PIERCE -- A pandemic, the sudden loss of a sister, and a shaky economy -- none of these stopped Sarah Cederburg and Hollie Christiansen from accomplishing their dreams. 

Back in October, Expressions Floral & Gifts reached out to Cederburg, a stylist, and offered her the opportunity to open a hair salon. 

Cederburg, an eager entrepreneur, grabbed the chance. She wasn't hindered by the slow in other local businesses due to the pandemic. Rather, "I kind of like to fly by the seat of my pants," she said. 

Then she was ready to invite her buddy and nail artist Christiansen to add a manicure area to the salon. 

However, Christiansen had lost her sister Hailey to a murder in July. Her family wanted to buy Hailey's house, which was made possible when their father coincidentally won the lottery -- twice. Once that happened, Christiansen had the chance to go into the nail business again. It wasn't so easy, having so many memories of doing her sister's nails. But it was the right choice for her. 

"It's nice knowing Hailey is supporting me from above, and I still get to see her every day, because she looks just like my daughter. They have the same contagious smile," Christiansen said.

The salon now sells $3 wristbands in honor of her sister which support college funds for Hailey's son. 

The business is now a location for community and family to come together. And not just for the female community -- the two owners stress that self-care and hygiene should be something everyone takes pride in.

Christiansen said she has professionally developed through it in that she now enjoys doing pedicures, too, knowing how happy it makes people. 

The next steps for these two entrepreneurs will be to expand their clientele and adapt to new trends. 

"The new thing is balayage, and mullets are coming back, but we always have to keep learning," Cederburg said.