SHIRLEY – An empty bank in downtown Shirley has been transformed into a salon, and young couple Reagan and Austin Clutinger are excited about the makeover bringing new life into the community.
Northern Pines Salon and Spa opened Jan. 2 in the building that once housed Star Bank.
The Wilkinson family has had a busy year, renovating the building over the last nine months and welcoming baby daughter Charlie just six months ago.
Reagan, who has styled hair for about six years, said the timing may have been crazy, but she has known for a while that she wanted to own her own business. But she didn’t think it would be like this – she just assumed it would be a small shop, perhaps inside her home.
That’s when friends Cindy and Kerry Glisson approached her about the empty building they owned. Star Bank at 310 S. Main St. closed in 2017, and the Glissons asked the Clutingers if they’d be interested in creating something new.
“Ok, let’s run with this, and the dream transpired from there,” Reagan said.
Reagan grew up in Kennard, Austin in Wilkinson. So it was important to them to stick to the area they were raised in.
“When the idea came about, I thought, ‘This is a town that used to thrive,’” Reagan said. “I want to bring young life to something, and just boost the town.”
Renovations were done by a team of three: Austin, his father and father-in-law used their handyman skills to renovate the building over time.
“It was the talk of the town for several months,” Austin said, as several stopped by to see what all the work was about.
The renovations were kept fairly secret, though, as the family didn’t quite know when they’d be complete to open for business.
The interior was completely gutted, and offices removed to make way for two spots for haircuts for men, women and children; a massage area; an aesthetician; and even a permanent makeup artist. The drive-through ATM remains outside, and the bank vault is still in place.
“It’s been a whirlwind for sure, but I’m always up for the challenge,” Reagan said, adding that they’re hoping to have a grand opening event in March.
Cindy Glisson is happy for the young family and glad she was able to help them with the process after purchasing the bank she had worked in for 26 years. She didn’t like seeing it empty, and wanted to see new life in her hometown.
“I think it’s awesome, it’s beautiful,” Glisson said, adding that she just got her first massage at the new shop. “Up until that point we still called it the bank but since then now I call it the salon.
I hope the entire family can make it a thriving business for all of them, it is really awesome that it is a family business.”
The salon offers haircuts, color, waxing, facials, lashes, microblading and massages.
It was named Northern Pines after Reagan’s fishing trips to Minnesota over the years. She plans to complete the interior’s décor with a northern lodge vibe, hoping people feel the same relaxation she’s felt in the north when they come to her spa.
“It was a big part of my childhood that I miss,” she said.
While the business is open now – scheduled appointments are preferred – there are several finishing touches that need to be made. A desk will be added to the entrance, and a children’s area might be added to keep kids occupied while their parents are pampered. This summer, the family plans to clean and paint the exterior of the building.
The family has been using word of mouth and social media to spread the message that they’re open, and she said the community has welcomed them with open arms.
“They’re excited to see something new come to town,” Reagan said.
To learn about services or to schedule an appointment, visit facebook.com/northernpinessalon or northernpines-salon-and-spa.square.site.
