Merchant Monday

With a name like Salon Chocolat, one might be confused about whether you can obtain confections or a hair cut inside.

For the record, it's a new hair salon in downtown Carson City on West Proctor Street, across the street from Doppelgangers Brewery. And they do have chocolate.

"Chocolate is one of our favorite things, so we tried to come up with a way to incorporate it," said salon owner Sarah Zeron.

Zeron opened the new salon five weeks ago, after previously owning the Backdoor Hair Studio for six years.

This time, she had the downtown location she was looking for, more space to work with, and was able to imprint her style into every detail of the shop, from the chocolate-and-turquoise wallpaper to the dark brown granite countertops.

"I love the '40s, and I love that old French look, heavy textures, fabrics, big bulky furniture," Zeron said. "I wanted something different, to create something that wasn't here."

The high windows in the salon bring in ample light, while giving customers privacy. Mirrors help reflect the natural light, and warm track lighting adds to mood while helping customers and colorists to see true colors. The salon features a comfortable waiting area where customers can partake of the dairy-free and sugar-free chocolate.

"I would like to think people would want to come here for the atmosphere and the service we give and what I can provide," Zeron said. "I think it's hard to find a place where you can relax and feel pretty. That's what I'm trying to achieve. If people want to escape Carson City and step into a different time, a different place, I think this is it."

The salon features six styling chairs and three chairs at what Zeron calls her Color Bar.

"This is where they can actually see that we custom tailor their hair color for them, and it's not just something that's generic," Zeron said. "This is a way to involve them in that process."

Separated from the styling area by a metal chain curtain is the shampoo area, what Zeron calls the Lather Room.

"I tried to create a lounge feel, so you wouldn't just feel like you were getting your hair washed, something a little more special," Zeron said.

There is a separate esthetician room for facials, makeup and aging treatments. One special kind of treatment is a chocolate facial.

"Chocolate is an anti-oxidant powerhouse, so it's really good for your skin," Zeron said.

Zeron works with two other stylists, Jacqueline Niebling and Jen Colonna, and esthetician Aimee Strathman.

Salon Chocolat will have its official grand opening on Feb. 4 from 5 to 8 p.m., with hors d'oeuvres and champagne provided by Doppelgangers.

- Contact reporter Kirk Caraway at kcar

away@nevadaappeal.com or 775-881-1261.

Salon Chocolat

Address: 177 W. Proctor St.

Phone number: 775-884-3667

Fax: 775-884-4989

Web: salonchocolat.com

Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call to book evening appointments