A new salon in International Plaza, opened by French women Geraldine Jousseau and Estelle Mattingly, takes clients on a trip to Paris.
Parisian paintings decorate the walls, Carambar candy sits on the counter, romantic piano music plays through the speakers, espresso is served in tiny French-themed mugs and every client is served a macaron.
“Geraldine was a hair stylist in Paris and she messaged me saying she wanted to open a salon in Tampa,” manager Jessica Rivera said.
Rivera met Jousseau through their mutual friend, Mattingly (who is also from Paris), who has known Rivera for 11 years. Jousseau ended up moving to Tampa to open the salon.
“We want to make sure our clients have a great time in an elegant environment,” Rivera said.
Clients sit in massage chairs while their hair is washed, their faces cloaked in a steamed towel.
“You’re going to get pampered no matter what,” Rivera said. “If you’re busy, you can sit in the massage chair for two minutes or if you have time, we’ll leave it on longer. We’re the only place in the mall that has massages.”
The stylists use the Schwarzkopf brand which has products for “literally every hair type”.
“We want to have options on everything and cater to a diverse cliental,” Rivera said.
Le Studio Paris has been open for two months, but will held a grand opening on July 22 from noon to 6 p.m. at 2223 N WestShore Blvd., located on the lower level of the mall near Nordstrom.
During the celebration, the first 100 guests received swag bags, DJ Sean provided the music and French appetizers made by Mattingly who is also a chef, were served.
For more information, call (813) 371-1283 or visit lsptampa.com.
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