Asst. Publisher
Foreclosures up.
Unemployment up.
And, for one area company, business is up and growing. In a time of gloom and doom, Glitz Salon offers a ray of hope and good news.
They recently purchased a home, located off of Baldwin Road (between Seymour Lake and Stanton Roads), as their business headquarters.
The 7,500 square foot home sits on five acres in Brandon Township and is currently being used for employee training. Owner Cherie Barnett, however, has plans to make the estate a destination spot for not only staff and clients, but the community.
This November, Glitz will celebrate its 20th anniversary. Barnett said she now employs over 100 people. She started her business in Clarkston, then opened locations in Rochester, Orion Township and another in downtown Lake Orion.
So, what is the secret of her success? How did Barnett go from one salon to purchasing a 7,500 square foot mansion with indoor swimming pool, ballroom and elevator?
‘Take very good care of your staff, and your staff, in return, will take care very good care of you,? Barnett, a Goodrich resident, said. ‘In our business, the business is the staff. They know how much they are valued. I work on making sure their schedules work around their life. This makes for a great work environment. Simple old-fashioned respect goes a long way.?
The new headquarters is used for Glitz corporate meetings and client events. The mansion also features an outdoor veranda on two levels. Always thinking of the future, Barnett said the mansion will eventually be used for weddings and events.
‘Brides wanting to host local, affordable weddings can do it here,? she said.
Barnett, while growing a successful business, has realized the importance of giving back to the community. They have hosted fundraisers for local causes, people, schools, and churches, as well as helping Children’s Hospital in Detroit.
Glitz raises more than $30,000 each year during their Annual Cut-A-Thon in July benefitting the Children’s Leukemia Foundation of Michigan.
‘We all strive to give back to the community at Glitz,? said Barnett. ‘And, purchasing this estate was the perfect way to give back to my staff and the community. Our stylists are calling this a second ‘home.? We feel privileged to be able to offer it back to the community as a celebration house.?
For more information, visit their website, www.glitzsalons.com.