Black Forest Salon under new ownership
By Deb Risden
EmaLee Risenhoover, Greg Cole and Julie Cole are the new owners of the Black Forest Salon. Risenhoover started working at the salon after she graduated from International Salon and Spa Academy in Colorado Springs almost four years ago. The Coles are Risenhoover’s parents and also investors in the business.
“My dad has owned a small business for many years,” Risenhoover said. “His business knowledge is very helpful to me.” Julie Cole works for El Paso County Colorado School District 49.
Risenhoover is a native of Colorado, growing up in Elbert. She recalled being part of the Black Forest community while growing up, attending the annual parade and church. Her parents and grandparents live in Black Forest. Risenhoover, who graduated from Falcon High School, is newly married and lives in Colorado Springs. Risenhoover said she and her parents have talked about owning a salon for many years. “I told the prior owner, Kelsey, that someday I wanted to own a salon,” she said. “In late April, she told me she was ready to sell. By the end of May, we completed the transaction.”
There are six stylists and one nail tech at Black Forest Salon. Services include cuts, perms, color, tinsel, shampoo and style and wedding updos. The salon’s nail tech offers manicures, pedicures and acrylic services. Risenhoover said the salon caters to their varied customer base, which includes women and men in all age groups. “Our youngest client is probably 4 years old and our oldest is 93,” she said.
Risenhoover has goals for the salon. She is planning to hire two more hair stylists as soon as possible. In January, she plans to hire a barber specializing in barber services for men. “I have a seven-year goal to open another shop, possibly in Falcon or Colorado Springs,” Risenhoover said.
The salon is located at 11580 Black Forest Road, Suite 40, and is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 719-495-2121 to schedule an appointment.
