Shine in the Heights ★9.9

The bungalow salon of the Houston Heights

Shine in the Heights began in 2006 when its founder spotted a white bungalow with French doors and big windows on Eleventh Street and decided the light was too good to pass up. It opened with two chairs and grew to seven; nearly two decades on it is a full-service salon that stayed woman-owned and kept the house feel that first drew people in.

Services

The salon handles cuts and styling for men, women, and children, and leans into current color — balayage, baby lights, dimensional blonding, and gloss and gray coverage. Also on the menu are extensions, chemical and conditioning treatments, and makeup application, so a bridal party can get color, styling, and finishing under one roof.

Technology and brands

The color and care lines run on L’Oreal, Redken, and Pureology — a professional lineup chosen for reliable color performance and sulfate-free maintenance that protects freshly lightened hair. Deep conditioning and gloss treatments are used to keep color fresh between visits, and stations and tools are sanitized between guests.

Team and stylists

The salon was founded and is still owned and operated by Cherryl Gryder, who started with a single apprentice and built a team that now spans more than thirty across the two neighboring Heights locations. The staff is known for consultation-first service and for taking time with new guests rather than rushing the chair.

The Space

This is the original location, and the bungalow is the whole mood: French doors, large windows, and natural light that makes color easier to read in the mirror. Guests describe it as cute and cozy, clean and modern at once — small enough that service feels one-on-one, but busy enough to feel alive.

Who it’s for

Made for Heights locals who want a neighborhood salon rather than a chain, color clients after a natural, lived-in result, and anyone who values an unhurried, personal appointment. Bridal parties and guests bringing the whole family fit easily here.

Questions and answers

Can I book online? Yes — online booking runs through the salon’s scheduling system, with phone booking also available.

How long does an appointment take? A cut and style is about an hour; balayage or dimensional color with a blowout usually runs two to four hours.

Do you cut men’s and children’s hair? Yes — the salon serves men, women, and children.

Can I combine services in one visit? Yes, color with a conditioning treatment and a finishing style is common; makeup can be added for events. Mention it at booking.

Do you offer gift certificates? Yes, gift certificates are available and make an easy present.

Opening hours