According to owner Wendy Arthur, the best way to describe The Humble Peacock Salon and Spa in Morristown is “divinely inspired.”
The calm and relaxing atmosphere of the salon provides a great place for a staycation, Arthur told Morristown Area Chamber of Commerce ambassadors during its ribbon cutting held Oct. 24.
“We proved happy, upbeat, encouraging and professional service. This is the place to slow down, relax and unwind,” Arthur said.
The historical 1905 Victorian-era home has an atmosphere of laid-back Southern style and grace that includes décor and furnishings appropriate for the well-maintained structure. Arthur spent months working on the unique touches that give each room a disntictive flair.
Spa services include European facials, waxing, ion detox foot bath and more from Arthur, who is a state certified esthetician (skin coach).
David Kimball and Melinda Carter are master hair stylists, with many years of experience. Their services include cuts, styles, color Brazilian blowouts and more.
Carter has been a stylist since 1993. She is originally from Morristown, then moved in 2004 to the Mississippi Gulf Coast and returned a year ago. She began working with Arthur in March.
“It’s like she and David and I have always known each other,” Carter said.
Carter worked with Kimball at a local salon before following him to The Humble Peacock — “This place is just too cool,” she said. The two stylists share the room just left of the foyer that is flanked by the generous front porch. Across the hall is the exquisitely furnished parlor that serves as the waiting area.
Kimball has been a stylist for 38 years, with a devoted clientele.
“I was looking for something smaller and more intimate that was quality driven, instead of a larger place with hustle and bustle, “Kimball said. “I wanted to relax and spend more time with my clients. I love it here; it’s the best move I ever did.”
As for Carter, he said, “She is the only person I know that I trust with my clients, if I can’t get them in.”
Deep tissue massage and hot stone massage are among the many services provided by professional massage therapist Cindy Brown. She is state certified and licensed and has been massaging for nearly eight years.
“All winter long, I had been watching the progress on the house,” Brown said. “Where I was working was more of a clinical atmosphere, and I wanted to work out of a place that felt more like home. It feels like you’re coming home when you walk in the front door; it’s more of a relaxing atmosphere. It makes my job easier when the client are calm.”
Arthur said of Cindy – “She helps you deal with the stressful world we all live in now, and she’s very good at it.”
“This is a great occasion,” Chamber Chairman Chris Horn said. “We always enjoy cutting ribbons and helping new businesses get started; and we are delighted that you all are a part of the Chamber and a part of the community. We are really impressed with your building. I have an affinity for older homes and it’s a great facility. You all meet a tremendous need in the community.”
“We are located in the very heart of Morristown, so it should be easy for everyone to find us,” Arthur said. “My staff are what make The Humble Peacock awesome; the facility is great, but the people are even better.”
The salon is located at 815 W. First Main St. and opened in March after Arthur put her touches on the home. Just a month ago, the last of the original fireplaces was opened up from behind a wall and a new mantle was installed.
Arthur lives in the upstairs rooms, while four of the five downstairs rooms are used for the business. — “My daughter goes to school near here. I love her school, and I don’t want to switch her out. Even though we have another place, I want to stay here,” she said.
Although the structural condition of the home was good, all of the lighting has been replaced, in order for the staff to offer services. The wood flooring in the downstairs rooms was refinished by Brown.
New wallpaper was installed in Fuller’s work area, along with the peacock film that covers the original windows. The room also features the only remaining original light fixture that includes four clear glass pendants, each in the shape of a cluster of grapes.
Hours at the salon are by appointment. Staff can be reached by calling 423-438-8892.