Rock n’ Roll & a Touch of Glitz: Meet HUSH Studio

There’s a new salon in Cranston, but don’t let owner Tasha Brown Schopac hear you call it that. For one thing, “salon” isn’t even in the name—and that was by design.

I sat down with the Tasha, owner of HUSH Studio, to learn a little more about this hip, edgy “studio” that provides services to both men and women under one roof. It’s a space she describes as “rock n’ roll with a touch of glitz”.

Why did you name HUSH Studio a “Studio” and not a “Salon”?

“When I think of the word “salon” I think of a women-only space for hair and nails. And when I think of the term “barbershop”, which is classically only for men – you compare the two and it results in a segregation of gender. I needed a word that described the unity I was envisioning. To me a “studio” is a place where artists of all types can go to showcase their work. HUSH is a warm, comfortable and judgement free space. I like to think it feels a little secretive, a little sexy, because we cater to all with a mix of design elements that are unexpected. It feels risky, hip and a bit like magic because we are going for a different kind of concept. And magic is where confidence thrives. I wanted a studio experience for our talent and our clientele. It’s an approach that allows for our artists to excel at their chosen craft – and allows our clients to look and feel amazing after a HUSH Studio experience.”

It’s an approach that is working. Since HUSH’s opening in February 2018 it’s been a non-stop pace for the in-house staff, owner included (with her incredible nail work, Tasha is constantly in demand). The hectic pace has made for some (happy) challenges.

As a first time business owner, what are you most excited about and what were some of your unexpected challenges?

“I get to do things my own way, incorporating my own vision and style—which includes a bit of edge and sass. HUSH is a literal manifestation of a dream I had for such a long time, and that’s an excitement that doesn’t end. The challenge, which I’m sure many other business owners will hear me on this, is wearing so many hats! Running the business side of things, but still working behind the chair with my own clients, and all the while wanting to mentor and guide my own staff and insure all our clients feel welcome and appreciated. Oh and throw in being a mom and a wife! There’s some challenges but I love each and every second of this crazy world I’ve created.”

How long have you personally been in this industry?

“I’m coming up on eight and a half years. I always wanted to be in this industry since I was a little kid. I went through school like my parents suggested and received my Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting with a concentration in Business Administration Tax. I honestly tried so hard to work in the corporate world but I always felt like I was living someone else’s life. It lacked creativity and passion, I was unhappy with what I was doing. And then, just like that, one day I just decided to change my life. I went back to school to become a nail technician and I haven’t looked back since that day. I love what I do, I love my clients, adore connecting with my peers in this industry – I thrive on it all.”

You have spoken a bit about the importance of serving both men and women in one cohesive space. What else makes HUSH Studio so special?

“My vision was to make HUSH Studio special in a number of ways. It’s an edgy, funky space that carries a great vibe for both men and women alike. Our talent includes barbers, stylists/colorists and nail technicians. We offer a little bit of everything all under one roof. When thinking of design, I picked a décor that was eclectic. We have a mix of an industrial feel [there are rolling tool chests for workstations with dark wood surfaces] and yet dangling above are small chandeliers—even a bit of glitter in the wall paint. I tried very hard to make sure that everyone who walks in the door can sense the atmosphere I’m going for with HUSH. Inclusive, comfortable, eclectic.”

This vision is driving HUSH’s success, which also means an increased need for artists to join the Studio’s talented line-up. Tasha explained her selectiveness and her willing to wait for right fit.

What do you look for when hiring talent?

“This is one of my favorite questions because before I even opened HUSH, I knew exactly the type of artists I would want in my Studio. I want trendy, passionate individuals who want to further their craft, ones that want to grow and who are willing to take their passion to the next level. Those are the ones that are hungry to do incredible work. This selective type of talent are the artists I want to showcase at HUSH. They are artists who feed off each other’s energy and work together to create beauty in all different ways.”

Anything else you’d like to mention about your journey so far as owner of HUSH Studio?

“I am incredibly grateful for the tremendous support system full of family and friends who have constantly cheered me on from day one. I’m also grateful to anyone that helped propel my drive for more, and my desire to learn. Prior to HUSH, I was lucky to work at incredible salons with talented artists, and they only further fueled my passion for this industry. I am so grateful for having this opportunity to live this dream as the owner of HUSH Studio.”

To experience the one of kind atmosphere of this boutique style studio, visit www.hushstudiori.com or like their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/hushstudiori/ and follow their Instagram @hushstudio_ri.