Runner-Up: Salon With 4-7 Nail Technicians

Location: Runnemede, N.J

Owner: Pete Ventrone

Manager: Linda Champion

Years in business: 15

Staff size: 15 (5 nail technicians)

Salon Owners Live the Golden Age

Until two years ago, Golden Shears specialized in hair, as the name indicated. But when Linda Champion joined the staff, the salon--- and its name --- expanded. Now known as Golden Shears Hair, Nails & More, the salon has a new, more professional image, as evidenced by the remodeled interior, stricter dress code, and salon-wide computerization, not to mention its expanded service menu.

Peter Ventrone and Linda Champion, owner and manager of Golden Shears Salon, exude a Hollywood glamour that is reflected in their gorgeous salon.

Peter Ventrone and Linda Champion, owner and manager of Golden Shears Salon, exude a Hollywood glamour that is reflected in their gorgeous salon. 

“We are perfectionists who take great pride in our work. We guarantee all our work and never charge for broken nails. We encourage clients to hurry in for emergency repairs. This nail staff does not want any of its clients to be seen with less-than-perfect nails,” says Champion, who manages the Runnemede, N.J., salon owned by her finance, Peter Ventrone.

The salon won high marks from the NAILS Industry Awards judges for its warm, inviting decor. Champion and Ventrone share a passion for antiques and what Champion calls “euro-eclectic” decor. From “you don’t mind waiting” room--- with its tapestry sofas, oriental rugs, Victoria oak furniture, antique accent pieces, and refreshment area--- to the oak floors throughout the salon and the unique nail stations, each chosen to fit its particular area of the salon, the salon’s decor befits an image of elegance and beauty.

While the decor recalls an era past, the salon’s staff is up-to-the-moment on the nail industry. Ventrone is an active member of the National Cosmetology Association, and Champion belongs to the Nails Industry Association. “Our nail team has been involved in nail competitions and we are hungry for education. We are open to all new technology, ideas, and networking opportunities,” says Champion.

This past summer Golden Shears opened the second floor of its building for facials, massages, and tanning---all in secluded rooms where clients can enjoy their privacy. Just one more golden touch to an already “Champion” salon.

For reprint and licensing requests for this article, Click here.