A new blow dry hair bar offering hairstyling and makeup for special occasions has opened in the Safeway shopping center on Bainbridge Island, and it is turning heads of residents eager for the luxury experience.

Blo Blow Dry Bar is a “wash, blow and go” service that offers hairstyling, hair extensions, makeup services and wig styling for guests who prefer the convenience of ready-to-wear hair.

Before the pandemic, business owner Rachel Dykeman was an auditor in the biotech medical devices industry who traveled frequently and discovered blow dry bar services. “I used to travel all the time for work, and it was super easy to book an appointment that was super convenient,” Dykeman said. “It was really relaxing, and I could actually do my work while I was getting my hair straightened out. I really enjoyed the relaxation and the convenience of it.”

After moving to BI in early 2020 and caring for her newborn, she realized there could be a demand for a blow-dry bar here. “I knew it was going to be a risk, but it’s a risk that I’m willing to take if I can make other women feel good about themselves. When I leave a blow-dry bar, I feel happy. And who doesn’t love having beautiful hair?” Dykeman said.

The journey to opening her blow dry bar took longer than expected due to COVID’s effect on the supply chain and construction industry. Hiring has also been challenging: most of her six employees commute from Silverdale, Bremerton and Suquamish. “We’ve been at this for over a year. It’s been painful and really difficult,” Dykeman said.

Dykeman said she has created a space where people of all ages, ethnicities and orientations are welcomed, represented and made to feel gorgeous while emphasizing the need for self-care and wellness.

Franchise business coach Simran Bhatia said the brand stands for inclusiveness. “We welcome all types of hair and all ethnicities. We offer pink carpet treatment because they are our guests of honor.”

The Blo Blow Dry Bar is open daily, offering five signature styles with customized looks, including updos and braids. They also offer Blo-On-The-Go mobile hair and makeup delivered on-site for weddings and other special events. For details go to blomedry.com/blo-bainbridge/.

Dykeman is still hiring staff seeking a fun work environment with core values that emphasize being happy, positive and kind. “Empowering other women, that’s what we’re all about.”