Moonstone Salon was named for the qualities owner Amanda McCaffrey wanted her Clinton business to embody: balance, relaxation and feminine energy. With their soft, ethereal glow, moonstones offered a fitting reflection of her vision.
“The meaning behind the name perfectly represents what I wanted to create,” McCaffrey says. “Balance, relaxation and feminine energy—that sums it up.”
She laughs when recalling what she originally imagined and what the salon has become since opening in 2022. Amanda expected to begin with only two stylists, including herself. Instead, Moonstone Salon opened with 10 stylists and has since grown to a team of 13 talented professionals. Together, they bring creativity and expertise to a thoughtfully designed space that reflects Amanda's goal of making every guest feel welcomed.
Although some people questioned whether opening a business while caring for a newborn was taking on too much, Amanda had always dreamed of owning a salon of her own. She wanted her daughter to grow up watching her pursue that dream with confidence and determination. Renovating the leased building was a major undertaking, but Amanda kept moving forward. As she puts it, "Moms just go with the flow."
That mindset continues to shape the salon's philosophy today. Rather than encouraging clients to chase every passing trend, the team focuses on helping each person become the best version of themselves. Stylists take time to understand who their clients are, how they live, and what they hope to achieve before recommending a cut or color. Amanda believes beauty should feel authentic, not dictated by social media, magazines, or artificial intelligence. The goal is for every guest to leave looking like themselves—only more confident.
The salon itself reflects that philosophy. Warm colors, inviting décor, and peaceful surroundings create an environment that welcomes clients of every age. Whether someone is looking for a dramatic transformation, a subtle refresh, or guidance while embracing gray hair, each stylist tailors the experience to the individual. Current trends are always considered, but they are adapted to complement each client's personality, facial features, and everyday routine.
"We keep people in the trends, but guide them toward which trends work with their lifestyles," Amanda says. "We want people to feel uplifted and empowered."
That welcoming atmosphere extends beyond the clientele. Both clients and stylists range in age from their 20s to their 70s, creating a diverse environment Amanda says developed naturally. The variety of personalities, experiences, and perspectives has become one of the salon's greatest strengths.
Each stylist also brings a unique specialty. Rather than relying on a single coloring or cutting technique, the team uses multiple approaches to achieve each client's desired result. Some guests visit for gray coverage or help transitioning away from color, while others seek custom blonding, dimensional brunettes, or bold transformations. Amanda says every stylist contributes a different perspective and niche, allowing the salon to offer personalized service regardless of a client's goals.
When it comes to current hair trends, Amanda believes timeless styles are making a strong comeback. Voluminous '90s blowouts, polished bobs, elegant French twists, and classic updos are once again finding their place in modern style. "Everything comes back around," she says. "It just takes some time."
As the seasons change, so do clients' preferences. During the fall, many people gravitate toward richer colors, softer tones, and polished styles with warmer, cozier vibes. Summer often inspires lighter colors, beachy highlights, and more effortless looks. Amanda notes that trends frequently mirror the weather, while social media continues to influence the inspiration clients bring into the salon.
Still, Amanda encourages clients to think beyond what is currently popular. Understanding how much time someone spends styling their hair each morning, how often they visit the salon, and what makes them feel most confident allows both the stylist and the client to determine the right look together.
For Amanda, however, beautiful hair is only part of the experience.
“We want a culture of kindness, community and giving back,” she says. “We want people who come in to feel like they are part of something.”
The team regularly supports Healing After Loss, a Clinton-based organization that helps families navigate the loss of a pregnancy or infant. The cause holds deep personal meaning for Amanda, who experienced the stillbirth of her daughter in 2023. She believes nearly everyone knows someone who has faced a similar loss and hopes the salon can offer support beyond its walls.
Moonstone Salon also participates in the Green Circle Salon program, which recycles materials that traditionally cannot be recycled, including foils, color tubes, excess hair color, plastics, and even hair clippings. Amanda proudly shares how many pounds of waste the salon diverts from landfills each month. "We try to do what we can," she says. "If we can, why not?"
Ready for a fresh look that feels like you? Book your personalized appointment at Moonstone Salon today. Call 908-735-7075 or visit moonstonesalonnj.glossgenius.com.
”The meaning behind the name perfectly represents what I wanted to create, balance, relaxation and feminine energy—that sums it up.” —Amanda McCaffrey.
“We keep people in the trends, but guide them toward which trends work with their lifestyles, we want people to feel uplifted and empowered.” —Amanda McCaffrey