SNIP-ITS KIDS HAIR SALON TO OPEN IN SOUTH AUSTIN
Grand Opening to Help Support Children with Autism in Greater Austin Area
AUSTIN, TX (Dec. 15, 2010) Snip-its (www.snipits.com), one of the country’s fastest-growing chains of children’s hair salons, is opening in South Austin the weekend of Jan. 21. The salon will be located in the Southpark Meadows shopping center near Borders Books, and will offer children’s haircuts, spa services, birthday parties, entertainment, prizes, natural hair products, accessories, toys, and more. As part of its grand opening, Snip-its South Austin will donate 10% of its proceeds to the Autism Speaks Greater Austin Chapter. The money raised will help fund research for – and increase awareness of – autism disorders, and help support families and children with autism in the area. Grand opening events will take place Friday, Jan. 21 – Sunday, Jan. 23. Children will enjoy $9.99 haircuts (with a coupon), face painting, sand art, treats, and more.
The Snip-its Corporation partnered with the national Autism Speaks organization to create a haircutting guide for stylists and parents of children with autism. All of Snip-its’ stylists are trained to work with children with autism and other special needs. In addition to donating 10% of its profits to the Autism Speaks Greater Austin Chapter, Snip-its South Austin will host an open house for the local organization’s members, with activities catered specifically for the children, and will offer special salon hours for haircuts and other services on an on-going basis.
First launched in 1995 by founder Joanna Meiseles, Snip-its has since been revolutionizing the hair care industry by creating a branded entertainment concept designed to untangle the hair-care challenges of children. Currently, Snip-its has more than 60 locations in 26 U.S. states. The South Austin location will be the second salon for owners James and Lisa Lopez, who purchased the Snip-its Round Rock salon two years ago.
“We are firm believers in the Snip-its concept,” said Lisa Lopez. “It’s about creating an environment where kids and parents feel comfortable and superior service is top priority. We selected South Austin as our second location because we saw a need in this market for a salon that caters specifically to children. We are excited about the opening and hope that we can give back to this community in the process.”
A Cut Above the Rest
With life-size characters, music and games, Snip-its has turned what was once a tedious chore into an amazing adventure, filled with fun, games and excitement. Upon entering the Snip-its salon, parents and children step into a magical cartoon world of adventure characterized by floor-to-ceiling cartoon murals and splashy vibrant colors.
In the waiting area, they can enjoy the Snip-its show, featuring a whimsical cast of cartoon characters or visit the retail space to browse the natural hair care products, hair and fashion accessories, and toys. Each cutting station includes a special chair for parents to sit close at hand, and an entertainment station featuring custom computer games and activities for the little ones. Upon completion of the haircut, children insert a lock of hair into the “Snip-its Magic Box” for a prize. Snip-its South Austin also offers a “baby’s first haircut” package, which includes a haircut certificate, lock of hair and commemorative photo.
It’s My Party…
In addition to hair care, the South Austin location will offer spa services, such as manicures, pedicures and facials, and birthday parties. Children will be able to select from one of three fun-filled-themed parties, including:
- Glamour Party – The birthday girl and up to 14 special guests glam it up in feathers, sequins and sparkles, complete with nails, make-up and hair.
- Spa Party – Pampered is the key word here. The birthday girl and a maximum of nine guests wear pink VIP robes for an afternoon of cucumber facials and their choice of either a mini manicure or mini pedicure.
- Hollywood Party – This is for the little star who belongs on the red carpet, completely surrounded by paparazzi after they and their 14-person birthday entourage get the movie-star makeover with hair, nails and make-up.
All parties include invitations; cupcakes; a kid-friendly, age-appropriate craft; and party favors for guests to take home.
“It’s about so much more than just getting your hair cut,” said Lopez. “This is the kind of place where memories are made.”
About Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is North America's largest autism science and advocacy organization. Since its inception in 2005, Autism Speaks has committed more than $142.5 million to research through 2014 and develop innovative new resources for families. The organization is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. In addition to funding research, Autism Speaks also supports the Autism Treatment Network, Autism Genetic Resource Exchange and several other scientific and clinical programs. Notable awareness initiatives include the establishment of the annual United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 and an award-winning “Learn the Signs” campaign with the Ad Council which has received more than $249 million in donated media. Autism Speaks' family resources include the Autism Video Glossary, a 100 Day Kit for newly-diagnosed families, a School Community Tool Kit and a community grant program. Autism Speaks has played a critical role in securing federal legislation to advance the government's response to autism, and has successfully advocated for insurance reform to cover behavioral treatments in 23 states thus far, with bills pending in an additional 14 states. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 80 cities across North America. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit www.autismspeaks.org.
About Snip-its
Snip-its, originally headquartered in Natick, Mass., was conceived by creator and founder Joanna Meiseles in 1995. In 2010, Snip-its relocated its headquarters to Eden Prairie, Minn., under the direction of President and CEO, James George, who has been involved in the franchise and hair salon industry for the past three decades. The five original Massachusetts locations have been joined by seven more locations for a total of 12 in Massachusetts and nearly 20 locations in New England. The chain has expanded nationally to approximately 60 salons in 26 states and continues to offer numerous franchise opportunities throughout the U.S. For further information, visit the website at www.snipits.com or call toll-free 877-SNIP-ITS.