Oasis Salon & Beauty Lounge at 307B Irvington Avenue in South Orange had a big weekend.
Despite the fact that Oasis has been in operation since July 11, owner and operator Ana Dunkers hosted a two-day Grand Opening Event this weekend with a cocktail party on Friday, September 5 and a full day of events on Saturday, September 6.
Village Trustees Walter Clarke, Howard Levison, Stephen Schnall, Sheena Collum, Deborah Davis Ford; Village President Alex Torpey; SOVCA Executive Director Bob Zuckerman; Irvington Avenue Corridor Advistory Committee member Doug Zacker and more showed up for the ribbon cutting on Saturday at noon.
Oasis offers a comprehensive suite of beauty services including hair, nails, waxing, threading, makeup and beauty products.
Owner and operator Ana Dunkers, a Newark native, is a Seton Hall University graduate with a degree in Business Finance.
“I’ve returned back to my college town after raising my daughter, who is now a sophomore in college,” Dunkers told The Village Green back in July.
“Oasis is located within walking distance of Seton Hall which is one of the reasons I chose Irvington Avenue,” explained Dunkers, “along with the convenience of parking, the safety of area, the attractiveness of the store front location, and the combination of residences and businesses for neighbors.”
And Seton Hall will feel the benefit of Oasis in a special way: Seton Hall students and alumni are eligible for a Seton Hall discount.
Along with that business degree, Dunkers is getting support from a long line of family members with experience in the beauty business. “I am a first-time business owner and have opened this as a family business with primary support from my aunt, who has been a beautician for almost 40 years, along with my father and mother.”
Dunkers is looking beyond basic hair and beauty appointments for business. Oasis will also host special events such as a bridal showers or ladies nights — catering and cocktails included. (Clients can book through the Oasis facebook page).
“We want to transform hair and nail care by offering women a true beauty experience. We’ve built a family of experienced stylists who are dedicated to providing our clients with prompt, high quality, comprehensive beauty services in a professional, relaxed and inviting atmosphere,” said Dunkers.
And Dunkers is looking to serve the diversity of our community, serving “women with all types of hair texture, style, and needs.”
Dunkers is also stressing service and a luxurious experience: “At Oasis, it’s all about the complete beauty experience. It’s more than just getting your hair or nails done. We use the best products, offer complimentary beauty maintenance products, and provide continuous education to each client to help achieve their beauty goals.”
South Orange Village Trustee Sheena Collum, who is a Trustee liaison on the Irvington Avenue Corridor Advisory Committee, said that the town is “thrilled” to see Oasis open on Irvington Avenue. “This is a great addition to Irvington Avenue,” said Collum, “and we’re so happy to see a business owner like Ana join us.”
The business adds to the vibe of excitement on Irvington Avenue where new hanging baskets and plantings, new businesses and redevelopment studies are inspiring new investment.
Oasis Salon & Beauty Lounge, 307B Irvington Avenue in South Orange, NJ, www.oasis-beauty.com, 973.821.5522, oasisbeautylounge@yahoo.com
