Treat yourself to Holly James Salon and Spa, a welcomed addition to Parkplace, and get some much needed pampering during the holidays.

Owners Holly and James Bernstrom display their passion to have the best salon and spa, from the store’s design to the welcoming atmosphere. “We did everything ourselves,” says Holly, “including the floor, the painting and the decorating, all in 12- hour shifts.”

She is a hands-on owner, specializing in hair. He is a manager for a medical company, and acts as handyman and part-time receptionist for the salon.

Now that Holly James has been up and running for several months, the kudos are pouring in.

“I had been eyeing this place as it was going in, because I go to Hot Yoga here in Parkplace, then I head to Emerald City Smoothies, I hit Noah’s Bagels and drop off my photos at Kits. It’s the perfect addition to my little circuit,” says a return customer.

“I’ve been in England for a year,” says Kelsey Amble, freshly coiffed after an appointment at Holly James. “I’ve had many haircuts around here now and Holly James is the best.”

Holly has a decade of experience in the beauty industry, working for herself in other salons in Idaho, Arizona and here on the Eastside. “I was 19 when I went to beauty school,” she says, “Opening my own salon is my dream. I still have to pinch myself.”

So as far as that dream goes, move over, Martha Stewart. From the dark woods and deep, soothing green tones of the décor, to the all–natural products offered, Holly has the creative instincts and the business acumen to make Holly James a hit. “I love our location – the courtyard, the fountain, the flowers. The people at Parkplace are like family.”

The salon and spa offers complete hair services for adults and children, and spa treatments including waxing, facials, massage, makeup application, manicures and pedicures. “We also offer 100 percent natural Pureology products,” she says, spraying some amazing essence of rose on me, “ and costume jewelry, purses and makeup, all great for pampering yourself. We also offer gift certificates.”

As we talked, Georgia Schoonover checked out with a bagful of products. She had a brow arch and color touch-up and is a satisfied customer. “Holly James is the perfect addition to Parkplace for me.”

Holly says that customer satisfaction is the reason she loves her work “because it’s all about feelings and making people happy.” She says she wants the salon to exude warmth with an inviting, classic feel, but most of all she wants clients to feel relaxed and at home, while they receive excellent service.