HeadFirst - On the Move, And Growing

It's About Balance

Sturbridge, MA – Sixteen years ago Rachel Thibert and Candy Soper worked side-by-side at a local hair salon. The women shared a dream of having salons of their own and, in1994, Rachel Thibert set out to make her dream a reality, opening HeadFirst in Sturbridge. The business flourished, with Thibert as the sole proprietor. Now, eleven years later, Thibert is relocating the salon to 450 Main Street in Fiskdale, and Candy Soper is joining her as co-owner of the business. Their partnership, sixteen years in the making, exemplifies a perfect balance between long-time friends.

"Last fall, I was doing hair and make-up for Stageloft Repertory Theater," Soper said. "Ed Cornely mentioned that a space was opening in the 450 Main Street building. I thought it was a perfect spot to set up my own hair salon, yet I didn’t want to go it alone."

Knowing that Thibert was interested in relocating HeadFirst, Soper wondered if her friend would be "interested in taking on a partner. We both have young children and by partnering, sharing the responsibilities, we’d each have more time for our families."

Thibert had not been thinking about a partnership, but when Soper broached the idea, "I knew it was worth consideration," Thibert said." I’d been thinking about scaling back, moving to a smaller space." The timing, at last, was right.

Their years of friendship made the decision easier. "For any partnership to work there has to be a balance. Candy’s strength, energy, and steadfast independence works with me. They’re traits I admire in her."

Soper concurred. "Rachel exudes an ease and calm that makes for a good balance. She’s a business owner that has survived all the odds; a true inspiration to me."

With so many hair salons transforming into upscale day spas, Thibert and Soper share a more traditional vision for HeadFirst. "Our emphasis is on hair design and color. Our clients range in age from two to ninety-five. Some want creative and innovative styles, others want to maintain a more traditional look. We can handle it all," said Thibert.

The location and look of the salon may have changed, but the business remains the same. HeadFirst offers hair design and specialty perming, coloring–including highlighting and foiling, and facial waxing. Appointments are encouraged and walk-ins are always welcome.

"Rachel created a place where customers feel like family. We’re like-minded in our care and concern for our clients. Having a warm, comfortable, friendly atmosphere is important to us."

 HeadFirst’s clientele is multi-generational. High school seniors who came to Thibert in 1994 now bring their children to her for haircuts. "I’m blessed to be able to do what I love," Thibert said. "For me, success is measured on many levels. And now, to have a business partner who feels the same, who ‘gets it,’ is incredible."

While some partnerships are more of a "balancing act," Rachel Thibert and Candy Soper have found a perfect balance.

HeadFirst, 450 Main Street, Fiskdale, MA 01518. Tel. 508-347-3378. Hours of operation: Monday – Saturday by appointment. Evening appointments and walk-ins welcome.