New Image Concepts founder Sharon Tillett is leaving her Bigfork salon in good hands. On Feb. 12, her good friend and colleague, Clara Smith will move into Tillett’s space, continuing her legacy of caring for the health and wellness of men and women across the Flathead Valley.
“It’s pretty exciting that I get to share it with Clara,” Tillett said. “There’s no one in the whole world I’d rather share it with.”
After 54 years in the industry, Tillett retires Friday from New Image Concepts, a business she started in 2000.
Prior to moving to Montana for her husband’s job, Tillett worked in salons in her native Dallas, Texas, and applied makeup on contestants in the Miss Texas and Miss America pageants.
“It’s been a ride,” said Tillett, who used to ride Harley-Davidson motorcycles before she became booked full-time to provide facials, hair treatments, waxing and other beauty services.
Smith said Tillett’s healing touch has been felt all across the valley, and this impact is something she is determined to preserve as she takes the reins.
“We’re really working together as a team to make this transition good for everyone,” Smith said.
Even though the salon will undergo renovations and the name will be changed to North Shore Lash and Beauty, Smith promised that customers can expect the same experience they’ve received from Tillett for two decades.
“I’ll have the exact same products and services,” Smith said. These include facials, waxing, lash extensions and advanced skincare therapies like LED light therapy and microcurrent treatment. “We want it to be an easy transition for her clients,” she explained.
Smith recognized the changeover could be an adjustment for the loyal customers who have been commuting to Bigfork from Kila, Whitefish and elsewhere to receive treatment from Tillett.
“Sharon has been my mentor since even before I went to school to become an esthetician,” she said.
Tillett promised she’ll stick around Bigfork to help out. “I’ll always be here,” Tillett said. “I just want to be in Bigfork and be able to enjoy Bigfork because I haven’t yet. I want to walk along the river trail when I’m not in a rush to get to work.”
While skincare has changed significantly in the Tillett’s 54 years in the business, with the advent of new techniques and products, she and Smith shared similar strategies for healthy skin and general wellness.
“People think it’s pampering, but it’s really healthy for your skin,” Tillett said of a dedicated skincare regimen. “It’s like sending your skin to the gym.”
Reporter Bret Anne Serbin may be reached at bserbin