“I feel like people think starting something is a lot more complicated than it really is, and it really just takes being brave and doing it,” said Doughlena Irwin. “And having good support around you, too,” added her sister, Ashlee Cupp. Doughlena and Ashlee are co-owners and operators of Salon 92, located at 712 S. South Street in Wilmington. The salon, named after their late sister’s birth year, opened on August 22nd of this year, honoring her birthday. She tragically passed away from a drug overdose, instilling in Doughlena and Ashlee how valuable life is because it can be “taken very quickly.”
The sisters grew up between the Cincinnati and Wilmington areas. Ashlee became a stylist upon her high school graduation, after attending cosmetology school. Doughlena first became a banker and was taking steps to become a mortgage lender. However, upon the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Doughlena needed a different schedule to care for her daughter. Ashlee encouraged her to pursue cosmetology. Once both sisters were active stylists, Doughlena encouraged the two to begin their own hair salon.
With the help of their family, the two refinished and decorated the building they are currently in to create Salon 92. The salon features neutral, welcoming decor, creating a “comfortable space” for both genders. Ashlee specializes in men’s haircuts and offers a unique spa treatment after the haircut. In addition to washing, drying, and styling the hair, she provides a scalp massage, a hot facial towel, and a back and shoulder massage. Doughlena specializes in color, bridal styles, and curly hair. Despite offering similar services to other local salons, Doughlena believes her honesty and care for clients set her apart.
In addition to their work at the salon, Doughlena and Ashlee hope to host events around their salon in the future to help people suffering from addiction. The two emphasized the importance of empathy and compassion for people regardless of their labels.
Learn more about Salon 92 by visiting their page on Facebook or listen to Doughlena and Ashlee’s’ full story on episode 59 of The Real Change Podcast.