In the midst of concerns about downtown businesses closing, Jaye Jacobs, owner of Flow Salonspa has been quietly overseeing renovation of 305 High Street, previously the location of Centreville National Bank. The new Flow opened up Tuesday, August 28; Jacobs and her staff literally walked the merchandise from the old location in the Alexander Building breezeway around the corner to High Street after closing on Saturday. The Spy sat down with Jacobs prior to the move to chat about the renovation and new spa amenities.
The 1909 building’s original pine floor, (discovered underneath four layers of uninspiring ‘modern’ flooring), has been sanded and refinished, bank counters and closets removed; the front entrance redone. Jacobs said she was hoping for some exposed brick walls, but no such luck. The most impressive improvement is a custom built open staircase leading to the second floor spa center. The high ceilings, large front windows, open staircase and bright colors all contribute to create an airy, welcoming space. Jacobs was not afraid to mix old and new – modern chandeliers hang over repurposed galvanized metal wall cabinets and old barn wood.
Jacobs opened Flow in July of 2009, and in the ensuing three years her business has grown considerably. She said she had been looking to expand for a while, but hadn’t found the right space until recently. The new location incorporates six hair stations, a kitchen and break room; the second floor spa center features two 
facial and massage rooms, a separate manicure/pedicure station and more seating. Education is a priority for her. Each employee takes at least four classes annually at the Aveda school in Alexandria, Va., with course offerings on business management, hair color, cutting and massage. (Jacobs noted that Flow is the only salon in the area carrying the full Aveda line, including their popular new mineral makeup.) In addition to courses, every April the staff attends the International Beauty Show in New York City, the longest running, professionals-only beauty show in the nation, where $400/hour celebrity hairdressers give you tips for free (with attendance).
“This is not just a job, it is a dream,” she told the Spy, adding that all her staff feels the same way. “It’s important to go the extra mile.” That extra mile is paying off; when the Spy stopped in Tuesday afternoon, there were plenty of customers and well wishers to congratulate Jacobs and the Flow team on their new location.
Flow Salonspa
305 High St.
Chestertown, MD 21620
410 810 1881
Megan Owings says
Congratulations to Jaye and the rest of the ladies at Flow. Their attention to detail, hard work, and professionalism make them stand out even without the incredible new digs. Best wishes!
Tammy says
What a great salon! Cogratulations to Jay, Mary and the entire staff.
Kimberly Bowers says
CONGRATS JAYE, my most fave hairdresser! Was in town last wk,,,wish you’d been open then…I need a cut bad! Best wishes girl!
Constance says
Yes indeed, congratulations!
The cuts and style I received at Flow when living in Chestertown were first class.