Way back when, it was the Warren Beatty flick Shampoo
that prompted Rick Fogarty to enter into the beauty industry. He had
visions of driving fancy cars, cutting the locks of gorgeous models,
and living the life of a playboy — until, while still studying the
craft, he met Judy, now his wife. Fast-forward through 20-plus years
(he’s vague about the “plus”), shears in hand, in the suburbs west of
Boston, to present-day Harvard Square, where the couple recently opened
Plan B (99 Mount Auburn Street, Cambridge, 617.54.PLANB), their first salon in Cambridge.
A
boutique-salon concept, Plan B keeps a sharp focus on Fogarty’s
passion: skillfully cut, no-frills hair. The small, clean-lined space
boasts ust three stylists’ chairs — though, urrently, Fogarty is
cutting and oloring solo — and minimalist white alls that, instead of
feeling stark, mpart a sense of calm upon entering. Long a proponent of
applying new technology in the salon, Fogarty prides himself on
exceptional, personalized service with an innovative twist:
complimentary 15-minute Skype video consultations that allow new
clients to hear his thoughts on their potential new ’dos.
When
asked about opening a business in these tough economic times, Fogarty
is quick to explain that great hair is a luxury that few are willing to
give up. However, with current and prospective clients in mind, he’s
offering what he calls “Plan B-enefits”: $10 off for referring a
friend; student discounts; complimentary bang trims; and, if you pay
for four of the same service in advance, 20 percent off the top.
Still
a newcomer in Cambridge (Plan B has been open for a couple of months
now), Fogarty is gradually building up his business, relying on his
talent as a stylist/colorist and word of mouth of his loyal clientele;
but he’s not in any hurry. He seems a sharp contrast to the ego and
drama so prevalent in his industry. He settled on his new location, far
from the saturated market and inflated rents of Newbury Street, for a
reason. In our view, he’s the one to turn to when you’re in need of a
new look, a break from all the pretense, and some fresh perspective: in
other words, the ideal “Plan B.”
