An old space was renovated this summer to provide a new home to some of the city’s hair stylists and spa specialists.
Located on Campus Court in what was the Abilene Educational Supply, Pura Vida Salon and Spa opened its doors to existing clients on July 9. A grand opening on July 17 celebrated the new business and opened reservations to residents as well as faculty, staff and students.
The salon houses eight stylists, many of which had been working previously in Abilene and surrounding areas, and intends to soon add a ninth. The full-service spa also offers pedicures, manicures, facials and massages.
Pura Vida aims to become more than a simple salon and spa though.
“We, as a team, got together and decided what was important to us,” said lead designer Cindy Seabourn.
What the team established was a mission statement that not only promotes a welcoming and exceptional environment, but also an experience that “enhances the spirit, body and soul.”
“Our goal is to provide a place where people really feel welcome,” Seabourn said. “And focus on not just outer, but inner body as well.”
Toby Vernay, Pura Vida’s director of education, has been charged with helping to keep the stylist’s up to date on trends and Seabourn says the staff has been “constantly learning new techniques.”
With school beginning, Seabourn says a few students have already made their way in for an appointment but one student in particular has been involved with Pura Vida from the start.
Kelsie Pinckard, senior graphic design major from Lewisville, began working on Pura Vida’s interior design in January.
After planning for months, she was excited to see her design in action at the grand opening.
“It was exciting to see people enjoying the space after pouring my entire last semester into it,” she said.
Pinckard, who applied for the position through Business Services, began her career at ACU as an interior design major before switching to graphic design. Despite the switch, interior design has remained a passion and she helped to redesign both the Edwards Hall lobby and a study room in Nelson Hall.
After talking with Pura Vida, Pinckard began working on a sleek, welcoming and gender neutral plan for the space.
“We went for an upscale and chic look,” she said, “but also something really inviting.”
Pinckard is glad to see her design in use and Seabourn looks forward to how the salon grows as the school year begins.
Students can reserve an appointment with Pura Vida through their website or front desk and also the concierge desk. Many services are available at a 10 percent discount with the use of any college I.D.
