Speed Spa Opening in Mountain Brook

MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL — As a working mother, Tricia Holbrook quickly discovered that personal maintenance was a difficult priority to keep. Taking the time to get her hair and nails done right was a luxury that she couldn't always afford. But rather than sacrifice quality for time's sake, Holbrook decided to change the way the average salon functions and save time with efficiency.

That was the premise behind Speed Spa, Holbrook's business venture that will hold its grand opening on Sept. 22.

"The idea is to deliver 'first class super fast', as our slogan goes," Holbrook said. "It's a full-service salon — hair, face, nails, everything — done in the most timely manner possible but also traditionally done. It's not to turn [those services] upside down, but make it more efficient."

The key in Holbrook's business model is an app that draws on a concept that ride-sharing company Uber popularized. Customers of the salon will get to store their payment information in the Speed Spa app, where they can not only pay for their services but search for open appointments as well. Holbrook's use of technology extends into the salon itself, where each seat will be outfitted with a tablet that customers can use while they are being serviced, and can even be used to purchase beauty products through the store while they are being worked on.

"The technology eliminates the need for customers to interact with a receptionist, and ultimately saves them time," Holbrook said.

Efficiency is at the heart of Speed Spa's innovations, including the stylists' work stations. Holbrook and her team developed a means of concealing sinks behind a mirror at each station that can be pulled out when it's time to wash, so customers don't have to migrate from chair to chair. Some services can even be provided at the same time, like a cut and a manicure.

Holbrook hopes to eventually make the process even more efficient, like letting wait times reflect the customer's type of hair.

Despite the scientific nature of Holbrook's approach, she didn't cut back on the aesthetic. Salon-goers will sit in plush white leather chairs, which Holbrook is admittedly fond of, and enjoy an environment created by local architects Paul Bates and Laura Bartlett.

Speed Spa will celebrate its grand opening with a block party on Friday, Sept. 22 from 5 to 7 p.m. on Petticoat Lane. The salon's neighbors, Village Sportswear, Paige Albright Orientals and Patina, will remain open for the block party as well.

Photo Courtesy of Tricia Holbrook