MADE is a paid partnership with Little Lake County.
Welcome to MADE in Lake County! MADE introduces you to the people and stories behind local Lake County businesses. Today it is our pleasure to introduce you to Vickie Dugo of Art and Nature Eco Salon of Libertyville.
I have always enjoyed getting my hair done, yet the smells of a typical salon often leave me feeling lightheaded. So I was absolutely thrilled when I learned that Art & Nature Eco-Salon, a new eco-friendly salon (and the only one in the area) committed to caring for their clients and the environment, opened earlier this year in Libertyville. And my appointment last weekend did not disappoint.
The Journey
Speaking with owner Vickie Dugo, my stylist that day, was an absolute treat. Her passion for natural living, commitment to her clients, and positive energy is absolutely infectious. And her journey to opening Art and Nature Eco-Salon is nothing short of inspiring. Vickie began doing hair at the age of 18 and quickly built a devoted clientele, which enabled her to open her first salon at 21. Several years later, she was dealt a devastating blow when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age. Her friends, family, and clients supported her while she underwent treatment and became well again. Although the combination of intense treatments and a double mastectomy sent her into early menopause, causing her to believe that having children of her own was not possible. Upon beginning the adoption process with her husband, Vickie wasn’t feeling well, and cancer fears came to the surface yet again. So imagine the joy they felt upon learning that she was 17 weeks pregnant with twin girls! Those girls are now five years old, and they were her inspiration for opening Art & Nature Eco-Salon. Throughout her cancer treatment, she educated herself about natural health and wellness, and now she had the inspiration and an opportunity to put that education to work for her clients. Armed with a passion for the environment and over a decade of experience doing hair, she opened Art & Nature Eco-Salon in January.
The Salon
Art & Nature Salon offers a variety of hair services, an on-site esthetician, and complimentary mini-makeovers and skincare consultations. All treatments and products are earth and people-friendly.
They also have a private room where cancer patients can try on custom wigs and hairpieces. This is just one example of how Vickie is giving back. The décor of the salon includes a unique mixture of recycled furnishings (if you happen to fall in love with one, many are available for sale), local art, and custom reclaimed cabinetry from John G. Hatlestad of Grayslake. Local artwork rotates quarterly. If you happen to be or know of a talented local artist, please call the salon with details.
My Experience
From the moment I walked into the salon, it just felt right. From the eclectic décor to the staff that went out of their way to make me feel welcome. Talking to Vickie was like talking to an old friend and my haircut was simply fantastic. After my previous hairstylist moved to California four years ago, I thought I’d never find a new one but my search has finally ended. I left there feeling nurtured, energized, and beautiful… what more could I ask for?
Art & Nature Eco-Salon
330 Peterson Road, Libertyville, IL 60048
Located in the Brookside Plaza
(847) 816-7444 | Facebook
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By Kristy K.
Round Lake
Kristy is the mother of two young children, who join in her quest for unique restaurants, fun places to play and a little personal sanity in the process. She does her best to teach her children healthy habits, kindness, compassion and a love of nature while also learning that sometimes we need to let go of our ideals in the name of fun.
Disclosure: Corner Health Foods is our featured Business of the Month. This series is part of a paid promotion partnership with Little Lake County. If you are interested in featuring your locally-owned business in our series, please contact the sales team.
Great profile – it perfectly describes my visit to Art and Nature, too! You can also check or “like” their Facebook page for more specials and news.
I have been going to this salon for at least three years. I have curly, kinky hair and all of the stylists have worked on my hair. They have all done a beautiful job on my hair by using wonderful, natural products. I receive great cuts that last after I style my hair myself. As a treat to myself in the summer, I’ll have the stylist style my hair in an up-do (I bring my own hair accessories). I have referred friends who have also enjoyed their salon and esthetician experience.