Getting the ‘back to school’ special

ELEELE — On Saturday, Da Shop in Eleele held its second annual Back to School Clip for Keiki event with free haircuts for children. The day started fast with four stylists cutting 27 kids’ hair within the first hour and 15 minutes.

Despite the burgeoning demand, staff were committed to providing quality cuts to their young clientele who had mixed feelings about returning to school, but unanimously wanted to look good doing so. Popular styles were the side-swept crewcut or undercut for boys and a long trim for girls.

“Kids like to look nice on the first day of school and we send them back looking spiffy,” said cosmetologist Angelia Cummings. “It’s our way of giving back to the community.”

Children also left with a backpack or school supplies and a chilled Capri Sun to counter the heat, courtesy of Da Shop workers who recognize that times are hard.

Rhonelle Aceret of Lawai, stopping by with her two grandsons, expressed her appreciation for the quality of service provided at Da Shop. In addition to a friendly atmosphere, reasonable prices and easy bookings, she said following @da_shop_kauai on Instagram makes it easy for her to stay abreast of activities.

Da Shop opened in 2016 and in January 2017 moved to its current location at 4353 Waialo Road. The fun and casual space is a dream come true for co-owners and graduates of Honolulu Community College’s course in cosmetology, Maelani Morden and Wanda Kauahi-Muffly. The pair grew up on Kauai and talked about running their own salon from a young age.

It features a welcoming staff and “selfie wall” full of paper flowers from a recent fashion show. Last year the inaugural event was held at the beach.

“We hope to do this every year,” said Morden. “A lot of people need help and it’s good to give back. We’d like to thank the community for supporting us.”

Da Shop is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Port Allen Marina Center.