When shopping for gifts, please don’t forget about small businesses! Local shops and small scale businesses not only have unique gifts to offer, but you are helping a family put food on the table or send a child to piano lessons.
Although the places I’m listing are located in my area, there are similar ones across the country that would value your business. Some of my fave beauty-related picks are:
Salon Rouge & Spa
Why not treat someone to a massage, spray tan, or even a new hairdo? The stylists here are top-notch, especially if you want something unique like “unicorn” hair. They are also superb with the hot, new ombre balayage looks! I have patronized this salon since they first opened, and have never been disappointed. (Thank you, Ashlea and April!) Salon Rouge offers a full range of hair services, waxing, pedicures, tooth whitening, massages, facials, etc. Gift certificates available. 128 South Drive, Natchitoches, LA 71457. Phone 318.352.1735. Facebook: www.facebook.com/Salon-Rouge
Cane River Surgery Center
William A. Ball, Jr., M.D., and his staff not only provide surgical services, but they offer cosmetic injectables, glycolic peels, Latisse, and professional skincare products as well. While I’m sure there are many qualified practitioners, I really like that Dr. Ball personally administers all cosmetic injections. He takes a conservative approach and believes less is more. You have the opportunity to receive more, if desired, at a follow-up appointment. I have chosen Dr. Ball and his team on several occasions, and they have always been very professional, yet friendly and welcoming. Gift certificates are available. 740 Keyser Avenue #D, Natchitoches, LA 71457. Phone 318.354.2555. Website: www.caneriversurgery.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/CaneRiverSurgeryCenter
Nakatosh Tattoo Co.
Whether you would like a fresh, new tattoo, or an old one covered up, Max and Ash at Nakatosh Tattoo Co. are the only ones in the area I trust. As a former tattoo studio owner and surgical assistant, I am very picky. Sterile and sanitary procedures must be strictly adhered to, and the artwork must be stellar. Nakatosh Tattoo Co. is not your run-of-the-mill, seedy tattoo shop- they are also an art gallery, complete with paintings, antiques, and curiosities. Even if you don’t want a tattoo, you can still pick up a unique piece of art! 119 St. Denis Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457. Phone 318.238.OUCH (6824). Facebook: www.facebook.com/NakatoshTattooCo
Photos courtesy of Maximalion Tucker, Nakatosh Tattoo Co.
City Barbershop & The Barber’s Stache
City Barbershop, by Eric Upchurch, is like a trip back in time. The interior and atmosphere pay homage to old-time barbershops, not just in appearance, but with service, too. Whether you need a trim or a shave, this is the place to go! Adjacent is their retail business, The Barber’s Stache, which offers men’s grooming supplies, including Jack Black products. But, even if you’re not a guy, the lip balm and Pit Boss Antiperspirant/Deodorant are the BEST! Sephora even includes the lip balm in their gals’ gift sets, they are THAT popular! 502/504 Front Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457. Phone 318.352.9500. Website: www.natchitochesbarbershop.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/natchitochesbarbershop
