La Costa. Hair by Paul LeBrecque Image by Jim Eisele
The history of hair salons dates back to the late 1800s, when the first-ever recorded salon was created by Martha Matilda Harper in Rochester, New York. Harper, a Canadian-American entrepreneur, is widely credited with revolutionizing hair care and establishing the salon model as we know it today. Since then, hair salons have evolved into cultural institutions—places where beauty, self-expression, and confidence merge, all guided by expert hands.
In today’s world, looking your best has never been more important, not just for personal confidence but for professional success as well. Whether you’re dressing for a corporate meeting or leisure, well-groomed, expertly styled hair plays a crucial role in enhancing your overall appearance. For both men and women, the right haircut can highlight your best features, framing your face and boosting your confidence. This is especially true when done by a master stylist, which is why salons remain such an integral part of the beauty industry.
The hair salon business is more than just a place for a trim or color touch-up. It’s a thriving industry that brings in billions annually, contributing significantly to the global economy. In 2022 alone, the hair care and salon industry generated approximately $47 billion in revenue in the U.S. alone. Beyond the economic impact, the industry plays a crucial role in shaping beauty standards and personal identity.
At the forefront of this ever-evolving landscape is Paul Labrecque Salon & Spa, an oasis of luxury and care that stands out in today’s competitive market. After personally experiencing the services at Paul Labrecque’s newest Palm Beach location, I can confidently say this salon is truly unique. From the moment you step inside, you are enveloped in an atmosphere of professionalism, warmth, and artistic skill that is rarely found in today’s fast-paced world. As someone who has seen firsthand the dedication and talent within this salon, I’d like to highlight five key aspects that set Paul Labrecque apart from other salons.
Firstly, the staff at Paul Labrecque Salon & Spa is not only highly skilled but genuinely kind-hearted. Whether you’re meeting a stylist, colorist, or massage therapist, each member of the team is dedicated to making you feel special and cared for. This approach goes beyond just providing a service—they build relationships, getting to know their clients and making each visit feel personal.
Secondly, the level of expertise in hairdressing and coloring is truly exceptional. Labrecque and his team are at the forefront of cutting-edge hair restoration techniques, offering treatments that not only beautify but also heal and strengthen hair. The salon is also one of the few that isn’t departmentalized, meaning their artists excel in various areas, allowing clients to get a truly holistic experience, whether it’s a cut, color, or treatment.
Third, the spa services at Paul Labrecque are world-class. The salon’s use of advanced technologies like Biologique Recherche and Environ ensures that every client leaves feeling re-energized, refreshed, and revitalized. Their massage therapy is tailored to each client, making it a healing experience rather than just a momentary escape.
Fourth, the Palm Beach location itself is an absolute masterpiece. The space is designed to give clients an unparalleled sense of luxury, with a separate spa area for a serene, distraction-free experience. The VIP hair restoration room is another standout feature, providing privacy and comfort for those seeking more specialized treatments.
Finally, the Paul Labrecque Salon & Spa embodies a sense of community. Through their philanthropic efforts, including the annual Paul Labrecque Night of Giving led by Collin Adams, they actively give back to important causes. This kind-hearted approach resonates deeply with clients and fosters a sense of belonging, making each visit more than just an appointment—it’s a way to support a business that cares about its community.
After my visit, I left not only with a refreshed appearance but also with a renewed sense of confidence. The combination of expert hair care, cutting-edge treatments, and an atmosphere of kindness truly elevates this salon to a place of distinction.
Exclusive Interview with Paul Labrecque: From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leadership
In this exclusive interview, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Paul Labrecque, the visionary behind the Paul Labrecque Salon & Spa empire. We discuss his journey from launching a three-chair studio on Columbus Avenue to building a luxury salon and spa brand that spans three prestigious locations. This conversation dives into the personalized client experience, the cutting-edge hair restoration services, and Paul’s latest innovations in haircare and wellness. Get ready to explore Paul’s insights on the future of beauty, the rise of customized hair trends, and his philanthropic initiatives.
Joseph DeAcetis: When and where did you first launch the Paul Labrecque Salon & Spa, and what was your initial vision for the brand?
Paul Labrecque: On Columbus Avenue, we were part of the re-gentrification of an avenue that was being relaunched as a hub for shopping and dining. I was obsessed with the store Parachute and a hairdresser slightly my senior, Oribe, who had a salon in the rear of the store. I said to my boyfriend, who is now my husband, “This is us. This is where we belong.” It was trendy, it was forward, and that’s where we launched our first three-chair studio.
Joseph DeAcetis: What makes your salons unique regarding the consumer experience? How do you ensure that each visit is exceptional for your clients?
Paul Labrecque: We like to think of our salon as a family. We remember names and details of our clients’ lives. We celebrate their triumphs and mourn their losses. It’s more than just hustle hair—we build and foster relationships. This philosophy extends to how we train our junior staff. There’s no room for prima donnas in our salon. At any time, you’ll see me sweeping or shampooing, because I teach that you should never ask someone else to do what you wouldn’t do yourself.
Joseph DeAcetis: Where are your salons currently located, and how can someone book an appointment with you or your team?
Paul Labrecque: We currently have three locations: 5 East 57th Street in New York, where we have the entire 9th floor with the most beautiful natural light; the Slat House at the Royal Poinciana Plaza in Palm Beach, with windows galore; and our third location in Philadelphia, located in the prestigious 5-star Hotel, The Rittenhouse, where we occupy the entire 3rd floor. You can book online through Paul Labrecque Appointments or by phone, and all numbers connect interactively. For The Rittenhouse Hotel, we forward you to their main desk.
Joseph DeAcetis: What services do your salons specialize in, and what sets them apart from other salons in the industry?
Paul Labrecque: We offer a full range of beauty and body healing services. I’m at the forefront of hair restoration, color, and cuts. We aren’t departmentalized; instead, we cultivate artists who excel in various areas. Our reception team is trained to guide clients to the stylist or technician best suited to their needs. Our spa boasts the latest technology from Biologique Recherche and Environ. Our highly trained massage crew specializes in diagnostic massages, and our nail department uses formaldehyde-free products to maintain nail integrity. All of this happens in a clean, sterile environment thanks to our on-staff cleaning team.
Joseph DeAcetis: Can you tell us more about your new location in Palm Beach? What can clients expect when they visit this new salon?
Paul Labrecque: It’s a state-of-the-art space. Our spa is separate from the salon, ensuring a relaxed experience away from the frenetic energy of a busy salon. Our hair restoration/VIP room is private. We also feature a beautiful apothecary with the most advanced products that money can buy.
Product images curtesy of Paul Labrecque
Joseph DeAcetis: Let’s talk about your hair products. What inspired you to create your own line, and what makes these products stand out in the market?
Paul Labrecque: I met my husband Brian while selling hair products. He had his own line called Pure, the first fully hypoallergenic haircare line in the UK, which was ahead of its time but spoke to me. When we developed our line, we used essential oils for fragrance. Each line is tailored to a specific hair type—for example, our color line features peach, a natural sunscreen, as its scent. We offer Color Shampoo, Color Condition, Color Style, and Color Finish—four steps to beautiful, preserved hair color. We’ve also developed products for daily use, straight hair, curly hair, repair, and volume.
Joseph DeAcetis: How has technology contributed to the development and success of the Paul Labrecque brand?
Paul Labrecque: When we first started in skincare, it was all about cleansing and relaxation. Now, technology is youth-driven, and we offer treatments that make your face look younger. We’ve integrated this into every department, with innovations like V-light extensions and amino acid treatments to defrizz hair.
Joseph DeAcetis: What trends do you see emerging in the haircare and wellness world, and how is your salon adapting to or leading these trends?
Paul Labrecque: The biggest trend is that we wear our hair—hair doesn’t wear the person. It’s customized and never stagnant. We encourage and wear change, and we foster that adaptability in our clients.
Joseph DeAcetis: Your philanthropic efforts are well known. Can you share more about the charities and causes you support and why they are important to you?
Paul Labrecque: “Each year, the Paul Labrecque Night of Giving, under the leadership of Collin Adams, selects a charitable cause that is most in need of our support. Collin oversees the entire fundraiser, which has become both a highly enjoyable and successful event. While I humbly participate by delivering a speech, it is truly Collin who takes charge and makes the event a success. Over the years, we have curated events for organizations such as Family Promise, Habitat for Humanity, Extraordinary Charities, and Simply From the Heart.”
Joseph DeAcetis: What is your 5-year plan for the future of Paul Labrecque Salon & Spa? How do you envision the brand evolving in the coming years?
Paul Labrecque: I’m currently looking for someone to carry on our legacy, with the same dedication to training, philosophy, and attention to detail. My husband and I want to pay it forward and leave our business in the hands of the next generation of genius. So, stay tuned—we’re evolving!
If you’re in Palm Beach and looking for a full-service salon that combines luxury, professionalism, and heart, look no further than Paul Labrecque Salon & Spa. Whether it’s a transformative haircut, soothing massage, or a rejuvenating spa treatment, you’ll leave feeling your absolute best. This is more than just a salon—it’s an experience. Come and discover what true luxury looks and feels like at Paul Labrecque Salon & Spa.
About the Author:
Joseph DeAcetis is a visionary in the world of fashion, renowned as the best wardrobe stylist and art director of his generation. His impressive accolades and unmatched expertise set him apart in the industry. Joseph covers the intersections of style, culture, art, and fashion, with a particular emphasis on the evolving status of menswear.
Throughout his illustrious career, Joseph has penned award-winning columns for top-tier publications such as Esquire, People Magazine, Robb Report, and Playboy. His profound insights and engaging narratives have made him a leading voice in fashion journalism.
Most recently, Joseph served as the creative fashion director for Forbes Media, where he excelled as both a critic and reporter. His extensive body of work highlights the importance of dressing for success and explores how technological advancements are reshaping the fashion industry. Joseph’s authoritative yet approachable voice continues to inspire and influence fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
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