David and Scott Menzies are marking 40 years in business at their Queen St. salon Back in the mid-60s, when David Menzies managed the meat department at Brooklin IGA he never dreamed of being involved in a local business to the third genera- tion. At age 20, he had just graduated from hairdressing school and celebrated with a vacation at Wasaga Beach with friends. On his return to Port Perry, his parents, Ar- chie and Helen informed him that they had rented the store at their current location (257 Queen Street) to open. a beauty shop. It opened under the name ‘Helen & David’s’ starti: the summer of 1967. Three years later, Helen retired, but continued to style hair from her home on Rosa Street for many years. David utilized his experience at an Uxbridge salon, his creative passion and several renovations over the years to build up a loyal customer following under the name ‘David's’. Tn 1994, his son Scott graduated from his hairdress- ing studies to join his father’s operation. “We had always bonded over sports, but working together, coaching hockey together and living together made for some challenges in the beginning,” says Scott with a broad in. “Yes,” agrees David, “but it’s been such a fulfilling experience working with Scott. It’s allowed us to embellish our relationship in a totally different area.” At the 40-year mark, David is participating in the operation called ‘Menzies Salon & Spa’ (the 800 square foot spa was added three years ago) at a more relaxed pace, and will eventually move the business into Scott’s capable hands. “I was never much of a school guy growing up; a little artsy and fashion-conscious. Everyday here is different and I love the energy that comes from working with people,” he explains. With competition from some dozen salons plus Lakewinds within the confines of a small town, it’s a real testament to their 4 FOCUS -JULY 2007 Photo by J.P. Hvidsten business acumen to have succeeded for 40 years. “It’s always tougher in a service industry than when you're simply selling a product,” says Scott. “You need to maintain a high and consistent level of service.” During the month of July, Menzies is sharing gifts with a 15% savings on all services (excluding David’s). “We're so excited about this milestone that we want to honour our loyal clientele,” says Scott. To which David adds, “I've met such wonderful and supportive people over the years. Port Perry is the place to be.” Check www.menziessalonspa.com, call 905-985-7101 or email menzies@powergate.ca. By Barbara Hunt ITH ANNUAL Locared on isiarai fii, Post Parry — Pow Wow Groumets are T iow peast ate Great Blue Heren = ELY NO ALCGHOL -RODRUGS- ED PERE focus@observerpub.ca