News Summary
Norayne Simkins, a Milwaukee native, has opened her second Noryane’s Studio Salon in St. Petersburg, Florida, marking an important milestone in her career. Following the success of her first salon in Chicago, Simkins aims to provide a wide range of hair care services while fostering a welcoming environment. Her journey from a small-start salon in Chicago to opening in St. Petersburg illustrates her dedication to beauty and client care, as well as her commitment to community involvement and personal growth.
St. Petersburg Welcomes New Noryane’s Studio Salon
On January 7, 2025, Norayne Simkins, a Milwaukee native, opened the doors to her second location of Noryane’s Studio Salon in St. Petersburg, Florida. This expansion comes 18 years after the launch of her first salon in Chicago, which she established on the same date in 2007. The new salon aims to offer a variety of hair care services while continuing Simkins’ commitment to making clients feel beautiful.
A Journey from Chicago to St. Petersburg
Simkins discovered her passion for cosmetology unexpectedly at the age of 22 while performing household chores. Upon finding an apprenticeship opportunity in a magazine and receiving encouragement from her mother, she successfully secured a position that would set her on a professional path. Though she had the option to build a career in major cities such as New York and California, Simkins chose Chicago in 2005, drawn by its proximity to her hometown, Milwaukee.
The Chicago location of Noryane’s Studio Salon was situated in Lincoln Park, where Simkins began her journey by bringing a few of her clients from her previous job while simultaneously working hard to develop her clientele from scratch. The process of opening her salon was daunting, but her determination led to a successful venture. Over the years, her work expanded beyond her salon as she began alternating between salon services and television and film work starting in 2011. Her credits include popular series such as “Chicago P.D.” and “Chicago Fire.”
Personal Growth and New Beginnings
During her career, Simkins experienced notable moments, including working with celebrities like John Cusack and Carrie Fisher. However, following personal hardships, including the passing of her aunt, she and her husband decided to relocate to St. Petersburg, where they now reside for ten months of the year. This change of scenery has allowed Simkins to branch out and open her second salon location.
Beyond Hair: Creative Endeavors
In addition to her work in hairstyling, Simkins co-authored a children’s book entitled “Beware of Bumblebees,” published in the previous year. The book delves into themes of happiness and sadness through the unique concept of words spelled backward. This project was especially meaningful, as her mother, Judy Lynn Deters, had co-authored the manuscript prior to her passing from cancer in 2002. Simkins found her mother’s manuscript amidst old boxes after her aunt’s funeral, providing an opportunity for a posthumous collaboration.
Salon Services and Client Care
Noryane’s Studio Salon in St. Petersburg offers a range of services, including haircuts, highlights, lowlights, hair extensions, and Global Keratin treatments. Simkins emphasizes her role as a “hair doctor,” dedicated to understanding and addressing her clients’ needs. Clients can also enjoy complimentary services such as bang and neck trims, as well as refreshments and warm lavender towels to enhance their experience.
Creating a positive atmosphere within her salon is essential to Simkins, as she encourages clients to express their individuality. Inspired by her mother to appreciate both nature and life, her past experiences, including attending music festivals and observing wildlife, have cultivated her vision for a welcoming and nurturing salon environment.
Community Impact and Future Aspirations
As Simkins embarks on this new chapter in St. Petersburg, she looks forward to establishing strong connections within the community while continuing to inspire and uplift her clients. By offering exceptional hair care services and promoting positive experiences, she aims to make Noryane’s Studio Salon a cornerstone of beauty and self-expression in the area.
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Additional Resources
- The Gabber: Norayne Simkins – Film Industry Hair Stylist with a St. Pete Salon
- Wikipedia: Hair Stylist
- St. Pete Catalyst: St. Pete Mourns Rock-n-Roll Hairstylist Mimi Reilly
- Google Search: Hair Stylist News
- ABC Action News: Young St. Pete Hair Stylist Diagnosed with Cancer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hairdressing
- The Weekly Challenger: Deanie K’s Hair Salon – End of an Era
- Google News: Hair Salons in St. Petersburg
