This week marks the opening of the new pedicure room and reception area at Image Empire salon, located at 39 Main St. It is the first of several renovations.
Currently, the salon is giving haircuts, colors, perms, manicures and pedicures. But in the coming month, a room will be added for facials, body waxing and massage.
A grand reopening is in the works to mark the completion of all renovations, and local and student artists are invited to feature their artwork on the big day, which will be open to the public.
This week's additions add a fresh level of comfort to the salon, which has been a prominent Geneseo business for 10 years. "We are living such fast-paced lives," said Angel Berry, the salon owner.
Berry's objective for the renovations is to create a relaxed, home-like atmosphere so that people will be at ease while at the salon. In the new reception area, antique furniture, paintings, a fireplace, drapery and French doors give the room a sophisticated, cozy feel.
Geneseo junior Ethan Hansen, a customer of the salon, is looking forward to seeing the new features. "It sounds like a nice complement [to] what's already there," he said.
Hanson contrasted the salon to establishments like Super Cuts. "You feel important [at Image Empire] … I would have been okay with waiting a little more," Hansen said.
Part of Berry's vision for the salon is for more men, such as Hansen, to feel comfortable. She said she is "trying to hit every aspect" of the community.
To entice the male population, the salon offers $10 men's cuts on Fridays, and may soon be offering hot shaves as well. "Friday is my new haircut day," Hansen said. He also referred two of his suitemates to the salon, who said they also enjoyed their experience.
For other segments of the Geneseo population, Image Empire offers 25% discounts to all SUNY ladies (with IDs) on Wednesdays and 10% discounts to all SUNY faculty and staff on Tuesdays.
There is free Wi-Fi available for customers on-the-go as well. Further information about services and additional discounts are available on the salon's website, imageempire.com. Salon photos and updates can be viewed on Facebook by searching "Image Empire."