College Hill welcomed a new family‑focused business this summer when Kings & Queens Beauty Bar & Booz opened its doors on July 17. The combined salon, barbershop and nail studio provides haircuts, styling, cosmetology and nail services all under one roof, a convenience many neighborhood residents have been missing.
Local ownership fuels community revival
Owner Latela Price, a lifelong College Hill resident, said the decision to locate the shop at 312 East Street was rooted in a desire to give back to the area that raised her. “This is the area where I’m from, born and raised,” Price explained. “There’s nothing in this area. You have to travel at least to State Line to get a haircut, your hair done or nails done. Why not have something right here in the community?”
Price emphasized that the opening is about more than a new storefront; it’s a step toward revitalizing a neighborhood that has seen several businesses close in recent years. By offering multiple services in one location, the shop aims to reduce the transportation burden for families without reliable cars.
One‑stop shop meets real needs
“We want this to be a one‑stop shop for people,” Price said. “Everyone may not have the transportation to get to other parts of Texarkana for hair services. I wanted this neighborhood to have access to several services.”
Shop manager and stylist Shaneque Henderson echoed that sentiment, noting the community’s untapped potential. “I see a lot where the community is downplayed, but this community has so much potential to be great,” Henderson said. “I want to bring everyone together and build something great over there.”
Support from local officials
Assistant mayor and Ward 2 director Laney Harris welcomed the new venture, calling it a positive sign for College Hill’s economic health. “I welcome her new business to the neighborhood, and her presence means a lot to us,” Harris said. “Thank you for choosing us, and if there’s anything she needs, we’re here and ready to make her experience exceptional and profitable.”
Barber JoeDacie Smith expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work locally, hoping the shop will inspire further investment. “I haven’t heard about a barbershop in College Hill in a long time, so I hope this brings joy to the people who live here,” Smith said. “I hope the community looks at this as a blessing. This is something that is within walking distance, and people can still get quality service.”
Giving back to those in need
Beyond providing beauty services, Price announced plans to launch a food‑distribution effort for the homeless population of College Hill in November, reinforcing the shop’s commitment to community stewardship.
Kings & Queens Beauty Bar & Booz joins a modest but growing roster of small businesses seeking to fill the service gap in College Hill. By keeping the operation locally owned and rooted in family values, the shop hopes to set an example for other entrepreneurs considering investment in the area.
For more information, the business maintains an active Facebook page where residents can view hours, service menus and upcoming community events.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
