559 Flaçt Shaols Avenue
Atlanta, Ga. 30316
Neighborhood: East Atlanta Village
OWNERS: Sophia and Reginald Johnson
PHONE: (404) 586-0737
WEBSITE: www.sokaisalonllc.com
Tell us about the meaning behind the salon’s name.
The name means a community of artists devoted to their art. We also call our salon a “spa-lon” which is a spa and a salon mixed together.
How long have you been a salon owner?
Just since November of [2010].
What attracted you to the beauty industry?
I’ve been doing hair since I was 14, so it was just something I fell into. I went to school for electrical engineering and I wanted to do something I’ve always done, so I just fell into doing it.
Are you a hair stylist as well as an owner?
I am, I’ve been a stylist for 14 years.
Do you have plans to franchise your salon?
I would love to! But [since] it’s only been a couple of months since we started, we want to see how it goes and then from there, definitely.
What makes the atmosphere in your salon unique and inviting?
Everything about it is unique. We have a wellness area and we have stylists from all different walks of life and also different backgrounds. … We have sunlight on one side, no sunlight on the other side, the rustic floors, the décor; just everything about it is totally unique. But at the same time it’s inviting and it makes you want to come in and it makes you want to stay and hang out for a while.
You mentioned you were a salon as well as a spa. What are some of the spa services your salon offers?
Some of the spa services include ionic footbaths, an infrared hot sauna, full facials, full body waxing, massages and colonic treatments.
Does your salon only cater to natural hair or relaxed as well?
Oh no, we do everything. From extensions to whatever it is you have on top of your head, we will do whatever you need done.
How many stylists do you have at the salon?
Right now we have about six, but I have room for nine.
