When children step into Mouse Mania Cuts, Morgan Hill’s new, one of a kind, kid-friendly hair salon, it would be hard to convince them that they are actually in a place of business.
Owner, Bette Hernandez says that’s just fine with her. Thanks to the red, black and white color scheme, checkered linoleum and a generous dose of Mikey Mouse memorabilia, any child would believe that the key to a secret Disneyland lay just north of downtown right behind the auto parts store.
Prying little hands from the playhouse and cache of toys, long enough for a haircut might be the toughest challenge parents will face at Mouse Mania Cuts. Once Hernandez hoists a child into what she calls “a fun styling chair” and buckles them up, they’d be compelled to grasp the bright red steering wheel attached at the front. Add to that some video sing-alongs and they will be raring to go for a new haircut.
But don’t let on to the truth. The childish delight of peering through a wall mirror adorned with white-gloved Mickey Mouse hands, is just too much fun to spoil.
Hernandez, a 12-year veteran of Supercuts in Oakridge Mall of San Jose, is thrilled to combine her two loves - children and hair styling.
“The scissors and blow dryers scare kids. They like to take their time and look around,” she said with a smile. “I always get a kick out of their little stories.”
Mouse Mania Cuts recently held a successful grand opening and Hernandez, who runs the shop with the help of a long-time friend, Brenda Sunday, said that by 9 a.m. people had formed a line to get in.
“We had steady business all day, and it hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down yet,” Hernandez said. “Parents were happy to have one place where they didn’t have to say, ’No, no, don’t touch.’ ”
Hernandez has received numerous compliments on the red sinks.
“Usually sinks are too high and uncomfortable for the children to use,” she said, “but mine are scaled-down and make a more pleasurable experience.”
Hernandez’s understanding of children comes form being a member of a five-sibling family. She is aunt to 10 nieces and nephews and great aunt to five more.
“Through a lot of time babysitting, I learned that even small children already know what they want. I see parents combing their kid’s hair; sometimes the kids don’t like the results and they will get busy fixing it exactly the way they want it. Little boys are so cute, just as vain as little girls,” she said.
Hernandez said she had always wanted her own hair salon. “I just decide to go for it, but I really have to thank my parents, because I wouldn’t have this chance without their help.”
Luck was on her side all the way around.
“This location was not my first choice. My first choice had a long waiting list,” she explained. “But this place is working great. All my things fit in perfectly.”
So where did all the eye-catching memorabilia come from?
“I already had this stuff,” Hernandez said, “I’ve always loved Mickey Mouse.”
There is something for everyone at Mouse Mania; two styling chairs for adults and one for children. Hair cuts start at $12. Bang trims are $5, and shampoos are $4. Hernandez will also style French braids for $10.
What advice does she have for parents brave enough to attempt haircuts at home?
“Forget it,” she said. “I see crooked bangs all day long. Don’t bother, just come see me.”
Mouse Mania is open Monday through Friday , 10 am to 7 pm ; Saturdays, 9am to 7pm; Sundays , 10am to 4pm and is located at 17760 Monterey Road, Suite B.
