At Local First, we believe that behind every local business is a story — a person who chose to invest their creativity, energy, and passion into our community. This month, we're highlighting Sanct Salon, a Durango salon founded by stylist and owner Kendra Lise, who created a space centered on care, sustainability, connection, and thoughtful beauty.
What inspired you to start Sanct Salon?
The emergence of Sanct Salon is as much of a surprise to me as it is a dream realized. The first idea came during a school project at the Aveda Institute in Denver in 2011. The spark that got our doors open in 2025 was the need for an allergen-free space due to complications from an autoimmune condition. With autoimmune disease on the rise, I knew there had to be clients in Durango who needed the kind of salon I needed to work in. Maddie Cook heard the idea and jumped in — she's been essential since day one.
What makes Sanct Salon unique?
In our first year, the most common comments we hear are, "Wow, it smells so good in here, not like a salon," and "I love how it feels in here." We use ammonia-free hair color and styling products with organic, low-toxic ingredients, plus hypoallergenic, scentless shampoo and conditioner. From the music to silent-appointment offerings, weighted blankets, and neck wraps, we want clients to feel at ease. Behind the scenes, we separate foils, gloves, and hair clippings to be repurposed as a Green Circle Salons member — we wish to be light on the earth, and nice to your hair and your heart.
Why is being part of the local business community important to you?
Becoming a business owner has shown me the responsibility of having a business worthy of this special community. When asked what I love about Durango, I say we are neighbors who love being in the mountains — it's a special thing to be united by a place we love. Connecting with other businesses lets us lift each other up, share clients and ideas, and encourage a thriving community that everyone benefits from.
Visit Sanct Salon
Sanct Salon brings together care, sustainability, and connection in an allergen-conscious, thoughtfully curated space in the heart of Durango. We're grateful to have them as part of the Local First community. Visit them at 2855 Main Avenue, Durango, CO 81301, or book an appointment at sanctsalon.com.