Betty Stevens Cosmetology Institute in Florence closes their doors after 56 years in business and many community members are not ready to see this place go.
A former student at the school said she has grown here as a stylist, and is fortunate for all the lessons the salon has taught her, “The clients you meet here 5 years later you always remember them, some that stand out to you because you them every week.” said Chandler Harrison.
Each stylist had a different journey while working at the institute, and many tell News 13 there’s one reason they have stuck around for over 10 years.
“You meet so many wonderful people. You do so many things for those who are less fortunate. A haircut doesn’t cost a million dollars so it’s just about taking the time to give professional service, and making someone happy and beautiful,” said stylist of 19 years, Lawanda Davis.
Over decades they have created relationship and memories with dozens of customers,” You know they’ve been coming here 30, 40 years. Every moment is special no matter what age,” said one of its owners, Rita Buck.
Loyal clients said they’ll continue to follow wherever the journey takes them. “I hate to see it go but you know life goes on, things change, but I think we left our mark. 56 years is a long time so I think we’ve done great here and we won’t be forgotten,” said Davis.
Buck said she’s looking for someone to buy the building to start another cosmetology school or use the building as a salon.