Birdcage concept looks to draw stylists, specialists
There are likely many entrepreneurially minded Calgarians who could use a boost to get their business started.
Emily and Craig LePan, owners of Flipp Advertising, are launching a new company that will empower stylists and estheticians to set up their own shops.
The couple have leased a 4,000-square-foot space on the main floor of the Alura condo tower at 1st Street and 14th Avenue S.W. Their new business, Birdcage Salon District, will offer studio spaces — fronted by a cafe and wine bar — designed with the help of Frank Architecture.
Emily had visited similar establishments in the U.S. but felt they were missing a strong marketing component. She persuaded Craig to consider the idea of opening a similar model here that would benefit from their agency.
After talking with a number of hair stylists, they found the ideal location — more than 5,000 people live within a 500-metre walk of Alura — and began discussing their needs with Frank’s designers. Birdcage can accommodate up to 17 units. Each business will be equipped with independent plumbing and a sink, free Wi-Fi, an on-site washer and dryer, and cleaning services. Tenants determine their own hours of business.
Each space can be personalized to taste and the rent includes professional marketing, including print, mail, public relations and digital advertising by Flipp’s professional team.
The collective will have its own website, while each business will have a dedicated profile page.
The LePans are hoping to attract hair stylists, lash and micro-blade technicians, and skin-care specialists to Birdcage, making it a destination spot for owners and customers.
The addition of a 21-seat cafe and wine bar will benefit the neighbourhood while providing a relationship between salons, their clients and those waiting for them to finish treatments.
Uncertain what to call their new venture, Craig said he and Emily became clients of their own advertising firm, who came up with the Birdcage Salon District name and developed the logo and website.
They’ve had many discussions with potential users who are at the top of their profession and have a steady client base, but would who appreciate the opportunity to be self-employed.
Depending on approvals from the city and Alberta Liquor Control Board, the LePans expect to have Birdcage ready to welcome customers in May.
NEWS AND NOTES
Didier Lhuillier came to Calgary three years ago to set up an office for Engie Fabricom. As acting CEO, he promoted the company’s expertise in the construction of industrial complex modules for the oil and gas and power sector throughout Western Canada. Lhuillier was successful in completing his first two projects safely, on time and on budget. He’s now returning to Europe in a new role with the company as managing director for CNR, the largest renewable energy company in France. Simon Rafferty, who joined the company here in 2013 in a development role, will now lead Engie Fabricom in Calgary.
Starbelly Open Kitchen + Lounge in Seton has appointed Paul McGreevy to executive chef following the death of chef Jonathan Sobol in a car crash last summer. McGreevey is a graduate of SAIT’s culinary arts program with 22 years of experience as a professional in Calgary kitchens. David Parker appears Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Read his columns online at calgaryherald.com/ business. He can be reached at 403830-4622 or info@davidparker.ca