Sue Giulian knew that she had to do something with the space at 150 W. Yosemite Ave. in the heart of Manteca after her husband retired and the dentist that followed him built his own building.

So she got an idea, rolled up her sleeves, and in five weeks converted the vacant office into something that she believes will be a big part of the downtown business community.

Downtown Chic Salon and Spa – an upscale salon that aims to cater to their clients and offer all of the services that they may need in a single place – was born.

“I’ve been trying to find a local hairdresser since mine retired two years ago, and I’ve heard that a lot of women are going out of town to get that need met,” Giulian said. “I want to keep Manteca money right here in Manteca. I thought that we could provide a service to those women that could allow them to come downtown and get the services they desire.”

The business, which opened to the public last week, will host their open house on Saturday, May 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Investing in the community, said the longtime local business owner, is something that’s important to not only the business side of the town but the city itself, and Giulian knew that she wanted something that she could manage.

Not having any background in the beauty business, she tapped nine local women – five hair designers, two estheticians, a massage therapist and a manicurist/pedicurist – to round out a qualified staff to handle the day-to-day in the upscale space that boasts free parking and refreshments such as wine, champagne, soft drinks and water for clients.

And since they’re open seven days a week and have a staff that are flexible and willing to schedule early morning or evening appointments, Giulian believes that the customers will be able to enjoy the convenience that comes with getting pampered.

“There are lots of things that we’re able to do here with the space that we have, and we think that our clients will really enjoy that,” Giulian said. “We’re able to do everything for brides on their wedding day, and we’re planning on offering Princess Parties for girls and Ladies Night Out parties for women who want to come down and have a good time with other women.

“We want people to know that they don’t have to go out of town to have a good time.”

Downtown Chic Salon and Spa is located at 150 W. Yosemite Ave. and can be reached at 823-1600. The business offers massages, esthetician services such as facials, eyelash extensions and more, hair coloring, cuts, and extensions, and a manicure/pedicure station. Boutique items are also available.