Judi Barnes has been making women beautiful in Land O’ Lakes for more than 37 years.
The owner of two Land O’ Lakes hair salons — The Hair Port for the past 12 years, and before then, County Terrace for 15 years — Judi has been a hair stylist since 1966 when she graduated from DeVrys’ School of Beauty in Indiana. She eventually relocated to Tampa, where in 1969 she opened her first salon in Port Tampa.
Judi moved to Land O’ Lakes in 1979 and is proud to be the hair stylist for multiple generations of local families.
“I’m taking care of grandchildren — even great grandchildren — of women whose hair I’ve been doing for over 30 years,” says Judi. “I love making people happy in their appearance and in their hearts.”
When Judi moved to Land O’ Lakes, she wanted to open a shop with a family atmosphere where stylists could work together in a friendly, happy environment without gossip and where stylists and customers treated each other with respect.
“I wanted to take the best things about our industry and create beauty and happiness for others,” said Judi.
Today, The Hair Port has seven stylists, with most having over 30 years experience in the beauty field. Working the front desk is the mother-daughter team of Rebecca Barnes (mother) and Sarah Barnes, who are Judi’s daughter-in-law and granddaughter.
“We all work together as a team to take care of our clients and their comfort,” said Judi.
The salon’s highly skilled and talented stylists gladly back each other up and make sure all customers are treated like VIPS. Clients also appreciate The Hair Port’s affordable prices.
“Excellence in hair care does not have to be expensive,” said Judi.
Unlike many hair salons today, The Hair Port still offers weekly shampoo and set for clients who like a firm, longer-lasting hairstyle.
“Roller setting and teasing were something they taught in school 30 years ago. But today, they are almost a lost art,” said Judi. “There are many ladies who count on us every week to shampoo and set their hair for the weekend.”
The Hair Port is a full service salon, including barber services and braiding by appointment. While most clients schedule appointments, the salon also welcomes walk-ins. Professional products used are by Redken, Paul Mitchell and Matrix.
“While we have a very steady clientele, we always welcome new customers,” said Judi. “Please call for an appointment — we know you’ll love our services and our prices.”
