Business Q&A: Creative Impressions

Brenda Gallow, daughter of Creative Impressions owner Pasquale Grisasi, is also a stylist at the salon. Gallow took time out to tell Patch about the business, what makes it so popular and some helpful hair advice.

Give us some background on how Creative Impressions began.

"My mom, from age 16, was an assistant at that salon, back then it was called Donise. My parents had just gotten married and the owner of Donise was looking to sell. The opportunity came and my dad bought the business from that man. He was 22 years old at that time. He has been there ever since. He has been the owner for 45 years and is still active in the business."

What are the different types of services you offer?

"We offer hair cutting, styling, European hair color and SoCap hair extension."

Are there any unique services that your clients enjoy?

"We also offer a silkening treatment. That is a great thing because it takes about 15 minutes to do and it leaves the hair shiny, soft and silky for about three weeks."

What is your favorite line of hair products?

"I love the nTrance and Alfaparf Semi Di Lino. They are a unique product line – not everyone carries them. They leave hair silky and shiny. The NTrance has the argan oil in it, which I love."

Why do you like owning a business in East Meadow?

"It is still just a family oriented place. We have generations that have been coming back to us. It is very homey and very family oriented. We are always doing the gift certificates for the local fire department and other fundraisers that come in for them."

Is there any hair care advice you can offer?

"I would say if you would like to keep your hair shiny and soft is to definitely wash your hair every other day and always rinse with cool water after shampooing and conditioning."

Why do your customers keep coming back?

"Again, we are just friendly. They are comfortable. We offer great services, top-notch product lines and friendly services in a friendly atmosphere"