Detroit Shoreway resident Erin Gargiulo used to pass through the Gordon Square Arts District on her way to work each day and think, "I wish someone would open a hair salon, because then I would work here."

Last fall, when the Detroit Shoreway Community Development Organization (DSCDO) launched the Charter One Business Plan Competition and she saw an opportunity to create her own business, Gargiulo decided to go for it. Next month, Honeycomb Salon and Art Gallery will open for business.

"I really wanted to be a part of the arts district," says Gargiulo, who is opening the salon with a business partner who does not wish to be named until it opens. "I wanted to be in a neighborhood that works together and supports each other."

The grant that Honeycomb received from the business plan competition will go towards building out the space and keeping rent low during the startup phase. The program is being supported by Charter One Bank and Councilman Matt Zone.

Honeycomb, which will eventually employ up to four stylists, is currently under construction in the former offices of Near West Theatre. DSCDO has been working on plans to add more retail to the strip, and the recent addition of several pop-up shops combined with Yellowcake's announcement of a permanent, expanded brick-and-mortar location have added to the district's retail offerings.

Men's cuts will start at $25, women's cuts at $45. Honeycomb will also offer hair coloring and haircuts for kids. Eventually, the duo plan to hire a manicurist, too.

Gargiulo and her partner plan to curate the artwork in the salon themselves, with help from clients and friends in the art world. They hope to host special events at Honeycomb in collaboration with the 78th Street Studios and 1point618 Gallery.

"We wouldn't have found an offer like this in Ohio City or Tremont; they're making a big play at getting the businesses they want here," says Gargiulo. "Everyone's been asking for a salon, I guess. It's going to be wonderful."

Source: Erin Gargiulo
Writer: Lee Chilcote