Focus On: Marla’s Salon Retreat and Gift Shoppe

By Jennifer Tanner
The Valdosta Daily Times

September 10, 2006 02:17 am

— VALDOSTA — Marla was a tiny baby, born three months early to Heather Tison. She fought for her life, won the battle and is now a healthy toddler. Little Marla is an inspiration to her mother and grandmother, Kathryn Schenck — an inspiration to keep dreams alive despite adversity. This is why the mother/daughter combo named their new business after the sweet baby.
Marla’s Salon Retreat and Gift Shoppe is located in a gorgeous place on Jane Street. Owner Kathryn and manager Heather, along with a team of helpers, renovated the old home into a stylish and comfortable facility with multiple rooms for providing the business’ many different services.
The foyer is used for client intake with styling rooms to the right and left. Past the left room, which also features a sitting area, is a sunroom where clients can enjoy manicures and pedicures. Up a beautiful winding staircase is the tanning bed area and the gift shop.
Marla’s team of stylists, nail techs and planners offers hair cuts, color, perms/relaxers, high and low lights, facials, waxing, nail services, gifts and wedding and event planning. Retail includes a variety of hair, nail, skin and tanning products as well as floral arrangements and design, home decor, jewelry and unique gift items.
In addition to the multitude of services and products, customers enjoy the friendly atmosphere in the elegantly decorated old house. Kathryn expects to add even more retail items as clients request specific products and services. She hopes to add massage therapy soon.
Marla’s is a dream come true for Kathryn and Heather who have always wanted to combine their closely related skills into a family-owned and operated business. Both have a history in cosmetology and business-related fields, and Kathryn’s experience in floral and event planning adds a extra touch to complete the business concept.
Inspired by a child, this mother/daughter team is working to serve the people of Valdosta and succeed as a full-service salon and gift shop. Marla’s battle for life will now not only touch her family, it will touch every client that the new salon will see.


Q: What is Marla’s?

A: It is a full service salon and gift shop. We are a one-stop shoppe for all your hair, skin, nail and tanning services, with the added convenience of a gift shop and wedding planning services.

Q: Why did you chose this location?

A: We loved the homey feel of the older building. It has a nostalgic, warm feeling to it and our customers are very happy with the relaxed atmosphere. We are conveniently located near the downtown area, VSU and South Georgia Medical Center.

Q: What is your experience?

A: Heather: Master of Cosmetology from Valdosta Technical College as well as degrees in marketing and customer service. Previously worked at Kent’s Styling Salon. Kathryn: Degrees in Cosmetology, Accounting and Bookkeeping; 18 years in banking, experience at attorney’s and insurance offices; 25 years in floral, wedding and event planning.

Q: Prices?

A: Competitive.

Q: Discounts?

A: Military and student discounts are offered.

Q: What are your most popular services?

A: Color and highlights.

Q: What expectations do you have for Marla’s?

A: Continued growth. We will strive to be the best salon in Valdosta.

Q: What should people know?

A: We aim to keep our customers satisfied with every service or product they purchase. We want them to be at ease and enjoy their visits with us.

Marla’s Salon Retreat and Gift Shoppe
Owner: Kathryn Schenck
Manager: Heather Tison
Phone: (229) 245-7737
Location: 409 E. Jane St.
Hours: 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, or by appointment.

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