Inspire Beauty salon opens in Church Hill

CHURCH HILL, Tenn. (WCYB) — After being inspired by her son, who was diagnosed with autism at age 4, Candice Barker opened up her salon Inspire Beauty, which is a sensory friendly salon for children who may need a little extra love and care when it comes to their haircuts.

Even getting a haircut can be a daunting experience for some, but Barker says her salon aims to cater to sensory needs for both children and adults.

And while the salon is sensory friendly, Barker welcomes anyone and everyone to visit her salon.

Some kids and some adults with autism specifically but other special needs, they have issues with the lights, the sounds, in a salon and everything,” says Barker. “So, it was just a thought in my mind.

She says after previous experiences with her son Jace, she realized this type of salon was needed.

The biggest thing is support-- they need it and I need it as well,” adds Barker. “Going in somewhere where they can feel comfortable and don't have to apologize for how their kids are acting because of their special needs.

Jace is now 9 years old, and Barker tells me he is her biggest inspiration for her salon and continues to work with him on ways to grow together.

Not changing him but changing us and how we do things to help him cope and thrive and do great and be successful.

She adds not many people realize what may seem simple to them, like bright lights, be a trigger for others.

Barker says she is grateful to have a business that brings an environment where people and families can find comfort.

They have no idea like why kids screaming at a store when it could just be the lights in the store or just because their clothes are hurting them or whatever,” says Barker. “They don't understand that at all but just people coming in here and understanding and growing a community that understands."

Inspire Beauty offers haircuts, styling, and coloring, but barker plans to add more services in the future. If you'd like to visit the salon in Church Hill, you can find that information here.