Our Story
At our current location since 2001 and a part of our community since 1974
Rooted in Passion, Built on Connection
J. Stephens Salon & Spa began with a simple but meaningful idea: people deserve to feel cared for.
In the late 1960s, founder Joe Selego moved to State College to attend Pennsylvania State University. After graduation, he returned to Northeastern Pennsylvania, but quickly realized he was longing for a more creative and fulfilling path. That realization led him to cosmetology school — and ultimately back to the community that had always felt like home.
In 1974, Cut & Dried opened its doors on bustling Allen Street in downtown State College. What began as a small salon quickly grew into something much more: a place where relationships mattered just as much as beautiful results.
As the industry evolved, so did the vision. In the 1980s, the business expanded, and in 2001, J. Stephens Salon & Spa opened at its current location — creating a space where elevated salon and spa services could exist alongside warmth, comfort, and genuine connection.
In 2013, Joe’s daughter Anne joined the ownership team alongside Sarah, whose leadership, mentorship, and dedication helped shape the culture that continues to define J. Stephens today. After decades spent building and guiding an incredible team of beauty professionals, Sarah retired in 2026. Today, Anne continues to lead the salon, remaining deeply involved in the daily experience of both guests and team members while continuing to grow and evolve the company for the future.
More than Beauty Services
Over the years, many things have changed — trends, techniques, services, and the beauty industry itself. What has never changed is our belief that every guest deserves to feel welcomed, valued, and genuinely cared for from the moment they walk through our doors.
At J. Stephens, we believe beauty is personal. No two guests are alike, which is why no experience should feel one-size-fits-all. We take pride in creating customized experiences designed around each guest’s individual needs, lifestyle, and goals.
Whether someone visits us for a haircut, color transformation, spa service, or a quiet moment of self-care, our goal is always the same: to make them feel seen, comfortable, confident, and cared for.
The Experience We Strive To Create
Guests often tell us they notice the difference immediately — the welcoming atmosphere, the friendliness of our team, the cleanliness and attention to detail, and the level of care woven into every interaction.
Those details matter deeply to us.
We know that truly personalized service is becoming increasingly rare, and we work hard to protect the kind of experience that makes people feel appreciated rather than rushed. From thoughtful consultations to collaborative teamwork and intentional follow-through, every part of the guest experience is designed with care.
We are proud to offer a space that feels inclusive, inviting, and elevated without ever feeling intimidating.
Always Growing
One of the things that has evolved most throughout our journey is our commitment to continued education and growth.
Our team is passionate about staying inspired, refining our craft, and bringing modern techniques, ideas, and innovation to our guests while maintaining the consistency and professionalism that have always been at the heart of our company.
We believe excellence is not something you achieve once — it’s something you continue pursuing every day.
Looking Forward
More than 50 years after the original salon first opened, J. Stephens Salon & Spa continues to grow with the same heart and purpose it was founded on.
We are incredibly grateful for the generations of guests who have trusted us through life’s milestones, everyday moments, celebrations, transitions, and everything in between.
Whether you have been visiting us for years or are walking through our doors for the very first time, we look forward to welcoming you, caring for you, and helping you feel your very best.
Salon Tour
