Since he’s presumably going to be very busy, not only styling hair, but managing people and the business, what about a gift certificate to a favorite take-out restaurant or maybe for a massage?

I hope Yayagal sees this. She owned a hair salon, I think.

oly I've been thinking about the restaurant idea (not sure massage would be a fit) and it's my safety gift if I can't come up with a 'thing' to give. For some reason I'm stuck on it being an actual thing, don't know why. Will reconsider obv if the right 'thing' doesn't come to me or get suggested.

Zalco that's right - I'd forgotten and I think there was someone else in the business as well.

tapping toes waiting.....

I know you said not a plant...but a lucky bamboo or Chinese money plant seems sort of perfect.

Not knowing your target gift-budget range, here are some ideas:

-New sets of towels that go with the new salon decor. Hair salons go through lots of towels every day.

-A gift certificate to the local beauty supply house he uses for shop supplies, (OK to ask directly)

- A new broom + standup dust pan to sweep the floor between clients

- A case of spray disinfectant that some salons use on chairs and sinks between clients

- A new vacuum cleaner for end-of-day chores

- A certificate for new business cards, brochures, personalized customer swag of some sort

- Since you mentioned his remodel skills, maybe a Home Depot/Lowes gift card

- If you notice a possible space for it, a beautiful tray with a lovely candle, plant, ornament

You are so sweet and kind to think of him with such support. Good luck with a decision that works for you!

Oh, I know and this is the perfect time to buy one. A largish leather bound day planner of good quality for scheduling appointments, etc. Big enough to make a statement.

Does the space need any art? Maybe you can find a print, watercolor or painting and frame it for one of his walls. Maybe you know of some random things he loves. He might love certain artists (music) or a certain time period. I have some various online stores that have all kind of original and unique items.

@Fun2BHere those plants are a great idea and I love the symbolism.

@smiling that's a great list of ideas! Love the certificate for new business cards. That's something I've been bugging him about, too.

@Oakley you and I are on the same wavelength - trust was the first thing I thought of but the young stylists do everything online now. He has never kept any client info on paper.

@amykath I hadn't considered art but he has some framed vintage posters so that might be a possibility.

Thanks all - I was coming up blank have lots of great ideas to consider now.

I would have a nice sign made for his shop.

Champagne!?

To be brutally honest, that's stupid not to have backup on paper. lol Maybe one with a lock? ;)

I can't think of anything off hand, but it would be nice if it were something he could keep to remember this time. Congrats to him!

I have followed my stylist to three salons.

She loves these: https://eyevac.com/professional-use/

@gracefullyaged that's pretty cool!