BIZNOTE FOLLOWUP: Gene Juarez finally confirms West Seattle Junction location

(WSB photo, July)

Four months ago, we reported that city permit files showed a Gene Juarez salon was penciled in for the former Sound Credit Union space at 4730 California SW. At the time, the company’s CEO Katie Trent had no comment. Today, she emailed us this announcement:

I am happy to now confirm that we have leased the space formerly housing Sound Credit Union.

We are thrilled to bring our award-winning salon and skin care services to the Junction. Many of our staff (including me) live in West Seattle, as do many of our existing guests. It is a privilege to join the vibrant business scene in West Seattle/the Junction, and we look forward to making a positive contribution through additional foot traffic to the Junction as well as involvement with the many wonderful community events throughout the year.

Trent says they’re hoping to open in April. She adds:

The salon will feature our full complement of salon services, including texture/curl specialists and specialty extension services. We have been certified carbon neutral for beauty services by our sustainability partner, Green Circle Salons, since 2022 and intend to carry that practice to this location. Our skincare team offer a full suite of facial services as well as waxing, lash and brow services.

Mary walters November 25, 2024 (3:32 pm)

No Thanks, I get my haircut at VAIN. It’s the best hair salon in Seattle. Those Gene Juarez spots seriously lack experience.

Lincoln Park Mom November 26, 2024 (10:49 am)

Unnecessary comment. This is great for West Seattle. They are typically open 7 days a week, they provide amazing training for their employees and provide benefits. I have my amazing stylist at Artist and Muse but I’m thrilled for this for a quick weekend blow out and skincare. Sign me up!
- Musings November 26, 2024 (4:14 pm)
  
  Well said, LPM. Thank you! Agree 100% – it’s wonderful to have Gene Juarez among the options in the neighborhood!
- Lisa Marie November 27, 2024 (5:30 am)
  
  I love this comment! As a salon owner at La Luna On Alki and a Hair Industry professional of 25+ years I agree. We all had to start somewhere! Salon training is great! My clients go to GJ for blowouts if I’m not available in a pinch. Convenient walk in service. There are soooo many talented beauty professionals on our island! Somewhere for everyone!Welcome
  GJ !!
- Ly December 1, 2024 (7:29 pm)
  
  +1 to Lincoln Park Mom! I love the convenience and missed their massages I used to get at the downtown location.

Plf November 25, 2024 (5:14 pm)

Nice to have additional resource but boy are they expensive

Meeee November 26, 2024 (7:40 am)

They’re still in business? I’ll stick with my local and independent stylist.

L November 26, 2024 (1:47 pm)

Gene Juarez is local and independent. He is from Yakima and is the son of Mexican immigrants.
- Stylist November 26, 2024 (3:39 pm)
  
  Gene is Mexican, and from Yakima, and yes his parents immigrated. However, Gene sold the company around 2008. It has since been sold/purchased additional times. It is neither locally owned, nor an independent business. They’re currently owned by an LA based investment management firm. They have closed all their schools, and no longer offer advanced training. The quality has been sliding for years. what a challenge to bring such an impersonal business to our small community filled w artisans and local independent stylists.

Shop LOCAL November 26, 2024 (9:26 am)

Interesting choice. Also, I thought they were closing store after store. Another example of a corporate business I will not support. I will instead continue to support local businesses and small salons in our area. Too many independently owned shops in West Seattle that depend on us.

AT November 26, 2024 (10:21 am)

Fantastic! I’ve had a hard time getting the cuts I want at Vain and Beehive but have had much better luck at Gene Juarez. Totally worth it to actually LIKE my haircut!

Rj November 26, 2024 (3:21 pm)

Very excited for Gene Juarez to become part of the West Seattle community. I have worked with the company for 30+ years and have resided in W.S. for 11. I believe we will be a great addition to the wonderful blend of businesses in the Junction.

Musings November 26, 2024 (4:19 pm)

BRAVO!! We are equally excited to have you and your incredible company in the Junction. Welcome! : )

Aliyah November 27, 2024 (9:55 am)

@L – while you’re correct about Gene’s background he sold his interest in the salons in 2006. A different private equity group bought it about 5 or 6 years ago. I worked in one of the downtown Seattle salons while he was sill owner.

Westexpat December 1, 2024 (12:12 am)

I was crushed to see Washington Beauty School fold next to the triangle 7-11. I was getting an in training experienced stylist for 6. dollars out the door including the tip. I sure miss those days. Used to bring flowers 💐 and orchids to the owner Tryn. She 🥰 me. Now I go to the Pike Place Market and have Sergio do it for 25 dollars including tip. One man, one small shoppe where painted portraits of nude women adorn all his walls. He’s an accomplished Musician & writer too. Wise man.

Sorry, comment time is over.