Yessenia Melendez likes to help people. That’s why she has a full-time job recruiting nursing students at St. Luke’s in Bethlehem while also owning and operating Catalina Dry Bar at 644 N. New St. That way, she can help hospitals have a steady flow of nursing candidates while also giving beauty professionals a place to enjoy creative freedom.
“I feel those working in this industry don’t have a lot of support. I wanted to have a place where my employees can feel safe to be themselves and be creative,” Melendez told What Now Philadelphia. “I’m a very passionate business owner that loves the beauty business. I’m just lucky to make a way for my employees and myself.”
Melendez, who opened her salon in 2019, will remain in Bethlehem but move Catalina Dry Bar to a space within the office and retail building at 3. W. Broad St. to offer her customers even more services in a larger space. The salon’s new location is nearby at 42. Walnut St. in a space about 600 sq. ft. bigger than their current one. Catalina Dry Bar offers New York-style blowouts, haircuts, color and highlight, hair treatments, and makeup to local customers and provides services for parties, like weddings and special occasions. They also serve a significant number of clients from out of town and staying at local hotels.
“I’m born and raised here. I’m very prideful of where I come from. I think staying close to Main Street was the main goal. I have a lot of visitors in the historic area. I want to make it convenient for everyone,” Melendez said.
The new salon will have a room dedicated to providing new esthetician services, like facials, body and brow waxing, and spray tanning. It had to undergo significant construction renovations and is expected to open in the first week of March.
“Our salon is based on having a great experience. We focus on customer service, and I think that makes us a whole lot different than other salons in our area,” Melendez said. “We can’t wait to cater to you in our new space!”
Learn about Catalina Dry Bar’s services at catalinadrybar.com and get updates at facebook.com/catalinadrybar1.
