New Langford Salon Fulfills Community Need for Hair Care

A new hair salon has opened its doors in Langford, aiming to meet a significant community need for specialized hair care services. Island Xpressions Hair and Beauty Studio, launched by Eleithia Bedward, focuses on providing expert services for multicultural and afro-textured hair, a gap that Bedward identified shortly after moving to the area.

Bedward, originally from Jamaica, relocated to Langford from Kelowna three and a half years ago. She never envisioned herself as a salon owner, but the local demand for hair services tailored to specific hair textures prompted her to take the leap. “There wasn’t a place where a person with my hair texture could go and get serviced in Langford,” Bedward explained, humorously recalling her own struggles with hair care at home.

Community Response and Services Offered

Despite being open for just a few weeks, Island Xpressions has quickly gained popularity. “We’ve been waiting for something like this,” said Ruth Fowler, a client from Nigeria who appreciates the convenience of the new salon. For her, the time-consuming task of styling her hair herself often took five hours or more. “Being able to come and just relax away from the kids, it’s really, truly something special,” she added.

The salon’s staff are trained specifically in handling multicultural hair, a skill set that is difficult to find on Vancouver Island. Bedward shared a story about a mother whose daughter was turned away from another salon due to the stylist’s lack of understanding of how to manage afro-textured hair. This experience reinforced Bedward’s commitment to providing accessible services for all hair types.

Island Xpressions aims to offer a range of products and services at various price points. “Our slogan says, ‘elevating beauty, celebrating culture,’” Bedward stated, emphasizing her desire to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. The salon also provides barber services for men and uses organic products that are carefully sourced and crafted.

A Focus on Community and Support

The salon represents more than just a business; it embodies a sense of community. Fowler described it as a space created “for us, by one of us,” highlighting Bedward’s dedication as a person of color and a mother to a 16-month-old son. The journey of launching the salon has been challenging for Bedward, who credits her supportive husband and a close network of friends for helping her navigate the demands of entrepreneurship.

The positive response from the community has been overwhelming. “People are happy that we’re here. We’re getting calls, and people are stopping in just to say ‘hey,’” Bedward reported. This encouragement has contributed to a welcoming atmosphere, which Bedward hopes will continue to foster a sense of belonging for all clients.

Island Xpressions Hair and Beauty Studio is located at unit 106-2800 Bryn Maur Road in Langford. As the salon continues to grow, Bedward remains focused on her mission to elevate beauty while celebrating the diverse cultures in her community.