Tucked into a residential neighbourhood, one Guelph hair salon is offering residents a stress-free experience while getting a haircut during the current pandemic – a backyard bubble haircut.
A haircut at Chez Allison Organic Salon involves a PVC bubble set up in the backyard, overlooking flower beds and statues, while a stylist in head-to-toe personal protection equipment (PPE) cuts your hair.
The bubble even has its own YouTube video.
“As far as I know, I’m the only one who has a bubble,” said Allison Christie, the owner and hairstylist at Chez Allison. “The outdoor patio experience that I was providing was such a huge success, that I wanted to try and extend that as much as possible.”
While these changes weren’t cheap – the bubble cost over a $1,000 – Christie isn’t putting a price on safety.
Diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, she said it was important to her that she and her clients felt safe while partaking in these services.
“It took me a good month to get into the rhythm of the new way to run the salon, both inside and outside.” said Christie about working with the added safety measures.
“I change my gown and my mask after every single client, and washing your hands before and after each client, and cleaning off all the touchpoint surfaces...It feels more clinical, and I wanted to make it feel more enjoyable.”
Although these additional protocols may not be exclusive to only to her salon, \with this new setup Christie said she can continue to work outside in temperatures as low as -4 C.
“The Weather Network is saying that we could have a very mild fall and late start to the winter.” said Christie, “I thought I would only be able to do it until November 1, but I may be able to work out there until December. That would be amazing!”
Before stepping into the bubble, all appointments start with a Skype consultation to understand what the client is looking for, get a rundown of the safety protocols and to answer any questions.
She also offers early appointments for frontline workers, seniors and other clients who are immunocompromised.
“I think a lot of people have fear right now and I’m just trying to do everything that I can to create a rich environment. ” she said.
For those not warming up to the idea of getting an outdoor haircut during this time of year, Christie said they can also book an indoor appointment.
As businesses continue to adapt to provide services during the pandemic, Christie said the bubble has been such a great investment, that she will continue to use it after the pandemic is over.
“I’ve been doing hair for 32 years and I haven’t experienced anything like this, it’s been a lot of fun.” said Christie.
