Woman-owned businesses keep Clay House legacy alive
Studio 106 stylists strike a pose at their salon in Clay House at 16 Main St. Other businesses in Clay House are A Nurturing Moment, Jamie Willis Photography, Apollo Limo and Sassy Bo Spa and Makeup. (PHOTO/KEITH ZEMMES)
MADISON – Sarah Clay must be proud that her former home is thriving at 16 Main St. Clay House now is bustling with woman-owned businesses.
Studio 106 salon occupies most of the building. In the 1990s, Dana Burrows and Denise Swaney first opened their salon at 106 Main St. Today, the salon gives personal attention to clients with haircuts, perms, hair waxing, coloring and manicures. Appointments are open to women, men and children.
Other stylists are Sylina Cole, Tina Brooks, Tonya Crowe, Angie Raetz, Mary Ann Manchego and color specialist Heather Kent. Swaney is manicurist for the latest in nail color and patterns. Call 256-464-0017.
The newest business, Sassy Bo Spa and Makeup offers several facials, including the “lunch express” and micro-dermabrasion. Owner and esthetician Angie Raetz can accommodate special occasions with airbrush and special techniques or a spray tan. Call 256-503-2981.
A Nurturing Moment is a maternity and breastfeeding boutique dedicated to encouraging expectant and new parents. “We offer breastfeeding support in your home or our three offices as provided by International Board Certified Lactation Consultants,” Melissa Florence said. Call 256-658-8206.
Jamie Willis Photography specializes in taking photos of newborns, although she can help anyone with a special image. “Newborns require a special set of skills and a degree of patience that not every photographer possesses,” Willis said. Call 256-694-8296.
Robin Strickland with Apollo Limousine not only drives couples to weddings but gambling excursions to Tunica, Miss., couples celebrating anniversaries and Valentine’s Day dates in a fleet on Lincolns, Surburbans and vans. Call 256-325-LIMO.
Sarah Clay bought the home for $1,600 in gold. Circa 1850, Clay House was built in the era when James Clemens purchased adjacent land to establish Madison Station. Clay worked as a seamstress to support herself and young daughter.
In the 1990s, the late Robin Brewer resurrected the neglected property and helped boost downtown’s revitalization. Later, a ‘community of artists’ had working studios at their home, called “16 Main.”
