Add Row 
Add 
From Setbacks to Sustainability: The Commune Salon Story
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, while many businesses faltered, a remarkable story of resilience and innovation emerged from Seal Beach. Commune Salon, co-owned by hairstylists Chelsea Captan and Kristina Smith, opened its doors just weeks before the nationwide lockdown. Despite the odds stacked against them, these enterprising women turned a challenging situation into a flourishing beacon of sustainability and community connection.
Second Chances Amidst Adversity
The timeline of Commune Salon's inception was far from ideal. Opening in February 2020 was a moment of jubilation quickly overshadowed by an unprecedented pandemic, forcing the newly launched salon to halt operations just five weeks later. Unable to qualify for Paycheck Protection Program loans due to being newly established, both owners rallied their community. Clients and fellow stylists came together in solidarity, supporting the salon through its toughest moments. This camaraderie laid the foundation of what Commune stands for today — resilience intertwined with community spirit.
Eco-Consciousness as a Core Value
Central to the salon's mission is its partnership with Green Circle Salons, which allows Commune to recycle and repurpose up to 95% of its waste — a commitment that sets it apart in the beauty industry. “We were shocked by how much waste there was,” said Smith. “Finding Green Circle was a real game changer.” This program repurposes hair color into renewable energy and utilizes hair clippings to create booms for cleaning up oil spills, showcasing a suitable model for eco-awareness in every hair service.
A Model for Environmental Change in Beauty
The beauty industry has often faced criticism for its environmental impact. However, the narrative is shifting. As Daisy Idsinga from Green Circle States, salons like Commune are redefining the beauty experience — blending style with sustainability. Rather than just an avenue for beauty cuts, Commune engages clients in eco-conscious practices. “It’s not just getting your hair done; it’s feeling connected to something bigger,” says Captan.
Creating a Safe and Inclusive Space
Beyond sustainability, Commune stands as an inclusive community hub that prioritizes safety and wellness, resonating deeply with the diverse clientele of Seal Beach. Their genderless pricing model, which bases costs on hair length and time instead of gender, is just one of the many ways the owners ensure a welcoming atmosphere. “We wanted to create a space where kindness matters, especially for the LGBTQIA+ community,” Smith noted.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Commune Salon?
As Commune heads towards its fifth anniversary, the team is not satisfied with merely offering hair services. They aim to pioneer a new standard in the beauty sector, where care for clients and the planet remains intertwined. The vision is ambitious yet evident in their daily operations and interactions with the community.
Supporting Local Entrepreneurship
The inspiring story of Commune is a reminder of the potential for local businesses, even in times of difficulty. By fostering a connection with the community and embracing eco-friendly practices, salons like Commune are changing the way people think about beauty. Any resident of Huntington Beach looking for a meaningful experience that also cares for the environment will find it at Commune Salon, an establishment truly committed to making a difference.
By empowering their clients with knowledge about sustainability and encouraging eco-conscious practices, Commune isn’t just shaping hairstyles; they’re shaping a more eco-friendly future for the beauty industry.
Write A Comment