“We have to open,” says Ted Gibson, hair stylist to the stars and co-owner of STARRING by Ted Gibson, which he shares with partner Jason Backe. Following July 20 state guidance, some beauty salons opened with outdoor service only, but most were unable to due to lack of available, safe, clean space. All beauty businesses, most of which are small and independent, have been struggling since the first COVID-19-prompted shutdown in March.
Gibson and Backe — whose clients include Jaime King and Kaitlyn Dever — were among dozens of salon owners who participated in the movement. “We’re not going to see any red carpets anytime soon," says Gibson. "There’s no rent relief for salons. The beauty business is minority and women run. As leaders in the beauty business, we decided to become the salon that spoke up for other small business around the country.”