It’s easy to see why clients of the Stardust Salon in Olympia give rave reviews of the hair and nails salon that also offers a local artists’ gallery. The refurbished airy space features an abundance of natural light in a welcoming setting with a safe vibe where clients can relax.
Experienced hairstylists and co-owners Jessica Frank and Emily Trujillo opened their distinctive salon and creative space in August 2023. Frank says she had walked by the Capitol Way building that now holds their salon and considered it a good location, but also thought it was too big and expensive and so it was a “ridiculous idea.”
But when Frank and Trujillo met and discovered their common beliefs and talents, the two decided to go for it and launch Stardust Salon in that space. “For me, it was finding a place to open a salon with someone with shared values,” says Frank.
After several months of logistical hurdles and creative remodeling, they opened Stardust as more than a hair and nails salon. Stardust Salon is also a “home away from home” designed to celebrate individuality and foster inclusivity for the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. “It was nuts,” says Trujillo of their hard efforts to open the salon, all while working at another salon and taking care of their families. “It was crazy.”
“But I would do it all again,” adds Frank.
Inclusive Stardust Salon is a Vibrant and Safe Haven for Self-Expression in Thurston County
Frank and Trujillo are both California transplants to Thurston County. Frank loves music, vintage fashion, thrifting and antiquing. She is a craft hairdresser and artist who celebrates her clients’ individuality, encouraging them to embrace their natural texture with low maintenance styles. Trujillo specializes in long lasting color and minimal maintenance haircuts. When Trujillo is not behind the chair you can find her in her garden or the woods, or dancing to her favorite tunes. Those shared values, devotion to music and distinctive design ideas underscore why Frank and Trujillo dedicated Stardust Salon as a unique space where self-expression thrives.
Upon entering the salon, you see a gallery of local artists’ work. “We have these beautiful storefront windows,” says Frank. “We want to curate local artists.” The salon is also a stop on the Olympia Arts Walk. The cozy lounge stocked with snacks, drinks, puzzles and books provides a warm setting where patrons can unwind. Hair styling and shampoo stations are bathed in natural light in an exposed brick high-ceilinged area that includes antiques and modern finds, with a David Bowie themed bathroom. And nail technicians in an above loft are available to apply one-of-a-kind designs for clients.
A mix of musical selections play in the background. Trujillo says on “Vinyl Fridays” they encourage clients and friends to bring in their favorite records to share the music that moves them. “I collect a lot of vinyl,” says Frank. “Music is my love.”
Frank and Trujillo say their combined vision crafted a place to build community relationships. They offer hair service colors and cuts from traditional to innovative, and for all ages and genders. “We want to create a space where everyone feels welcome,” says Trujillo. The salon is committed to providing an empowering safe experience for every individual, including with gender-affirming haircuts that allow patrons to leave feeling authentically themselves. “We aim to make Stardust Salon a refuge for everyone, especially during these trying times,” says Frank. “Our gender-affirming haircuts and inclusive services ensure that all individuals feel safe and valued. We celebrate differences and encourage our clients to embrace their authentic selves.”
Trujillo confirms their philosophy. “We believe that haircuts shouldn’t be conformist obligations,” she says. “Instead, they can be an expression of one’s inner beauty. That’s why we foster an inclusive environment that allows everyone, whether you visit the salon regularly or haven’t had a haircut in years, to feel comfortable and celebrated.”
Transparent Pricing Structure Benefits Stardust Salon’s Clients and Stylists
Stardust Salon has nine stylists and two nail artists. The salon’s transparent pricing structure enables clients to know what they will pay for services. Stylists do not accept gratuities. Instead, the salon has flat fees that make it easier for clients to budget. “This takes the burden off the client,” says Trujillo. “It takes the obligation out of it (for a tip). The best tip is a good review.”
This policy benefits the stylists as well. “We make sure our employees earn a living wage,” adds Frank. “The stylists know what they are making.”
Stardust Salon’s Safe Space Builds Stronger Individuals and Communities
The salon proudly participates in efforts building stronger individuals and communities such as The Dresscode Project and Strands for Trans, and provides back-to-school cuts for queer teens. For more information give them a call or visit the Stardust Salon website.
Stardust Salon
111 Capitol Way N., Olympia
360.920.2444
