Queenston Salon Studios

Queenston Salon Studios was founded in 2020 by cosmetologists Christy Viator and Maggie Hutto, who say they have more than 15 years of combined industry experience between them. Both founders trained at cosmetology school, hold cosmetology licenses, and have worked in salon and spa roles that include reception, assisting, management, teaching and styling.

The business is aimed at beauty professionals who want to start their own salon or spa business. Rather than running services under one roof, it rents private studios to members, who work independently in their own space. Members can choose to own a studio, share one with a studio mate, or take a suite or studio on rent.

The Barker Cypress location, at 12251 Queenston Boulevard, opened in October 2020 with 28 individual studios and was the original site. It sits less than half a mile off Highway 290, on the border of Cypress. The Gleannloch Farms location, at 19545 Champions Forest Drive in Spring, opened in April 2023 and has 37 studios plus two spa areas, each with four spa studios. Both buildings are private and are owned by the founders.

Each studio is private, with an individual lockable door that members can open 24 hours a day with a key. Studios include an individual security system, individual ventilation, custom blinds and corkwood flooring. A members lounge offers a coffee bar, a Keurig, a vending machine, complimentary laundry, water and ice, and a refrigerator, freezer and microwave. Members can use studios at either location.

Beyond space, the business guides members through setting up a salon or spa business. A one-on-one mentorship program, called QSS Set up for Success, gives private sessions with Christy Viator. Members also get access to the QSS Success app, which handles bookings, appointment reminders, a marketing system, revenue tracking and point of sale for participating members. Bookings made through the platform carry a $10 hold fee, charged 24 hours before the appointment and deducted from the service total at checkout; it is not charged if the appointment is cancelled beforehand. The business notes that its profit calculator is only a guideline, since rental rates vary by studio size and location. New members may receive complimentary weeks of rent while they settle in, plus bonus weeks during the tenancy.

The business positions itself as a support system for independent beauty professionals, combining private studio space with mentorship and business tools.

Private studios and shared common areas, with a members lounge and events held throughout the year.