Eight Six O! Pictured from left are owners Natalie Ratliff and Sarah Kelly in the front row, and Dani Diaz, Whitney Waterbury, Cathy Mills and Raquel Norton in the back row. Photo by Seti Long

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – Downtown Hazel Street in Gridley isn’t short on historic charm and lately, it’s been adding “trendy” and “chic” to its descriptives with the opening of fresh new boutiques and shops.

One of the newest in the district is Eight-Six O, bringing a hybrid of affordable fashions and wide-range of salon services to the public by co-owners Natalie Ratliff and Sarah Kelly.

While Kelly’s 15-years of experience as a licensed massage therapist helps her quickly identify each client’s needs and tailor a therapy routine specific to them, she also specializes in hot stone massage, cupping, pre-natal massage and general relaxation techniques.

Ratliff brings eight years of expertise in professional beauty products, cosmetology school experience and her low-key friendly vibe to the retail shop front of Eight Six O. Her keen eye and a budget-savvy mentality help Ratliff procure classic pieces of clothing, accessories and scents for the new downtown boutique.

Kelly and Ratliff have assembled a team of fellow independent women to bring a united front of services to the public. The following talented individuals join Eight Six O: Whitney Waterbury, cosmetology; Raquel Norton, nail technician; Daniel Diaz, stylist; and Cathy Mills, jewelry.

The result is a formula that has worked for other shops in Gridley in the past: fashion and beauty under one roof.

Both Kelly and Ratliff have previously worked at the shop’s location associated with different businesses and faced the decision to take over the lease when the previous business, Cindy’s, owned by Cindy Stowe, closed her brick-and-mortar location.

Stowe encouraged the two ladies to partner.

“It just made sense that we stay here together and mesh our ideas.” Ratliff said

Kelly echoed Ratliff adding, “I also wanted a good team to work together.”

“I think this group is phenomenal, “said Kelly, “I’ve worked with many groups of amazing women in this town… And I couldn’t have gotten a better partner!”

The group hit the ground running and has been open under Eight Six O for a month now.

Eight Six O is open Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and closed Sunday and Monday. Salon hours vary. They are located at 860 Hazel St., Gridley.

To reach Ratliff directly at Eight Six O or to schedule a tanning session, call 530-370-8533. To schedule a massage with Kelly, text or call 530-774-4684. For additional styling services, please visit Facebook at Eight Six O.