MARMORA — “Hair always grows,” stylist Kevin Harrington said. “It comes back for more and we are ready for them.”
Brothers Paul and Kevin Harrington and staff have been providing quality cuts, colors and creativity for four decades at Salon Salon in Marmora.
The philosophy of the full-service hair salon, which held an open house June 13 to celebrate its 40th anniversary, is “every person should leave our salon feeling radiant, refreshed and renewed.”
The shop opened June 16, 1986, under their mother, Marlene Harrington, who worked with them through 2017. Now the staff consists of Paul, 58, and Kevin, 56, along with stylist Randi Scheck, whom some may remember as manager of Village Barber Shop at the Wayside Village and at the Chop Shop in Marmora.
The brothers grew up in Upper Township and graduated from Ocean City High School, Class of 1985 and 1988. Paul now lives in Egg Harbor Township while Kevin is in Linwood.
Paul said the salon has not remained static but evolved over time.
“We strive to keep ahead of trends and education training by going to shows in Dallas, Chicago, New York,” he said.
Paul said they try to provide a welcoming environment and the latest fashions in hair design.
“We have plenty of clients that have been with us since 40 years ago, and have all grown together,” Paul said. “We have had generations of families.”
The open house provided an opportunity for clients old and new to gather and reminisce.
“I just wanted to open our doors to everyone who has been a client and we’re hoping to introduce the salon to new clients, let them know we have been there a long time and hope to be there longer,” Paul said.
“A little giveback to loyal clients,” Kevin added. “A celebration of the patriotism that has kept us open and thriving.”
There was food and prizes.
“After 40 years, we (had) no idea how many people (would) be available,” Paul said.
While the salon is located in a year-round community, their business fluctuates with the tourism season.
“We have people that revolve annually, some come back in winter, some come back in summer. We always have a strong client base to keep us busy,” he added.
The salon also gives back to the community through its participation in charitable projects. They collect basic necessities such as toiletries and personal care products for the county’s growing homeless population. In addition, the salon holds a winter coat collection and participates in Toys for Tots.
Scheck joined the salon in 2019 and has become “our community leader,” Kevin said, noting she is involved with the Ocean City-Upper Township Rotary Club and outreach programs in Pleasantville.
“She keeps us in the public eye, often using the salon for Christmas gift wrapping for children in need,” Paul said.
In addition, there is an almost daily drop off of clothing and items for the “less fortunate that are right in our community.”
Even before Scheck started leading the charge, the brothers always took part in the community.
They worked with the Make A Wish Foundation for 10 years and have been working with Toys for Tots for 30 years.
Salon Salon is located at 297 South Shore Road, at the Plaza 9 center in Marmora. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays.
– By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff
