Diane’s Wig Shop closes as Creative Wigs opens in Orem
Wigs are on display in the new Creative Wigs shop in Orem on Monday, May 15, 2017. SAMMY JO HESTER. Daily Herald
Lynda Reay, Jan McCullough and Diane Thompson pose for a portrait in the new Creative Wigs shop in Orem on Monday, May 15, 2017. SAMMY JO HESTER. Daily Herald
Diane Thompson poses for a portrait during the last day of business at Diane's Wig Shop on Thursday, May 11, 2017 in Orem. ISAAC HALE, Daily Herald
Diane Thompson styles a customer's wig during an appointment on the last day of business at Diane's Wig Shop on Thursday, May 11, 2017 in Orem. ISAAC HALE, Daily Herald
Diane Thompson styles a customer's wig during an appointment on the last day of business at Diane's Wig Shop on Thursday, May 11, 2017 in Orem. ISAAC HALE, Daily Herald
Creative Wigs and Hair Replacement opened its doors Monday morning on University Parkway in Orem near the Sister Missionary Mall.
Those familiar with Diane’s Wig Shop just across the street might wonder why a new wig store is opening in Orem, but Creative Wigs will now be the only wig shop in the city. Diane Thompson, owner of Diane’s Wig Shop, closed her doors and her business May 11.
Thompson wants to assure her loyal clients that she is not leaving the wig industry. She will be working for Creative Wigs. Customers of the new shop will have a much larger selection of wigs, hair extensions, hair replacement for men and women, and makeup.
Creative Wigs owner Jan McCullough has 50 years’ experience in the wig industry – starting when she was in high school in 1965. She has three other Creative Wigs locations – in Salt Lake City, South Jordan and St. George. By opening her fourth location in Orem, she is coming back to her roots.
“I wanted to get back to Orem. It’s where I started, and I’ve wanted to come back for years,” McCullough said.
She started a shop many years ago in Orem, before moving it and herself to Salt Lake City. She trained Thompson in the craft, so after McCullough’s move, Thompson opened her own shop.
McCullough and Thompson agreed this was the right time for McCullough’s return. Thompson credits McCullough for where the wig and hair replacement industry is today in Utah.
“A lot of the wig shops around here, a lot of them are tied to Jan. She trained most of them,” Thompson said.
Throughout the years, McCullough’s success caught the notice of national organizations. Even now she’s still garnering fame. Creative Wigs will be the HairUWear retailer of the month in June.
McCullough said her shops are meant to be a one-stop shopping experience. Because of McCullough’s combined buying power, her inventory is one of the largest in the Western states. Additionally, McCullough’s staff is highly trained in cosmetology and beauty.
“We have a staff that really cares, who want to be there for customers in a time that’s really difficult,” McCullough said.
Many clients who need Creative Wigs services do so because they are going through a bout of chemotherapy, suffer from alopecia, or have thinning hair. Some clients are also those in the transgender community looking for the style that fits who they are. The store’s staff works to find the best solution to boost customers’ confidence.
Though Thompson is retiring as an owner, she’s excited to continue this work under McCullough once again.
“I’ll be doing the same thing, just at a better, more accessible location,” Thompson said.
Thompson and McCullough say even after all these years, they still have to educate people on the comfort and quality of wigs.
“After 40 years, I still hear people say wigs are uncomfortable, or they will make you look like a grandma. But today’s wigs are lightweight, breathable, fun and follow the current styles,” Thompson said.
“There are so many different colors and styles today, and there are more wigs sold now than ever before,” McCullough added.
Some of their most enjoyable experiences are fitting people for local Comic-Con events.
“Wigs nowadays come almost pre-styled, and they are very easy. They’re just shake and wear — so low maintenance. Now it’s almost a fashion accessory,” Thompson said.
Creative Wigs is located at 208 E. University Parkway, and is now open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. The phone number is the same as the one formerly used by Diane’s Wig Shop: (801) 224-5070.
Creative Wigs and Hair Replacement is celebrating their grand opening with 10 percent off everything in the store through May 31, 2017.
Halo Couture extensions and men’s hair replacement services are $25 off as well.
To find out more, call 801-224-5070.
