S.O. Resident Owns Aveda Salon on Springfield Ave.

But Kim Hammer, South Orange resident and owner of Fringe on Springfield Avenue, says that, for many people, hair care is that line in the sand. "Clients say they'll eat ramen nooodles every night before they give up their hair color!"

And so Fringe, which is the only salon with Aveda-certified stylists in Maplewood, is doing gangbusters business. The salon which uses only the sustainable hair colors, conditioners, makeups and lotions produced by Aveda--and avoids harsh chemicals--is "bursting at the seams," said Hammer. Business has tripled since her opening on May 1, 2007. When her 5-year lease expires in a couple of years, Hammer says she will most likely be looking to expand, probably to a larger space on Springfield Avenue.

Springfield Avenue?

"These are my people," Hammer told Patch a couple weeks back and she reiterated her love of Springfield Avenue in an interview yesterday. "Someone asked me why I wanted to be on the Avenue. It's like Brooklyn. And I said, 'Of, course! That's where we come from.'"

Hammer said she likes how Springfield Avenue attracts a diverse, artistic community. "But I also wanted Springfield Avenue because I made amazing connections with the other business owners." Hammer mentions Meera and Glen at KnitKnack, Clain and Brian at Clain Pilates, Tim at Thy Gym, and Kari at Kari's Cafe.

Her daughter also attends nearby Seth Boyden Elementary School.

Besides, Hammer said, the location is super-accessible to clients and staff. "We've got routes 24 and 78, the Parkway." She noted that some clients come in from the City. Many drive but still others take the train. "We pick them up!"

Haircuts at Fringe start at $45 and color at $55. Fringe also offers services like massage, waxing and facials. They're open Tuesdays through Saturdays. 

This reporter has always been struck by how clean and fresh the air smells in Fringe. Is Hammer filtering the air? Pumping in oxygen? "No," said Hammer, "We don't smell toxic. That's with intention. That's our pairing with Aveda and its products."

Asked to comment on the opening of another hair care shop across the street--Elite Cutz--Hammer said she welcomed the new store.

"It doesn't feel like competition. I'm passionate about my craft and excited for anybody who is in this business."

Finally, Hammer insisted on being photographed with her staff. "I have the best people in the world who work for me," said Hammer. "We are a family." She noted that her full-time employees receive health insurance benefits.

Now that's sustainability.