Published: 12/3/2020 2:42:41 PM
Modified: 12/3/2020 2:42:31 PM
GREENFIELD — The building that housed a mom-and-pop flower shop at 284 High St. for 71 years is once again home to a small business headed by a local entrepreneur.
Jessica Shippee opened Lavish The Salon at the new location last week, having previously operated out of 30 Chapman St. for four years.
“It’s just amazing,” she said. “(The building’s) been such a staple of Greenfield, so it’s great to keep on going as another local business.”
Sigda Flowers and Gifts closed in December 2019 and two of the floral designers, Michele Pratt and Annette McLean, purchased the customer list and phone number. They leased the building temporarily, rebranding as Country Garden Florals and Gifts. They now operate at 70 French King Highway.
Shippee, 37, said Lavish The Salon’s main room has been renovated and there is a space she plans to rent out. She purchased the building over the summer.
Shippee, who grew up in Vernon, Vt., said she has been a stylist for 17 years. She said the holiday season is always her busiest time of year. Even though get-togethers are expected to be smaller this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, people still like to get prettied up toward the end of the year.
“I had always just loved playing with hair as a child, with Barbie dolls and my sister,” she said about the work. “I love working with the people. It’s a great job. Everybody needs you.”
Shippee, who has lived in Greenfield for 13 years, said Lavish The Salon has six employees, including herself. The staff includes stylists, an esthetician and a physician’s assistant from Berkshire Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Center who offers Botox and filler services.
Shippee said the salon’s hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. The salon can be reached at 413-773-3610.