Two Stops for Total Glam on Springfield

was just about born with a flair for hair and a passion for fashion.

“I had clients when I was in elementary school,” she says with a laugh. “And I was my grandmother’s personal stylist for as early as I can remember.” And while her friends and family grew ever glam through her talents, Hutchins grew to realize her interest was far beyond superficial.

“I guess I just feel best when I’m helping others,” she says. She was actually in college for nursing when she became pregnant with her son, Omar. Realizing that nursing hours and a newborn would be a tough combination, she turned back to her beauty background. is actually the third successful beauty shop Hutchins has owned and operated (she also launched and The Weave Station on Springfield Avenue). “I really enjoy helping improve other people's self-esteem,” she explains.

She’s also really good at what she does, and counts celebs like Jill Scott and Tyler Perry amongst her clients. Others actually fly in for her services, which include personal shopping, styling, beauty treatments and hair (she’s famed for her weaving and short cuts).

In person, she’s a walking advertisement for beauty; warm, exotic and grounded, she possesses a quick laugh and an equally quick wit. Her personality is as much of a draw as her skills and Salon Fa is a showcase for both.

“I love the energy here,” says Teryia Hunter, sitting in the chair to prepare for her 30^th birthday celebration. “I come all the way from Woodbridge.” In fact, Salon Fa's chairs are often filled with folks from all over South Jersey and even Pennsylvania.

In broad daylight, you’d never imagine Hutchins is anywhere near 38. You’d also never guess that she’d just recently experienced a devastating loss: in February, her son, Omar Townes Jr. passed away from Leukemia at the age of 19. “I learned that even at your lowest point, you can become inspired,” says Fatisha, who has started a foundation in honor of Omar, who was studying to become a male nurse. A poster of her handsome son greets patrons in the salon’s foyer.

Hutchins has also channeled some of that inspiration into The Closet Collection by Ahmed, a clothing boutique adjacent to Salon Fa, which stocks an impressive range of fashion and accessories, including knock-out shoes and a small consignment section.  Along with business partner Ahmed Dowdell, Hutchins has created side by side one-stop shopping for stylish ladies from all around. “The response has been great,” said Hutchins with a smile. “People have really responded well.”

The Salon and shop aren’t even “really” open yet — the grand opening’s coming in July, but there are plenty of grand reasons to stop by now. Did I mention they’re also going to have massage, manicures and pedicures in the midst of all this?

Springfield Avenue's never looked this good!

Salon Fa, 1921 Springfield Avenue, 973-388-7702. Until they officially open, basic store and salon hours are 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m M-F; from 7 a.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. Sunday. (The Closet Collection is next door, to the left— if it looks closed, walk into the Salon, they’ll open it up for you!)