As many of your know, while planning on moving back to the East Coast in January 2009, I almost decided to settle in Philadelphia. While I chose to go back to Connecticut instead, I came across a whole host of sustainable Philly businesses during my research. One of the most distinctive locations I stumbled upon was Juju Salon & Spa, which “provides all-natural, non-toxic and organic professional body products and services.”

Knowing that sustainable hair and spa services can be few and far between, I jumped at the chance to interview Juju’s founder, Juliene Ebner.  Started in 2005, with the spa added in 2007, Juju has been a pioneer in the ongoing eco-transformation of Philly. With numberous online and local awards, and an online retail eco-shop coming in 2009, Juju Salon & Spa is a great example of a green business making a true name of themselves.

Whether you live in the Philadelphia area or not, I am sure you will enjoy my interview with Juju’s founder, Juliene. We had the chance to chat about beauty brands, the benefits of eco-salons, unique events, and more!

Victoria Everman: What first inspired you to open a salon, let alone an “organic” one?

Juliene Ebner: Simply put, it was a no-brainer.  Using organic, non-toxic products, in a friendly, non-intimidating environment, was the only way to go!

After 2 years, you opening a spa to accompany the salon – was that a natural expansion of the business for you?

Yes.  My loyal and wonderful clients kept asking “Where can I get a facial that’s organic…”  They definitely aren’t the medi-spa types!  Our spa is botox-free and more!

Along with using organic products, what makes Juju Salon & Spa eco-friendly?

Wind-powered electricity, membership in local sustainable organizations, i.e. Philadelphia’s Sustainable Business Network, serving only filtered water (no bottled water here!) and organic teas, using non-toxic, earth-friendly cleaning products, hiring local, green contractors…big, blue recycling bins EVERYWHERE!  The list is endless.

Juju also hosts events, workshops and exhibits – how do you select what who/what to feature for guests?

Hanging an organic sign lures a bunch of interesting people – with amazing talents!  Upcoming events will include a Classical Indian music concert (tabla and sitar), a Bach Flower Remedy workshop and meditation classes.

Are there any other eco-options you hope to add to Juju?

Yes – I’m dying to host a clothing swap – with juju staff and  clients, soon….and, we have an impromptu baby/toddler clothing exchange already in existence that I’d like to take to a more organized level, a clothesline for our towels….and, though not an obvious eco-cause, raise money and bring heightened awareness to the plight of retired greyhounds.  When a society cannot respect its animals, how can it tend to the rest of its environment?  We recently rescued a retired racer, named Neshi.

Have you ever received any negative feedback from customers? What are some of the nicest, most surprising things you ever heard from customers?

We’ve not received any memorable negative feedback directly.  I’m hoping the public doesn’t think we’re simply “green” for marketing purposes, i.e. greenwashing, etc.  Our patrons always arrive and leave with good wishes.  We’ve been able to soothe and help nurture those clients that are physically compromised (cancer, chemo, auto-immune issues) with our natural, organic and non-toxic products and services.

Why should people seek out an all-natural, “organic” salon?

The obvious trio: to maintain and achieve better health, to be socially responsible and to look great!

What are some of your favorite products that Juju sells?

Morocco Method, Sevi Organics, Aromabliss …

Where do you see Philadelphia on an environmental scale from 1-10 (1 being the worst, most polluted)? How is the eco-community in Philly working to make city-wide changes?

5.  Unfortunately, with the economy as it is, and Philadelphia being hard hit and needing a financial bail-out, city-wide eco projects may be at a standstill.  That’s not to say that Philadelphia doesn’t have a 1st class recycling system, many community gardens and green landscaping projects in the works.

[Image courtesy of Juju Salon and Spa]

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