[salon]718 was born from a simple but powerful observation: Brooklyn deserved better. In the mid-2000s, founder and CEO Michaella Blisset Williams recognized a clear gap in the market for a truly upscale salon experience and decided to fill it herself. What started as a two-chair studio in the basement of her Brooklyn brownstone quietly became something much larger. Today, [salon]718 has grown to seven locations — and is still expanding — without ever losing sight of where it came from.

The name says it all. “718” is Brooklyn’s original area code, a deliberate nod to the roots, pride, and community that have shaped this business from day one. “It’s a reminder that no matter how much we grow, we’re grounded in Brooklyn culture and values.” That sense of place is a guiding principle. Founded on a deep love for Brooklyn and its people, the salon found a home at 80 Dekalb Ave in Downtown Brooklyn, a neighborhood described as “vibrant, diverse, and constantly evolving — much like [salon]718 itself.” 

CEO and Founder Michaella Blisset Williams with [salon]718 team members!

The path to ownership was personal. With a mother who ran her own salon, beauty was always part of the story — but the true calling revealed itself over time. “It became less about hair alone and more about empowerment, confidence, and transformation — both for clients and for the artists behind the chair.” 

That mission is felt the moment you walk through the door. “The atmosphere is warm, elevated, and relaxed — professional but never intimidating.” Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, the goal is simple: “We want you to feel like you belong.” The work itself centers on customized, texture-inclusive services delivered by a consistently trained team of artists who listen and deliver. What keeps clients coming back, above all, is trust.

Through it all, the community has been the compass. ” [salon]718 is very much a reflection of the people who support us” clients, neighbors, and team members who have pushed the brand to be more inclusive, more thoughtful, and more intentional. As the salon looks ahead to new locations, deeper team education, and expanded community initiatives, one thing remains constant: honoring the Brooklyn values that started it all. 

Interested in being featured in a Small Business Spotlight? Contact us at sabdallah@downtownbrooklyn.com.