Alberta loosening restrictions on Monday: salons, tattoo parlours can reopen

EDMONTON (CityNews) – When the Alberta government announced it would be easing some health restrictions across the province, Leslie Boss’ phone started ringing off the hook.

Boss is part-owner of The Extensionist, a hair salon with locations in Edmonton, Calgary and Kelowna. Starting Monday, the salon can reopen – by appointment only – under Alberta’s new loosened restrictions.

It’s the first time in a month the salon will be open to customers.

“I watched the announcement and I was just over the moon,” said Boss. “And that’s when the craziness started, with the flood of incoming client calls. I was really excited. I was dancing around.”

All personal and wellness services – which includes hair salons, nail salons and tattoo parlours – will be reopening in Alberta.

Meanwhile outdoor social gatherings, which were previously banned, will be allowed in groups of up to 10 people. And the limit on the number of people who can attend funerals is increasing to 20, although receptions are still prohibited.

Boss’ salon is one of many that spent the last few days prepping for the big day.

The Extensionist specializes in helping people who suffer from hair loss – whether it be from cancer treatments, alopecia, stress or other illnesses.

Boss says her salon is a place where people who are feeling down can go to feel beautiful.

“I know a lot of people are like, ‘oh it’s just hair,’ but for us and our clients, when they’ve suffered not having their hair, it’s more than just hair. It’s for their mental state.”

And while Boss is rejoicing, there’s always a worry in the back of her mind given the uncertainty related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our main concern is getting shut down again,” she said. “So we’re hoping everyone across the board who’s allowed to open does so safely. I also hope clients are fluid with us, and we’re going to try our best to be there for them as much as possible.”

–with files from The Canadian Press