June 6, 2023

Autum Entenman grew up painfully aware of what hair-related struggles can do to a person.

Born with Menkes disease, her body lacks the copper needed to grow hair.

The Brandon native endured “being teased for my hair being different from others,” she said. So after a 23-year banking career, she turned her own experience into a business.

Babe Hair Solutions opened Monday in a retail center at 2111 W. 49th St.

“Owning and operating a salon is completely new to me, but I feel there is a need for my business in our town due to not only myself struggling with trying to find hair solutions but having numerous others telling me the same thing. And having lived and breathed this situation my whole life, I think I will really be able to help and empower woman going through a similar situation.”

The business is meant to be a one-stop hair solution shop, including wigs, hair extensions, hair salon services, eyelash extensions, brow services and microblading, plus a full retail store to help maintain, style or help with hair loss.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are suggested, Entenman said.

“I started this business because I felt there was not enough options in town for those struggling with hair loss. Not only did I want to offer wigs and hair extensions, but I wanted to offer all solutions for any hair situation because hair loss is already hard enough, but to have to find somewhere to help has been in my experience very draining,” she said. “I don’t want anyone else to feel or go through what I have had to go through trying to find a solution along with products and styling advice. I am hoping others feel the same way, and with trained up-to-date staff members to help, we are expecting a high demand for our services.”

She chose the location for its high traffic counts but also its location slightly off a main road to offer more privacy, she said.

“Our business not only wants to help the everyday woman but also specialize in those struggling with hair loss for a solution that makes them want to come back over and over again with our outstanding customer services, spa-like attention, with beautiful ambiance to make everyone feel welcome,” she said.

Hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The business currently is hiring for a cosmetologist to install, cut, color and style wigs and hair extensions with paid training.