Jul’s Studio offers more than a haircut

BY JOHN DUNPHY
Staff Writer

CHRIS KELLY staff Juliette Mills puts some finishing touches on the hair of Sonia Black, Sayreville, Tuesday at the recently opened Jul’s Studios, Washington Road. SAYREVILLE — When borough resident Juliette Mills decided she would take her hair-care skills to the next level by opening her own business, she knew it would have to be something special.

This kind of thinking has brought immediate success to Jul’s Studios on Washington Road, which officially opened for business in November.

“She’s focused on more the person’s hair care, not the style of the week,” said George Mills, Juliet’s husband of eight years. “She expects [customers] to get real, healthy hair.”

Born and raised in Ghana, Juliet moved to Montclair when she was 19 years old. It was there where she began to learn the art of hair styling under her mentor, Kevin Lyle Thomas, the first black hairdresser in Montclair.

Under his tutelage, she has learned that proper hair care relies not on current trends, but continual dedication to the ongoing nurturing of one’s hair.

“Business has been good,” said Juliet, who has been a hairdresser for 13 years. “For a new salon with no advertisements, [we] wanted to see what word of mouth would bring.”

The proof is in the product.

Jul’s Studios, which began with an established clientele of 130 from Juliet’s work from home, has grown to 220 in less than two months.

Perhaps the proof is also in the presentation. When people step into Jul’s Studios, they are greeted by warm cream and orange tones on the walls, a bevy of professional products from brands like Paul Mitchell, Matrix and Mizani, and the friendly smile of the salon’s impresario.

But people who come to Jul’s Studios don’t just come in and get a haircut; they get an education as well.

“I heard her talk people out of various products,” George said.

Besides hair care, Jul’s Studios offers a number of other amenities one might not expect. A modest shelf holds an array of books for patrons to borrow, read and return upon their next visit.

Also, visitors find walls offering some of the finest in black art. Juliet, who has been an art agent for a number of years, hopes to eventually hold shows at the salon for people to have wine and cheese and maybe get a little culture with their cut.

Juliet said she is also interested in a singles night at the salon, among other possible activities.

Despite having particular skill in the hair care of women of color, Juliet is trained in the care of anyone with a head of hair. Men, women, black or white, anyone can come in to the melting pot that is Jul’s Studios and expect to be treated with attentive care, its owner stated.

“To do hair is like being a seamstress,” she said. “You have to know which techniques to sew cotton, denim, silk [not just one fabric].”

On a recent weekday, the “seamstress” could be seen weaving up various styles, locks and layers, all with a smile revealing she loves what she does.

“I’m just trying to make it a warm place for people to come in and be relaxed, and look great.” Juliet said. “I try to do it all a little more personal.”

Jul’s Studios is open every day except Monday.