Self-Care Rye: Meet Danny Babayev of Elegance Salon
Self-Care Rye is an occasional feature where we meet the people in Rye that take care of each of us – making us look and feel good. Do you have a suggestion for a hair or nail salon or barber shop we should profile? – tell us. Today meet Danny Babayev of Elegance Salon.
Your Name: Danny Babayev
Your Role: Owner, Elegance Salon
MyRye.com: How long has your business been in Rye, and where are you located?
Babayev: The flagship salon, located at 62 Purchase Street in Rye, opened in January 2018. Our smaller, boutique location at 137 Mamaroneck Avenue in Mamaroneck, opened in June 2021.
Describe your clientele.
Babayev: The salon has attracted a vibrant, fashion-forward clientele composed of local Rye residents, as well as residents from surrounding sound shore communities and Manhattan. Although we specialize in corrective and creative color and adult haircuts and styles, we welcome clients of all ages and count many families among our loyal clientele.
Describe the environment in your salon.
Babayev: Located in the heart of Rye, the salon is part of a vibrant, downtown community. Its large, expansive windows overlook Purchase Street and keep the salon plugged into the town’s dynamic energy. Inside, the salon’s charcoal-colored floors and white and grey palette convey a sense of high-end luxury, while the staff’s professional demeanor and easy going style convey a sense of relaxation and warmth.
Tell us about the array of services you offer.
Babayev: The salon offers a full array of hair salon services, including corrective and creative coloring, foil and balayage highlighting, precision haircutting, deep conditioning treatments, smoothing treatments, extensions and make-up. Future plans include an expansion into a variety of med spa services.
Tell us about you.
Babayev: I grew up in the hair salon business! My parents are both hairdressers who opened their first salon in Queens when I was just a baby. My brother and I both followed in their footsteps, opening our own salons at early ages. I sometimes feel that hairdressing is part of my DNA! I have always loved the challenging and creative nature of the craft and the friendship and comradery fostered among clients and staff. There’s no better feeling than knowing that you’ve helped transform someone’s appearance and given them the confidence to step out into the world looking and feeling their best!
Tell us about your staff.
Babayev: I can’t say enough about my staff! I’ve been really fortunate to have attracted (and built!) a talented, creative staff dedicated to the hairdressing craft. Each one of them is highly skilled and experienced. Their expertise is a big part of what makes us a stellar salon.
When you finish your day, or finish your week, how do you take care of yourself?
Babayev: Spending time with my family is my favorite pastime when I’m away from work. My wife, Jennifer and I welcomed our first child, a son, earlier this year, so being home is just a fun place to be. Of course, I have other interests. My wife and I both love exploring the local restaurant scene, and traveling (along with its amazing cuisines!) has always been an interest of ours. We honeymooned in Greece and Italy and try to escape to a warm, tropical environment whenever we can.
Thanks Danny!
