Blush Brings Main Street Feel to the Ridge

Angel Stranieri, 25, grew up in Roxborough and knows the Ridge's reputation. She says residents deserve better when it comes to a hair salon.

"I want to give a Main Street or downtown feel without all of those prices. I want to maintain that Roxborough feel but also make it high end," she said.

Stranieri attended the former St. Lucy's Catholic School and graduated from Archbishop Carroll High School in Radnor. After beauty school, she worked in Wayne and Chestnut Hill. She began working at the former David's Hair Studio last year. Owner David Koneski decided to take a backseat on the business end, and Stranieri switched roles with him.

So while the name Blush Salon and its interior are new to Roxborough, Stranieri has a leg up on a traditional new business.

"I was here for a year. I grew up here. David has been here. So we already have a great client base," she said.

Located at the same storefront, 6212 Ridge Ave., the hair salon received an interior makeover while rebranding. Blush gutted some of its interior, replaced the lighting, added a new exposed window, redid the floors and repainted. 

Blush Salon strives to walk that tightrope between an upscale salon and one with affordable prices, Stranieri said.

"Growing up in the neighborhood, I never went to Main Street, because I didn't think I could afford it. So I want people to know they can get that same quality on the Ridge," she said.

Stranieri plans on making perks regularly scheduled to engage patrons. Weekly, Blush will feature Wednesday wine night and Saturday morning mimosas, in addition to complimentary coffee.

With Blush, Stranieri said she hopes to help with the continued revitalization of Ridge Avenue. to open and for Roxborough to welcome new entrepreneurs.

"If businesses can start revamping the area, it will bring a nicer crowd in. Ridge Avenue has so much potential. It can be a place that has everything you need," she said.

At 25, she said the dream of owning her own business came suddenly, but she's ready.

"It's not real to me. It hasn't sunk in. I'm excited to bring a fresh, new experience to here," she said.

In the coming weeks, people can also support Blush by voting for it on phl 17's Philly Hotlist.

Blush plans on holding a grand opening in mid-August. Additionally, all new clients can receive a 20 percent discount. Returning clients can participate in the referral program.

For more information, visit Blush Salon's Facebook page.