Business Spotlight: Vamp Hair Studio

When other businesses are closing or cutting back, there's one that is actually expanding and hiring—Vamp Hair Studio. Indeed, the studio, which has been a staple in Upper Montclair for five years, has added a second floor where customers can enjoy manicures, pedicures, threading, waxing, and sugaring (sugaring is done at body temperature with no need for heat). The studio is busy—but is about to get even busier. And so this week's business spotlight is on Vamp Hair Studio. If you know of a business that would like to be spotlighted, email Shelley@patch.com.

In The Spotlight:

Vamp Hair Studio

224 Lorraine Avenue

Montclair, 07043

973-744-3035

Hours: Tuesday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesday to Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What do they offer?

Vamp Hair Studio specializes in, of course, hair. It offers women's cuts priced from $40 to $85, depending on the stylist. And it offers men's cuts priced from $20 to $60. It also offers color, highlights, and intense conditioning treatments.

What sets Vamp apart from other hair studios?

Vamp also boasts unique services, everything from jelly pedicures to lip threading. And it does photo shoots (just take a gander at these images). Owner Danielle Cirilli says the studio also requires a lot more training than other salons. "We do various education classes monthly for all of our stylists," she said. "No one gets on the floor without completing a training program."

Who are they?

Cirilli, who lives in Jersey City, has over 11 years in the beauty and fashion industry. Her education began at the Aveda Institute in New York City and continued in New York City salons. Eager to pursue a career in editorial, she became a freelance hairstylist/makeup artist. She perfected her craft in print as well as on the runway and collaborated with many other well respected artists, magazines, and agencies in the industry.

How long have they been there?

Cirilli opened Vamp in Upper Montclair five years ago with just two assistants. She said it's the ideal location as there aren't a lot of salons in Upper Montclair like there are in other parts of town. She also cited the ample parking available in back of Vamp, and even a garden area where clients can sit in the warmer weather.

Why are they in our business spotlight?

Vamp has managed to grow over the last five years, even in the face of a struggling economy. And recently the business added a second story, with gorgeous wood floors and walls painted in "million dollar red" by Benjamin Moore. There's a waxing room, space for manicures and pedicures, and a drying station. After starting the business with only two assistants, Cirilli now employs five stylists, two apprentices, and one nail technician—and is looking to hire more.

Did you know?

Cirilli said that the trend now is for "beach hair"—or hair that looks like you've just spent a day at the beach. "We're doing a lot more painting on of highlights," she said. "We're also doing a lot of nail art. A lot of people are coming in wanting art or crystals on just one finger." But Cirilli noted that it's not always a good idea to follow trends. "People need a hairstyle that looks good on them," she said. "We want them to be able to do their hair themselves after they get home.

"Everyone's face is different so everyone needs their own individual style," she added.