BETHEL --It's not enough to just get your hair cut anymore.
It's all about what salon has the best stylists, prices and atmosphere. For 25 years Rue de Sean, at 12 Depot Place above the Putnam House Restaurant, has provided the total package for its customers.
"Everyone is so friendly," said customer Janel Liss of New Fairfield. "The atmosphere is very warm and welcoming and they treat you so well."
"What makes Rue de Sean different than any other salon is that it's personal service and attention," owner Sean Wheeler said.
"I've been a hairdresser for over 30 years and I used to work in salons that were big and all about business. I wanted something small and intimate."
When Wheeler first saw the building that his salon now occupies, he knew that's where he wanted to be.
His salon opened in June 1984 and has been keeping it simple since.
The salon has four chairs for hairdressers to work on their customers, a washing station, and sitting areas for customers to wait during various services.
Wheeler said that he's had chances to move and expand, but that's not what his business is about.
Although the economy is in a fragile state, Rue de Sean still is bringing in customers.
"In the first quarter it was unusually slow, but now our sales are up and are 40 percent higher than last year. It seems that people are spending money again," Wheeler said.
Kari Barrett, a hairdresser for 21 years, said
word of mouth helps the business.
"The customers here bring their children and grandchildren in and tell their friends about us," she said. "We have three generations of families here and if that doesn't say how loyal our customers are, I don't know what does."
Men make up 30 percent of Rue de Sean's revenue, Wheeler said. A haircut can cost from $55 to $85, coloring starts at $60, and foil starts at $95.
Customers have had to book three months in advance to get a seat at the salon. They usually book their next two appointments while they are there, Wheeler said.
While getting their hair done, clients can order lunch to be sent up from the restaurant below. "That's another thing that makes my salon different," Wheeler said. "You could say we pamper our customers."
Barrett said she used to work in a big salon before coming to Rue de Sean.
"Everyone here is on a first-name basis," she said. "It's a comfortable atmosphere, which is one of the big things that keeps our customers coming back."