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Courtenay salon celebrates 10th anniversary

Staysea Brown has seen a lot of changes in the 10 years since her business, Hairpins Salon, first opened in Courtenay (#4 - 224 6th Street).
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Hairpins Salon proprietor Staysea Brown celebrated the company’s 10th anniversary, Oct. 19. Photo supplied

Staysea Brown has seen a lot of changes in the 10 years since her business, Hairpins Salon, first opened in Courtenay (#4 - 224 6th Street).

Renovations, employees coming and going, a few babies and even going from a partnership to sole proprietor are among the highlights of Hairpins Salon’s first decade.

And, naturally, there have been some lows - mainly, the COVID-19 pandemic.

“These past two years have been extremely difficult for everyone,” said Brown. “As a business owner, I admit there were struggles. But managing the salon during a pandemic has taught me many things. The biggest eye-opener for me was how important community support is, and I will never forget that.”

She said while giving back to the community has always been part of the Hairpins’ business philosophy, the support she has received in the past couple of years has solidified that focus.

“My goal for the next ten years is to continue giving back to the community with fundraisers (recently raised money for a local Indigenous Preschool), charity donations (e.g., YANA), and supporting Courtenay’s downtown businesses.

“It’s always been important to me but even more so now, to support local as much as I can. I believe our community will see a full comeback after this pandemic. The people of the Comox Valley are strong and together we will rise above any challenge.”

Brown said she was raised to understand the importance of a solid work ethic, and credits that understanding for the success of the business.

“From a young age I was taught to work hard and dream big and that is what I have brought forward to Hairpins,” she said. “I believe that energy and dedication has made the salon successful.”

That, and the unwavering support from her parents.

“I want to say a big thank you to my parents for the unconditional love and support they’ve always given me but especially over these past 10 years,” she said.