Ribbon-Cutting: Aria Salon in Grosse Pointe Woods

Co-owners of Aria Salon James Orlando and Dmitriy Pomogalov celebrated their business this week with officials from and the . 

The salon opened on Mack Avenue nearly a year ago, Orlando said, following a ribbon-cutting ceremony this week.

Aria is located at 20527 Mack Ave. housed another salon previously. Orlando and Pomogalov gutted the building and started anew, they said, explaining they wanted to make the environment relaxing.

The front portion of the salon houses stations generally used for cutting and styling hair. A free-standing coat closet separates the first section from the middle section, which contains no mirrors, Orlando pointed out. This is where the stylists color and highlight hair--a look no one enjoys seeing, hence no mirrors, Orlando said.

In the back of the business, there is a small individual room for anyone wishing to have privacy because of the treatment they are receiving or some other reason, Orlando explained.

The co-owners have known each other for years and first met at Aria Salon when it was on the Hill a few decades ago, Orlando said. Both have since worked in various salons throughout the Pointes. Orlando said he's opened, operated and worked in the Grosse Pointes for more than 40 years. The pair decided to go into business together a couple of years ago and re-open Aria Salon, he said.

Grosse Pointe Woods Mayor Robert Novitke, city administrator Al Fincham, Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce representatives Jennifer Boettcher and MaryJo Harris joined in the celebration this week during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The salon offers all of the typical hair services in addition to waxing. Hours and stylists can be found on the salon's website.