25 years
Mane Street Haircutters marks anniversary
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

''For Jim and Laurie Weiss, the number 25 has been very significant this past year. It symbolizes not only the years they have been married but also the silver anniversary of their salon.

Married in October 1981, the newlywed couple opened Mane Street Haircutters in June 1982. Much like any relationship, their story is complete with ups and downs.

They fell in love doing what they love - styling hair. As business goes, they found themselves in transition, leaving the salon where they met. A longtime friend offered Jim a job at a salon. Then they were approached by one of Jim's former employers, who informed them of an open space at 6814 Main St., near Transit Road, and weeks later Mane Street Haircutters was founded.

"Having each other as a partner has been the key," Laurie Weiss said about their success.

She added that they are opposites who complement each other, with Jim being the one who "jokes around" and herself the business type.

Describing salons in Western New York as "a dime a dozen," Weiss is proud of the longevity of Mane Street Haircutters, still at its original location. In some cases, the staff is now cutting the hair of a third generation.

"Client relationships are especially important," she said "I think we have been in business for so long because we are family-based. Our sons, Darren and Jim, have also helped out and worked with us."

Weiss added that the salon knows the needs of the clients and caters to men, women and children with a "down-to-earth attitude."

The staff of four, in addition to Jim and Laurie, has more than 32 years of experience at Mane Street Haircutters. Weiss said she believes that consistency in employees is a symbol of a good business where people enjoy working.

Stylists Lynn Kinmartin, 22 years, and Lisa Mayle, 15 years, have been with Mane Street Haircutters the longest, followed by Sherry Cortese and Stacy Karpinski.

"A reflection of how you treat your employees is on the business, the clients," she said.

At Mane Street Haircutters the staff works as a team, Weiss said, adding that the business doesn't rent chairs so the staff doesn't "compete" for clients.

"We all work with each other, which suits the clients' schedule. Number one is what's best for the client. We take pride in accurate scheduling, trying our best to stay on time," she said.

Mane Street Haircutters is a full-service salon offering manicures and pedicures, coloring, waxing and hair replacement for men.

"Being a busy salon we always try to keep up," Weiss said about the training and the interior.

Three months ago Mane Street Haircutters was given a "face-lift" and just six years ago had a renovation.

Its partnership with Goldwell offers professional hair products at the salon.

The stylists continue to education themselves through monthly courses.

Looking back on the past 25 years, Weiss said she is grateful for where she and her husband are today.

"I wake up and never take anything for granted. We appreciate every client here," she said.

Weiss added that consistency has meant longevity, by offering clients what they need at competitive prices.

Mane Street Haircutters is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday; and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 634-8448.