Sarah Iverson has always had a creative side. Described by others as ambitious, goal-driven, bold, and spontaneous, she’s not one to shrink away from challenge. In her salon sits a sign bearing the quote, “She turned her can’ts into cans and her dreams into plans.” The simple statement is a testament to what Iverson has done since starting her business, Corner Cuts Salon, in late 2017.
Growing up on a farm outside of Dover, it wasn’t until she was a junior attending Dover-Eyota High School, when the world of cosmetology peaked her interest and provided an vision for her creativity. “I wasn’t sure exactly how to apply it to everyday life until I found cosmetology,” she says. “I had a friend that kind of took me under her wing and showed me what being a hairstylist was all about. I guess that’s when I really knew.”
The path eventually led Iverson to study at Nova School for Cosmetology, where she earned her certification and licensure in cosmetology and hair design. Paying her dues to the industry, Iverson quickly worked her way up from retail chain-salon Cost Cutters. Within two years, she found herself at a private salon in Dover and then at Aspasia Salon & Spa in St. Charles, where she spent another few years.
Always tugging at her thoughts was a dream to start her own salon. “I worried that I wasn’t going to be able to please everyone,” she says. “There’s always the ‘what ifs’ that run through your head.” The hope that the decision could bring success in all angles of her life prevailed. “I’m going to spread my wings. I’m starting my dream,” she remembers thinking.
Hurdles still lay before her, but it didn’t take long for all the pieces to line up. “I kind of fell into this location,” she recalls. “I was going to purchase a salon a few buildings up, but when that fell through my aunt suggested that I look into the building on the corner.” That corner of Main and Second Streets, as it turns out, had been a former dental office, vacant since 2011. “I was kind of a blessing in disguise,” says Iverson. “It really wasn’t available, but I talked to the owners of the building and told them what I had in mind.” The owners liked the idea so much they helped Iverson find the right direction.
Initially, the plan was to rent the lower half of the two-story building, hoping to perhaps purchase the site down the road. With a little help from the Chatfield Economic Development Authority and F & M Bank, Iverson was able to purchase the building at 226 South Main Street sooner than expected. “I am very thankful for the help. Another little blessing in disguise,” she smiles.
Following the sale closing in August, Iverson and her husband, Tanner, and two sons, Wyatt and Ryder, the family wasted no time transforming the building’s interior. “It was very mixed feelings; extreme excitement, but nervous because this was a big jump for me and my family,” she recalls. “I had a lot of support from family and friends.”
The first floor was overhauled, giving the place a modern overhaul, but Iverson’s plans called for retaining the individual room structure of the office to create more privacy, comfort, and future options for customers. “We set each room up as a little salon itself, so it’s more personable when you’re working with your client,” she notes. In doing so, she sees also options for future services beyond what she already offers.
“I do it all: colors, cuts, perms, facial waxing, body waxing, and wedding styles. I hope to get an esthetician to do facials, eventually get a massage therapist in here, a few other stylists, and maybe even a nail technician for manicures and pedicures,” she enthuses. Short on spirit, she is not. “My future plan is to get booth rentals inside my business, helping them start their own small business out of mine.”
“From buying the building to officially opening my salon doors and now I’m a landlord to top it all off,” Iverson laughs. “It has been a very eventful past few months, but I wouldn’t want it any other way.
Iverson officially opened her doors August 29 and business has been booming since. For more information about the Corner Cuts Salon or to schedule an appointment, call (507) 867-0076 or visit www.facebook.com/CornerCuts2017.