MAMSELLE WIG SALON

Owner: Carla Maynard-Rea

Est.: 1964

Address: 806 Robert E. Lee Dr., Tupelo

Phone: (662) 844-2085

Employees: 1

Hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Primary business: Replacement hairpieces for men, women and children; hats and jewelry

Advice: ‘Good customer service, consistency and quality are always the key.’

Carla Maynard-Rea practically grew up in her mother’s business, so it was almost destined she would one day take it over.

Mamselle Wig Salon has been open since 1964. It was started by Jo Bunnell. Carla’s mother, Vonda Maynard, worked for Bunnell for about 10 years before buying it from her.

The business sells wigs, as well as replacement hairpieces for men and children. The store also sells hats, turbans, sleeping caps and jewelry. Mamselle also services its products, providing styling and design.

When Maynard was ready to retire in 1994, all she needed to do was look close by and found her daughter.

Maynard-Rea was living in Jackson and going to school, but was ready to jump into the business.

Similar to a cosmetology license, she earned a wigology license.

“We have to go through state inspections as well,” she said.

Mamselle sells designer hairpieces, but has styles in all prices ranges.

“The key is fit,” she said. “It’s important to try different pieces because it can make a huge difference. The caps come in different sizes, from petite to large.”

The greatest satisfaction, she said, of running the business is, “You have great feeling at the end of the day because you’re doing something that helps people.”