Michelle Stearns, owner of recently opened Maven Beauty on NE Fremont Street near 50th Avenue, said many people wandered in during the salon’s seven-month build-out.
“I was regularly asked why it was taking so long,” said Michelle. “Now those people walk in and say, ‘Oh, now I understand why.’”
The “why” is in the feel-good vibe of the space. Visitors are greeted with a subtle, pleasing scent from an aromatherapy system. The walls are painted a soothing hue that softens the natural light-filled space. Décor is minimal but welcoming; lighting is just right. To Michelle, there’s a reason for this attention to detail.
“Maven means ‘expert,’ and our entire team embodies that value.”
That Maven hair care team, comprised of five hairstylists, all participate in regular continuing education courses in their fields, including state-of-the-art hair coloring, cutting, and extensions techniques.
“We have long-term relationships with our customers,” said Michelle. “Being the best we can be is important to maintaining those relationships.”
Elana Scharff is on the team as a medical aesthetician — she’s a nurse practitioner injector who offers Botox for beauty and migraine pain treatment as well as a host of other services.
Prior to Maven, the women worked together at Michelle’s salon in Northwest Portland. Then the pandemic hit, bringing challenges that included an increase in crime — worrisome for the team and their clients. Those conditions took the group to Beaumont-Wilshire.
“It feels safe and family-friendly here,” said Michelle. This neighborhood was also familiar to several of the stylists — three attended Grant High School.
The Maven team has worked together for over 20 years.
“We’re best friends as well as co-workers,” said Michelle. “Most importantly, we have a collective passion for the business.”
Find Maven Beauty at 4941 NE Fremont. To book an appointment visit vagaro.com/mavenbeauty2.