Caledon East hair salon celebrates 20 years in business

By Zachary Roman

Albina Carusi grew up in Caledon East and always loved its small-town feeling.

She worked in Bolton as a hairstylist for some time before deciding she wanted a change. While she loved the person she worked for, one day she had a client tell her there used to be a hair salon in Caledon East but it closed. Until that point, Carusi had never thought about opening a business, but with a gap in the market, she knew it would be a good time.

Carusi discussed the idea with her husband, and soon they decided to make a deposit on the Caledon East unit where Carusi Hair Salon is now located.

Carusi actually found out she was pregnant the very same day she paid the deposit. Carusi still went through with opening her business, and started it with her niece and two other hairstylists who ventured out with her from their old job.

Things went well business-wise, and Carusi soon learned she was pregnant with twins. When she gave birth, she stepped away from the business for a year and came back to it in good shape thanks to her staff, who she said are amazing.

Carusi Hair Salon wasn't always as big in size as it is now. In 2006, Carusi took over the adjacent unit to her original unit, giving her frontage on Airport Road which was great for her businesses' visibility.

“That opportunity knocked on my door because I didn't want to expand. But it was a good business move to expand because now I have frontage,” said Carusi. “I'm glad I did.”

In 2018, Carusi renovated her salon and gave it a spacious, modern feel. Unfortunately, it wasn't too far after that time that the COVID-19 pandemic hit and hair salons had to be shut down.

It was a tough period for business; however, now she said they are coming back as you can't beat the social experience and service you get when you're at a salon.

On November 4, Carusi held a party at her salon for family, friends, team and customers to celebrate 20 years in business. She hadn't thought it was such a big deal until many people close to her told her it was, so she decided to throw the party. Caledon Mayor Allan Thompson even stopped by to give his congratulations.

“I've been very fortunate, with great support from my family, my husband, my staff, the community — they love to support small businesses,” said Carusi. “People, they'll go out of their way to come and pick up their products from us and support us as a small business rather than get it from Amazon, it's great.”

Carusi said she was extremely happy with the turnout at the party, and said it's a pleasure to be a part of the small business community in Caledon East. She said she's excited for the growth coming to town as it means more potential clients. Carusi added she's always looking for stylists, both as employees or stylists who want to rent a chair.

When reflecting on her business, Carusi said she couldn't have done it without the people of Caledon.

“They're so nice, they're still supporting us and we've been here for 20 years,” said Carusi. “I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for my amazing team.”