Last fall the term “hygge” (pronounced hoo-ga) took the world by storm. This Danish word, used to describe a mood of coziness and contentment, is the perfect antidote to what ails us in our fast-paced world. At Lake Salon in McHenry, owner Laura Clapsaddle and her talented staff have incorporated this feeling of hygge into several of their services.
Hygge is all about ambiance — soft lighting and cozy feelings — a way to give yourself a mental break from life. Laura and Salon manager Emily Germond, along with stylists Becky Riley and Richard DeBerry have transformed the salon into just such a place. Their casually elegant setting invites clients to come in, sit a moment, enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee, and most of all — relax.
Lake Salon’s signature hygge experience is their new Hygge pedicure — a wonderful treat for mind, body and toes. Pedicures at Lake Salon are done in a private area with state of the art chairs, perfect lighting and soft music. Hygge is about embracing all of the senses so clients are offered a complimentary beverage upon their arrival and once seated are given a deliciously scented (and warmed!) neck wrap from Deep Creek Lavender Farm while their feet enjoy a warm soak. The massage seats are equipped with warmers and guests are even provided with cozy blankets to cuddle into while your feet and calves are pampered. Diffusers pump wonderfully scented essential oils into the air and guests can lean back, watch TV, read a magazine or just rest. “These pedicures are so relaxing, we’ve even had clients fall asleep,” says Emily. “We know we’ve achieved full relaxation when that happens,” she smiles. In addition to a beautiful polish color, the pedicure features paraffin wax or mud bath, sugar scrub, cuticle and callus care and calf massage. Guests will leave feeling pampered and perfect.
The hygge principle can be applied to other salon experiences as well. Clients enjoying one of the signature facials can also enjoy spa music, salt lamps, wonderful scents to any of their three facial services — The 45 minute Basic Facial which includes cleansing, steaming, exfoliation, mask and facial massage. Guests can upgrade to a 60 minute Spa Facial which extends the facial and adds in a hand massage or to the Ultimate Facial, a 75 minute treat which also includes collagen Ampule and blackhead treatment. Other upgrades are also available.
Lake Salon offers hair services for the entire family — specializing in cuts, color, restorative treatments as well as Brazilian blowouts, manicures, pedicures and waxing. The salon also offers lay down and stand-up tanning beds and is the only salon in the lake area to offer spray tanning – perfect when you need some color before a big event.
Where Lake Salon has made their mark, however, is in their wedding services. Part of their renovation included creating a Bridal Suite, a private place for an entire bridal party to come in, relax, bring in treats and get ready for the big day in a fun, stress-free atmosphere. In addition to stylists Richard and Becky, Laura has networked with a group of free-lance stylists and makeup artists in the area that can come in and provide specialized services. In Addition to gorgeous updo’s and nails, Lake Saloon is the only salon in the area to offer airbrush makeup services.
If the bridal party doesn’t want to travel on the big day, Laura and her team will come to you! “We have done weddings everywhere from private homes to the larger venues in the area,” explains Emily. “We’re happy to accommodate the bride however we can.” They are currently booking dates into 2020 although a few last minute spots are open for later this year.
The Bridal Suite is also available to rent out for private parties. They can host up to 20 people for manicure, style parties and more. One of their more popular attractions is their Little Spa Parties, pampering for young girls as a fun treat for birthday parties, special events and more. You can bring in your own food and drink for these events or purchase wine and delicious cheese trays from next door at Black Bear Wine & Words, also owned by Laura and her husband Barry.
In addition to their professional staff, Lake Salon uses only the highest quality products. They use Kenra high performance products in the salon, Infinity Sun Spray Tan and CND nail products.
“Our goal at Lake Salon is to create an elegant, soothing atmosphere. We use essential oils, lighting and more to make your next visit a retreat as opposed to another ‘to do’ on your list. Hygge is about enjoying the moment and we’re here to help make that possible if even just for an hour,” says Emily.
Want to try a little hygge for yourself? Lake Salon is pairing with Cashmere Clothing for the Women’s Association of Mountain Maryland (WAMM) next Networking Happy Hour on Thursday, October 5th. They will present a fashion and makeup show that evening. The event takes place upstairs at Black Bear Tavern. Check out WAMM’s Facebook page for details.
Lake Salon is located at The Fort in McHenry (below Black Bear Restaurant and Tavern) and is open Tuesday – Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM with other hours available by advance appointment. While they do their best to accommodate walk-ins, appointments are highly recommended. Book your next appointment today and enjoy hygge for yourself!