Tucked away in Bernardsville, Blo Blow Dry Bar has quickly become more than just a hair salon; it’s a community hub that celebrates resilience and empowerment. Founded by Janina Hecht, Blo Bernardsville has not only navigated the challenges of launching a business during a pandemic but has also embraced a culture of inclusivity and support.
Hecht’s journey to opening Blo began with a simple yet profound inspiration: creating a space where beauty and confidence flourish. However, the path was anything but straightforward. Just months after opening, the Covid-19 pandemic forced a shutdown, leaving Hecht to rethink her strategy as she reopened to a cautious clientele. “No one was looking for new hair salons, especially during a lockdown,” Hecht recalls. “We had to start over with new hires and training, and it was daunting.”
The turning point came when Nancy Evaristo, a talented deaf stylist, walked through the door looking for a job. Recognizing the challenges posed by the ongoing mask mandates, Hecht and Evaristo were undeterred. “We knew communication would be an obstacle, but we were ready to face it together,” Hecht explains. With the support of her team, Evaristo not only found her place but also thrived, gaining a loyal following and becoming an exceptional trainer. Today, the staff at Blo Bernardsville is learning American Sign Language to better connect with Evaristo and their clients.
Hecht’s vision for Blo has always centered around her team. “I wanted them to be proud of their talents and feel encouraged to grow,” she says. That commitment has fostered a culture where stylists and makeup artists feel valued, which is evident in the high-quality service they provide. Regular clients often remark on the familial atmosphere that Blo has cultivated.
What sets Blo Bernardsville apart from other salons is its unique focus on hair extensions and specialized services. “We excel at offering luxury Glam Seamless and Priscilla Valles hair extensions, along with makeup services for everyday looks and special events,” Hecht notes. Their signature Blo On The Go service allows stylists to provide beauty treatments off-site, making it a convenient option for clients.
Beyond beauty, Blo Bernardsville is deeply committed to community service. Hecht and her team support two important local nonprofits, Raise the Volume and Bonnie Brae. They collaborate with Raise the Volume to raise scholarship funds for deaf and hard-of-hearing students and are currently organizing a holiday gift drive for female residents at Bonnie Brae, a residential school for youth in crisis. This initiative allows clients to contribute hair care products and accessories, giving young residents a “gift of glam” and the joy of being pampered.
Evaristo’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance. Born deaf and the only deaf member of her family, she faced numerous challenges on her path to becoming a hairdresser. Despite failing the State Board exam multiple times and encountering skepticism about her abilities, Evaristo never gave up. “I knew I had to keep trying,” she says, reflecting on her journey. Today, she inspires others, proving that passion and determination can overcome obstacles.
“I feel grateful and more confident working with the Blo team,” Evaristo adds. “Janina sees my potential, and together we’re creating an inclusive environment.” As she teaches her colleagues basic ASL, Evaristo is not only breaking barriers but also fostering a culture of understanding and acceptance.
In just a short time, Blo Blow Dry Bar has established itself as a symbol of resilience in Bernardsville. With a dedicated team led by Hecht and inspired by Evaristo, the salon continues to transform lives—one blowout at a time. For more information and to follow their journey, visit their website https://blomedry.com/bernardsville-nj or @blo_bernardsville on Instagram.
“I wanted them to be proud of their talents and feel encouraged to grow.” - Janina Hecht