In a news conference on Tuesday afternoon Gov. Greg Abbott announced he is allowing hair salons, nail salons and barber shops to reopen on Friday under certain guidelines. Now, local salons are making their last-minute preparations to reopen.
Abbott is allowing salons to open under certain, specific guidelines: They include having only one customer per stylist with at least 6 feet between stations; and customers must maintain social distancing while waiting inside, otherwise they must wait outside or in their vehicle.
Ariel Gonzalez, a master stylist at Atelier Salon, said the salon has been closed for more than a month, but when it reopens, she said all employees there will be required to wear a mask. Customers are encouraged to wear one.
"We want our clients to feel safe while they're here in our chairs, and so if someone's not wearing a mask next to you, I'm sure that may cause some hesitation,” Gonzalez said. “So if anybody that comes in, if they can wear a mask that'd be great."
Gonzalez said the salon no longer will be double-booking. She's also encouraging clients to come to their appointments alone to minimize crowds inside. Under Abbott’s order, walk-in appointments also are allowed.
But for Gonzalez, she and other stylists are just excited to see their clients again.
“We're ready to get back to work and see our guests again, and to make everyone happy and make them beautiful,” she said.
And if you are planning on getting your hair cut or styled very soon, stylists are also encouraging you to call ahead of time to make sure you have an appointment.
