. As the store evolved to be more accommodating, especially to children with special needs, Gideon saw her employees grow on a personal level.
“I saw the whole thing as an adventure and learning experience, not just for myself, but I always try to make it a learning experience for my staff,” said Gideon, who retired Dec. 17. “I think these stylists are so much better trained and prepared than a regular salon because they are dealing with so much.”
One of those employees is Lindsey Terry, 27, of Twinsburg who has been working at the store for six years. Gideon knew she couldn’t sell the store to just anyone and after seeing Terry’s motivation in the salon, Gideon knew she found the right person.
“I’ve always wanted to own a hair salon,” Terry said. “Deborah has taught me everything on the business side. She’s been a really great role model for me. I mean, she’s watched me grow up. I’ve learned a lot from her than just business. ... I wouldn’t be able to do it without her.”
The salon offers services for children and adults, such as manicures, pedicures, coloring, highlights and ear piercings. Children also can have a birthday party and walk down the “red carpet” wearing makeup and a new hairdo.
As Terry takes over, she wants to add her signature to the store, such as a castle on the back wall and a private salon room for children who have a difficult time getting a haircut and for Orthodox women.
Gideon said she would not be surprised if Terry added locations.
“For me, I’ve achieved what I wanted to do here,” Gideon said. “I’m actually really excited not to know what’s next. I’m going to explore all of my options. For a while, I think I’m going to enjoy being retired and spend time with my family.”
