Elaine’s Hair Designs in Grand Marais has a new hair stylist, and she’s ready for business.

With 10 years of styling and cutting hair in the Twin Cities behind her, Charity Tapp is excited for her future in Cook County.

“I look forward to all of the things that Charity can teach me,” said Elaine Sample, the owner of Elaine’s Hair Designs.

Even with more than 40 years of cutting and styling men’s and women’s hair, Elaine is open to learning new trends in her industry.

But Charity was quick to respond, “Oh no. I think it’s going to be me learning from her.”

A vacation to Cook County this past July led to a move up north, said Tapp.

“My husband Devon used to live here. After our trip this summer we went back to the Cities, and we decided we had to make this our home. And here we are!” 

Devon is currently working as a carpenter for Anton Moody. Both Charity and Devon love to fish and enjoy the outdoors. Faith, age 12, rounds out the family. She is in seventh grade and began school at I.S.D. 166.

Charity rents space from Sample in the first floor of the Grand Marais Pharmacy building where the beauty shop is located.

“I worked in a big shop in Owatonna, but I was an independent hair dresser there as well,” she said.

Although Charity is independent, Sample considers her a partner. “We have a wedding coming up this weekend, and we have to do hair for five ladies. I’m glad Charity is here to help me,” said Sample.

Charity specializes in blondes, balisage (hand painting hair), nails, hair extensions, and Brazil Blowouts.

“I also do men’s hair, and it won’t be too long before I get equipment so I can do pedicures,” she added.

After one week, Charity said business has been good, but she’s open to gaining new customers and making friends in the area.