Michele Hinchcliff and Stacey Bianchini’s worlds collided almost ten years ago when their daughters were on the same cheerleading team. The two hit it off and have been supporting each other ever since. Stacey spent years in the beauty world as an esthetician, focusing on skincare, but she always had a passion for fashion. Michele, on the other hand, has always been involved in the customer service industry and thrives on making people feel comfortable, welcome, and appreciated. The two ladies’ skillsets complemented each other perfectly, so when the idea of going into business together presented itself, it was a no-brainer.

 

 

On April 1, 2022 Michele and Stacey opened Vibe Spray Tanning & Boutique in an upstairs suite on Oak Street in downtown Brentwood. “We originally looked at this much larger space on Chestnut Street, but to be honest, we were a bit intimidated,” said Michele. “This is a pretty big location and it needed a lot of work. So, we decided to start smaller, but ended up outgrowing that spot within six months.” When the Chestnut Street storefront was still available in October, the two knew it was meant to be. “It was definitely scary to take that leap, but it has totally worked out,” said Stacey.

   

Originally Vibe offered custom spray tans, as well as bathing suits and lingerie. “We knew we needed something to go along with the tanning, and that choice made sense,” said Michele. “However, it wasn’t really a smash hit, so we decided to give fashion a try.” Stacey and Michele were looking to offer something different than what could already be found around town, and with Stacey’s own personal style leaning a little more boho and rock n roll, it was a natural direction for the boutique to go. “There’s not a lot of that available in Brentwood,” said Stacey. “We wanted something different and fun.” After establishing the clothing element of the boutique, the rest began to evolve organically, even changing the name to Vibe Beauty & Boutique. Vibe now offers custom spray tans, hair and nail services, lash lifts and tinting, and retail. The ladies also plan to add skincare and facials in the future. “We’re constantly evolving and adding more. We really just want to be a one-stop shop for beauty,” said Michele.

 

             

In addition to the long list of services, Vibe also offers community events, like their monthly Women Vibing with Women. “Women Vibing with Women allows ladies to come into our shop and share their knowledge and what they do with others,” said Michele. “We do that the first Thursday of every month, and it’s always a new speaker. We love connecting people.” The ladies also host a monthly Sip, Shop and Socialize pop-up where they invite local women to come showcase their talents. “We’re trying to build a community and make other women feel stronger and supported. We want to provide a safe, fun space.”

             

While shopping and beautifying yourself is a fun experience, overall, Stacey and Michele really want women to know that they have a place where they can feel welcome and like they’re just visiting a couple of friends. “Women are very hard on themselves,” said Michele. “We just want to help people feel good about themselves, to feel beautiful, comfortable, welcome, and wanting to come back. You don’t even have to come in and buy something, but you’re always welcome to come in and hang out with us in our lounge area!”

 

             

As for the future of Vibe Beauty & Boutique, the two women are working hard to put Chestnut Street on the map. “Downtown has come such a long way,” said Stacey. “We want people to know that they can come down to Chestnut Street and experience a ton of fabulous businesses! It’s a breath of fresh air.” The pair have a plan, but it’s not set in stone; they want to be constantly learning and growing. “I’m excited for us. It’s a good vibe.”