(reprinted from the Oakland Observer)Observer: Tell us about your business, including the types of services and/or products you feature.
Arleen Coffee: I have been working with some wonderful products. They offer women a chance to give up on some of the harsh things that we have done to our hair in the past, my goal is to offer alternate choices that are out there. I found a good regiment makes all the difference in the world to a beautiful head of hair and it makes you feel good to know that when your hair is healthy, then you have options. I do press and curls, softening treatments, color and more.
A few of the products I am featuring include Envia, Joico, Mary Kay, Nicole Miller, and more.
Observer: What makes your business unique?
Arleen Coffee: My background is very diverse; I had a great start with customer service, marketing and sales in corporate America and being licensed for over 19 years, it made me hungry to have a different kind of salon that was geared towards respecting clients' time which is one of the biggest complaints that plagues this industry. So I am a little unique in that way.
Observer: How did you first decide to open your own business?
Arleen Coffee: In high school and college, I majored in business and I worked very closely with others who owned their own business and it inspired me. I realized when my mother passed in 2006 that it was time to do this. I attempted to partnet with others a couple of times and it never panned out, so I took the plunge, and I'm glad I did!
Observer: How did you decide to locate in the Farmington/Farmington Hills community?
Arleen Coffee: When I moved here 12 years ago I really enjoyed the family atmosphere and thought I should invest where I live.
Observer: Do you have a funny tidbit or story to share with our readers about your experience so far as a small business owner?
Arleen Coffee: Just that when I first opened, I answered my phone with the name of a previous salon I worked at, and I had to laugh. I never let on , we just finished as though I said "Hello Acafes Hair Studio Arleen speaking how may I help you"!