Image Salon Studios
Image Salon Studio opened in Sugar Land as a one-stop shop for customers seeking beauty and relaxation services in fall 2011. Within a few months, the concept brought in a handful of local beauty specialists ranging from hair stylists to makeup artists to massage therapists. Last year, the business expanded by adding 20 rooms, bringing the total to more than 70 personalized spaces.
"The stylists love being able to make their own schedule," said Kaleigh Regas, corporate operations manager with Images Salon Studios. "It gives [stylists and specialists] the freedom and flexibility to operate the business they want."
Earlier this summer, Image opened a second location in the same strip center, which added another 26 rooms outfitted to accommodate beauty industry specialists. After only two months, the new location is nearing capacity, Regas said.
Image offers a Quiet Zone to clients where massage therapists and facialists can offer services.
15421 Hwy. 59
Sugar Land 281-207-4159
www.imagessalonstudio.com
Hours: Tue.–Sun. 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
Closed Sunday and Monday
Robin's Dance Studio
Robin's Dance Studio has been offering classes for more than 40 years. Its original Stafford location began its first class in 1973 under the direction of Robin Kelley before moving to its spot off Hwy. 6. Former student Melanie Pede, who first became a student at the studio at 6 years old, took over the studio in 2007.
Beginning Sept. 6, Pede starts a new program—Hearts in Motion Dance Academy—that offers sessions to students with Down syndrome.
"These classes provide an opportunity for these children to express themselves through movement and also help to improve their coordination, strength, flexibility and self-confidence," Pede said.
Pede leads the Saturday morning class with assistance from the studio's senior dancers. Robin's Dance Studio offers classes, such as jazz, ballet and tap, to students ages 2 and a half and up.
3643 Glenn Lakes Lane
Missouri City 281-499-3921
www.robinsdancestudio.com
Class schedule available online
Kona Ice
While living in Big Springs, Texas, a longtime friend of Brenda and Gaylon North inspired the couple to enter a new business venture. The Norths took their idea to the city of Sugar Land in 2011 and opened Kona Ice—a franchise food truck that caters to parties and events selling shaved ice with a variety of flavors.
"We started looking into it and fell in love with the idea," Gaylon said. "We really enjoy being in the Sugar Land area. We work with [our customers] to bring something affordable and helpful."
Kona Ice charges an hourly rate for parties and events. The increasingly popular flavor Tigers Blood—a mix of strawberry and coconut is self-serve. Other distinctive flavors include Fuzzy Navel—a mix of orange and peach.
The Norths have stayed busy with birthday parties, athletic events, private functions and other community events.
"Serving the kids is rewarding, and it is a fun product. We have made some really great friends," Gaylon said.
832-520-7200 www.kona-ice.com
