Christina Sutton, new owner of Xpressions Hair Studio in Cullowhee, always wanted to be a hair stylist but had trouble following her heart at first. She began her college career as an English education major but by the end of her freshman year, she decided that teaching was not for her.
“It was always in the back of my mind that I wanted to do hair and be a hairdresser,” said Sutton.
After her freshman year of college, Sutton came back to Jackson County on a mission to become a hairstylist. She enrolled in the Southwestern Community College’s cosmetology program and began her journey to eventually own a salon.
“I always wanted to own my own salon, but I knew it would take some time. When I was in school I knew that [Xpressions Hair Studio] would be a great spot, but it wasn’t for sale,” said Sutton.
Sutton worked in different salons around the Sylva/Cullowhee area for nearly five years until a booth opened up at Xpressions Hair Studio. She pursued it until she was hired, not knowing that just over a year later the salon would be up for sale.
“It was just perfect and thank God that I came here, because I have been here a year and a half and it came up for sale,” said Sutton.
Once the for-sale sign went up, Sutton jumped on the opportunity and purchased the salon.
Sutton is happy with the salon as it is currently, but she does have plans to do some minor renovations to the interior as well as hire other stylists and a nail tech. She also spoke about painting the walls and even removing some walls to make room for new staff and to open up the front window so that passer byers will know that it is a salon.
“A lot of people don’t even know this shop is here. A senior came in the other day and said that she just found out that it was a salon,” said Sutton.
Sutton has enlisted the help of the Small Business Center at Western Carolina University and her cosmetology instructor at Southwestern Community College to aid her toward success as a first-time business owner. The other part of her success will come from her clients.
“I like being here at WCU because it is like a community, and there are a lot of resources and help,” said Sutton.
Sutton’s edgy style and charming personality paired with the contemporary décor of the salon makes Xpressions Hair Studio the hip place to be.
Whether you are a student, professor or a local, Sutton has the knowledge and skill to give you a whole new look, if you so desire, or just maintain your current style.
Xpressions Hair Studio takes walk-ins with any kind of hair so if you need a cut and style, a color touch-up or a brand new doo, stop by to see Christina Sutton. She will “doo” you up right!
Xpressions Hair Studio is located at 714 Centennial Drive on the campus of Western Carolina University and can be contacted at 828-506-6983.
