The past couple of months have seen the arrival of several male-centric salons. Here's a look at three that offer private event space and services ranging from waxing to shoe shines.
1. In December, an outpost of New York's John Allan's salon opened in the South Loop. The members-only pampering den occupies a 5,000-square-foot penthouse that can host receptions for about 350. The venue's cutting room opens out onto a 1,350-square-foot terrace that overlooks the city skyline; a separate lounge area features a bar, a pool table, and a 60-inch flat-screen TV. (Each room holds about 150 people.) Planners can develop custom packages for guests—offerings range from shoe shines to massages and facials—and outside caterers are welcome in the venue's 400-square-foot prep kitchen.
2. Last Friday, Men's Grooming Parlor opened in a converted two-bedroom apartment above Andersonville's Anteprima restaurant. Owner Matt Leyes specializes in waxing and customized facials; he also provides more indulgent services such as herbal wraps and crushed-salt exfoliation. Leyes can host receptions for approximately 20 in his 1,400-square-foot venue; an outdoor patio provides space for an additional 15. Though Leyes recommends catering from Andersonville's coastal Southern restaurant Big Jones, planners are welcome to bring in vendors of their choice.
3. Halo for Men, a local chain that has outposts in the Gold Coast and Bucktown, opened a Lincoln Park location in late January. The new venue offers the salon's signature "The Man"—a treatment package that includes a haircut, scalp massage, facial toner, and a hot towel—as well as coloring services and waxing. For events at the Lincoln Park location, Halo staff can provide nine haircuts and one shave and waxing service at a time. While guests wait, they can lounge in leather recliners in a waiting area that seats six. For events that don't involve services, the salon can accommodate 100. Venue owners typically suggest Rockit Bar & Grill for catering, though they are open to other vendors.
