By Lauri Lee
Northside News
I heard about Chrysalis at 255 N. Sherman Avenue the way most people do, by word of mouth. “I find my business is more sustainable if I don’t advertise and leave it to my customers to share about my shop,” said owner Julia McConahay. An accomplished hairstylist and wellness practitioner, she left a conventional salon environment due to the development of intense allergies within that setting. “My business has grown organically through the sharing of like-minded people who love our vibe. I welcome folks to check out our inclusive self-care sanctuary where I encourage them to become the best version of themselves.
This is a unique studio space which provides chemically conscious hair services that are allergen aware and natural self-care. The retail clothing is preloved retro, vintage, and unique clothing, that I consider to be human clothes with no gender specific labeling. There’s an eclectic assortment of skirts, tops, dresses, shoes, jackets and accessories. I feature locally made wares and artful treasures for those who appreciate aesthetic value and quirky gifts. Everything here is good for people in some way — even new shoe laces are good for you. We also sell healthy gluten-free snacks and beverage coolers.
The hair studio is the anchor of the space, but people get much more than a haircut when they come here. I consider it to be a whole person place for special hair needs. When folks get married, I might do their hair and their music since I’m a professional musician of contemporary violin. After hours, sometimes we have rehearsal time and record music in the studio.
A lot of people run into their friends when they shop here. The shop has been a sort of community hub since I moved the shop here in 2018 from the First Street/Atwood Avenue location where I had been since 2012. On Sundays we have an outdoor courtyard marketplace pop-up from 10 am–2 pm to feature local makers who create functional art. Last year, we featured seven artists, and there will be more this year. There’s a music hour for kids 10 and under from 11 am–noon though it’s family oriented, so even the older siblings enjoy it.”
The shop hours are Monday 10 am–3 pm, Tuesday–Friday 12-7 pm and Saturday 12-4 pm. Salon services can be booked at chrysalishairandbody.com or by calling 608-217-1741.
