Knowing all too well how normal it is for kids to be scared of getting a haircut – an experience that often includes tantrums and tears – the new Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids located at 5400 Brodie Lane in Austin is opening January 11.
“Being parents of four kids, we truly understand the needs of parents and children,” said co-owner Donald Avena, who owns the rights to three additional Cookie Cutters salons. “We know that parents want a superior haircut, but more importantly an experience. It’s more than just a haircut—it is about how the kids and parents feel from the moment they step into the salon.”
Prior to opening the Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids salon in Austin with his wife Lisa, Donald worked in the finance industry for over 20 years. Also a Division 1 lacrosse athlete at the University of Massachusetts, Donald also founded the local Lake Travis Girls Lacrosse organization three years ago, which now has over 50 players. Prior to becoming a full-time mother, Lisa has 12 years of experience in finance and high-tech marketing.
Additionally, the salon’s stylists and management will be receiving sensory training from the Autism Society of Central Texas. Cookie Cutters prides itself in its all-inclusive salon experience and cater to the needs of children with extra or sensory needs.
One of the first children-only hair salons in the United States, Cookie Cutters offers an interactive haircut experience that both children and parents won’t soon forget. Upon entering the salons, neon lights lead children to an in-store playground where they can climb and slide. Come time for the haircut, each station on the cutting floor is outfitted with unique fantasy chairs – from race cars to motorcycles, firetrucks to airplanes – as well as televisions for the kids to watch shows or play video games. With a balloon, sucker and a smile at the end of each haircut, the Cookie Cutters experience is designed to keep children coming back again and again.
“We fell in love with the Cookie Cutters concept and its successful business model right away,” said Lisa. “Providing kids in our community with a fun haircut experience is our number one goal.”
Cookie Cutters in Austin is open Monday through Friday from 10 A.M. to 7:00 P.M., Saturday from 9:00 A.M to 5:00 P.M., and Sunday from 11 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. For more information or to book an appointment, please call (512) 358-4040.
Including a franchise fee of $35,000, the total investment to open a single unit Cookie Cutters salon is $90,500 to $261,000. Franchisees can add a second location for an additional $20,000, three or more locations for an additional $10,000 each.
