Decades Later, Chantal Rolling’s Hairstyling Career Perseveres in Downtown Bellevue
January 5, 2023 - by Sandy Vo
Decades Later, Chantal Rolling’s Hairstyling Career Perseveres in Downtown Bellevue
Just weeks into the pandemic, Chantal Rolling, owner of Total Looks by Chantal Salon Boutique & Spa, received dozens of cancellation phone calls from clients – a moment many small businesses have faced. Now, two years later, Rolling said most of her clients still haven’t returned. She noted that a majority of them moved out of town due to varying factors caused by the pandemic.
“It’s very clear that small business owners like myself are still feeling the negative impacts of COVID-19," Rolling said.
Rolling has been a hairstylist in Downtown Bellevue for over 30 years. For the first two decades of her career, she worked at the former JCPenney Styling Salon and eventually went on to work as an Independent Stylist at Michaels of Bellevue Salon SPA. During this time, Rolling watched Downtown Bellevue go through a massive development phase and became inspired to be part of the growth. In 2015, she took an opportunity to rent out her first studio at Sola Salons inside the Elements Apartments. Rolling saw massive success in the first few years of opening her business.
“When I had a chance to open my business, I knew it had to be in Downtown Bellevue,” Rolling said. “Renting out my first studio here made it easy for me to move all my clients to my new salon.”
Rolling describes Total Looks by Chantal as a Black-owned business that welcomes all. She offers a wide range of customizable high-quality services, including haircuts, coloring, makeup applications, custom wigs, and more. Even after decades of working the same job, Rolling stated watching people feel confident in their own skin is what keeps her going.
“One of my favorite services is hair topper, an option for many people who struggle with hair loss or live with alopecia,” she said. “At the end of the day, I want my clients to feel like their salon experience is meaningful and worth coming back for.”
As the post-pandemic world continues to change, she’s determined to adapt to it. When she’s not working, Rolling is busy searching for small business resources and teaching herself how to market in the digital age.
“This is more than just a career for me, this is my livelihood,” Rolling said. “Downtown Bellevue has always been my workplace. This is where I opened my first business, and I don’t plan on giving it up easily.”
If you’re looking for a fresh look for the New Year, support local by heading to Total Looks by Chantal! Book an appointment on her website today or call 206-459-2466.
This blog is part of the Heart of Bellevue: our campaign to showcase local businesses while connecting you with stories of activity, creativity and recovery. Find out about our campaign and explore more of what’s happening around Downtown.
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Total Looks by Chantal Salon Boutique & Spa
10900 NE 8th St
Bellevue, WA 98004
