Hair Salon Weathers “Covid Storm” Celebrates 4 Years in Business

The relentless impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has cast a formidable shadow over countless small businesses, particularly those reliant on close personal interactions to deliver their services. Amidst these trials, Invercargill’s Retro Hair D-Zine proudly commemorates its fourth anniversary, all the while acknowledging the formidable challenges that Covid-19 cast upon its path.

Late in 2019, the baton of ownership at Retro Hair D-Zine changed hands, with Shelley Corbett passing the torch. Little did anyone foresee the impending storm of Covid-19. As the pandemic unfolded, Tara Blackmun took charge, leading the salon through the trying times. Upheld by the steadfast support of the salon’s faithful patrons.

Navigating the nuances of close-contact services in a socially distanced world presented Retro Hair D-Zine with a unique conundrum. “The demands of social distancing and lockdowns placed considerable strain on accommodating our regular flow of clients,” Tara said. “Our clientele was very understanding in the restructuring of appointment slots around the Covid-19 guidelines.”

The response to these hurdles was marked by the remarkable understanding of the salon’s loyal clientele, who demonstrated flexibility in adapting to the evolving appointment structures necessitated by Covid-19 guidelines.

“It was tiring working around the lockdowns, not really knowing when and if a lockdown will happen, and when a lockdown will end so we can rebook our clients.”

“There was also a lot of anxiety around catching Covid, and being unable to continue to do clients, as we were balancing to catch up on appointments” Tara said.

The salon industry’s reliance on pre-bookings accentuated the complexity of managing lockdowns, cancellations, and rescheduling efforts. The perpetual anxiety of contracting the virus while endeavouring to fulfil overdue appointments added an extra layer of challenge.

Amidst the chaos, Retro Hair D-Zine seized a chance to transform. During moments of respite, the salon underwent a rejuvenation, resulting in a space that patrons now describe as a sanctuary. “The positive feedback from our clients since the revamp has been heartening,” Tara revealed. “It’s a comfortable warm space, a home away from home.”

Today, as Retro Hair D-Zine commemorates its fourth year in business, the celebration is steeped in a profound sense of triumph over adversity. The narrative unfurls as a testament to the salon’s resilience, and Tara Blackmun extends her gratitude to the unwavering clientele who stood steadfast during the tumultuous years. “Seeing familiar faces walk in, and the boost of confidence they leave with, that’s what keeps us going,” Tara Blackmun shared with a smile.

The story of Retro Hair D-Zine is one of adaptability and community support, a reminder that even in uncertain times, beauty and strength can flourish. The salon’s journey serves as an inspiration to small businesses everywhere, showing that with passion and dedication, any storm can be weathered.

Retro Hair D-zine is located at 160 Centre Street and is open Tuesday to Saturday. For bookings phone: (03) 216 9875.

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