Changes Hair Studio celebrates 25-year anniversary

April 7, 2022 · 0 Comments

Written By Paula Brown

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

It’s a champagne celebration.

Changes Hair Studio, a locally-based hair salon, marked a milestone last month as they celebrated 25 years in business on March 25.

“It’s been a crazy 25 years, and I’ve grown so much over time,” said Glenda Keeping, owner of Changes Hair Studio. “When I opened up, I had no idea what I was doing and it’s kind of surreal to think about. With all that has gone on over the last couple years I feel like I survived, and it feels good.”

Speaking about her career thus far, Keeping can recall knowing from a young age that she wanted to become a hairstylist.

“As a little girl I was always walking around with combs and brushes in my hand, and I would tell my parents this is what I’m going to do,” said Keeping. “I was one of those kids that wanted to do everything, but didn’t want to do anything when I got to it so I quit on everything. Hairstyling was one of those things that I had a passion for and knew I wanted to do.”

Attending Art and Technique Academy of Hairstyling and Esthetics in Brampton, Keeping graduated from the program in 1990 and gradually began her career. Working in Orangeville for a few years, Keeping officially purchased Changes Hair Studio, which was an existing hair salon, in 1997.

Looking back, Keeping admits to initially feeling apprehension into owning and operating her own salon.

“I knew I wanted to cut hair, but it was the business side of it that was scary to me. It was important for me to be around the people that knew me and by the time I actually went into business people were very receptive and the support was amazing,” said Keeping.

Over the years, Changes Hair Studio itself has seen many changes, going through five renovations at its original location, 518 Main Street, and growing from two stylists to six.

Along with renovations, Keeping notes how important continued education has been in the salon’s growth and providing hairstyling for ever-changing hair trends.

“One thing I take great pride in is sending our team for further education. A lot of the time we do hear ‘you get your hair done in Shelburne, what do they know’, and you don’t need to be in a big town or community to succeed,” she said. “We’ve worked hard to make people realize just because we’re from a small town doesn’t mean we don’t know what we’re doing.”

Coming off of two difficult years due to the pandemic, hitting the 25-year milestone, Keeping said is special.

“The team I have and the support that I’ve had has been amazing. They’ve held me up when I couldn’t stand anymore,” said Keeping holding back tears. “Those are the moments that I cherish, is that great support.”

While some look forward to the next big anniversary, Keeping said she is focused on embracing the time they’ve had so far.

“I’m just really embracing the 25 years at the moment,” said Keeping. “We always have goals for the future like growing our company, bringing up new talent and continuing to service the community. Thank you for the support over the 25 years.”