A luxury barbershop that also aims that also features an autism-friendly play area has opened in Watford’s shopping centre.
Esla Man & Kids in atria Watford is jointly run by a Bushey husband and wife who have lived in the area for 20 years.
Unlike traditional barbershops, the new venue, which opened on Friday (August 19) hopes to engage children who can find being in such an environment difficult with an eye-catching colourful play area and sensory toys.
Mo, one of the owners, said: “We found that our youngest child really struggled with strangers and new places after lockdown, and we knew that having a play area would help ease the fear of new places for them.
“We also decorated with very calming colours and sensory toys to promote an autism-friendly space as a lot of our customers mention how much their autistic children struggle to go to traditional barbers.”
A young girl donating her hair to the Little Princess Trust was among the first customers, as she wished to support children dealing with cancer.
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Mo added: “We had choices in other locations to open our first branch, but we really wanted it to be in Atria as our local shopping centre.
“To be honest, every team and department in Atria and even Watford Council has been extremely friendly and accommodating and have helped us immensely along the way.”
The manager has more than ten years’ experience with barbershops and the stylists are described as “friendly and patient”.
Along with the area dedicated to children, Esla is said to also offer a “luxury” service to men including traditional cuts, beard shaping and facials.
Mo said: “Since opening, the response by our customers has blown us away. We have been consistently fully booked since we have been open.
“We have had several families in with autistic children who have praised our calm and friendly staff and environment and have said this is the first place their children have actually loved to go to!”
Bookings can be made instore and online at eslahair.com.
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