PITTSTON, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A modern approach to salon management has one women-owned business in Luzerne County getting lots of attention on social media.
28/22 News stopped by to find out how a "genderless” menu has created a safe space and a booming business.
A snip here, and a foil there, The Hive Salon Collective is quickly making its mark in Pittston and beyond because now, there's even buzz about the business on social media.
Earlier this year, the salon collective, which opened two years ago on Main Street, garnered hundreds of thousands of views on TikTok, with a pair of videos about their pricing.
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"That just doesn't make sense pricing-wise to charge them based on their, like, perceived, like, gender. We should charge based on how much hair they have and how much work we're putting into it," said owner and stylist Sarah Perrego.
Traditionally, salons will charge based on men's cuts vs. women's cuts, but according to The Hive, that's not only outdated, it's also unfair to customers.
"I have quite a few women clients and female-presenting clients who do get shorter cuts. Just clipper cuts. So why would I charge them $50 when I could just charge them the $30 price?" said stylist/colorist Rachel Magnotta.
28/22 News visited during Pride month to see how The Hive is using their pricing model to create a culture that reflects a modern beauty industry.
"We want people to feel as safe as possible, because it is a safe space," explained salon coordinator Katie Lux.
The Hive estimates that at least 70% of their clientele is made up of members of the LGBTQIA+ community, so making sure all clients feel safe in the chair is a top priority.
"And we will never ever ever trip up and go backwards. This place is only going forwards," said Lux.
The Hive Salon Collective is offering rainbow extensions. Proceeds will benefit local LGBTQIA+ organizations.
