After eight years of learning the salon business as a stylist and manager and developing her own ideas about how a successful salon is operated, Amy Roland opened her own AVEDA-exclusive salon, A Roland, in New Cumberland. “We’ve created a relaxing, homey environment where guests can come to take a break from their busy day and to look and feel their best,” says Roland.

The full-service, unisex salon uses AVEDA products exclusively, a line of hair and beauty products that strives to use sustainable, plant-based alternatives to replace petrochemicals. Their products, including hair color that is 99 percent naturally derived, are paraben-free, sodium lauryl sulfate-free and use raw herbal ingredients and essential oils that are 90 percent organic. Their primary manufacturing facility in Blaine, Minnesota, is 100 percent certified wind powered, and uses up to 100 percent postconsumer recycled content in its packaging. “We care about the integrity of our guests’ hair,” affirms Roland. “There are no unwanted ingredients in their [AVEDA] products, and hair feels better and looks more natural.”

Guests get more than a cut, color and style at A Roland; they get a mind/body experience that engages all senses. Soothing music drifts throughout the salon, guests are served herbal tea and filtered water, and complimentary head massages are given with shampoos. Aestheticians provide facials, body care and body waxing services that include rituals such as aromatherapy and massages to arms, upper neck, hands and feet. Men are invited to experience the A Roland difference, too. A barber is on staff, and soon men will be able to receive hot shaves while watching television.

According to Roland, people love coming to her salon because of the customer service. Her staff of certified experts helps create an inviting atmosphere where guests are put at ease as soon as they walk through the door. “Everything is taken care of for our clients. They arrive, are immediately made comfortable and then we take care of them for hours,” Roland adds.

Location: 516 Bridge St., New Cumberland. First-time customers receive $20 off AVEDA customized color and hair cut, and $15 off an AVEDA customized facial. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 717-695-4425 or visit ARolandSalonStudio.com.

Nancy Somera is frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.