Dreams reawakened: ‘Wakeup Slayed’ brings 24-hour beauty experience to Old Harbour

Launched on April 19, 2026, the salon is already distinguishing itself with a bold and unique concept — a 24-hour appointment-based service model designed to accommodate clients at any time.

From makeup and lashes to braids, wigs, nails, waxing, massages, and advanced brow services such as microblading, the business positions itself as a comprehensive, one-stop beauty destination.

“We offer only quality… quality customer service, a beautiful modern space, relaxation, and comfort,” Gonzales shared in an exclusive interview with Old Harbour News following the posh launch. “My business provide emotional support, we give you what you need to make your life easier, not what you want. It’s a one stop shop and when you leave, you will feel like a brand-new person.”

With a dedicated team of five already in place, the salon represents far more than growth in numbers; it embodies years of dedication, resilience through challenges, and a vision that has gradually evolved into reality.

The story of Wakeup Slayed began decades ago, on the same plaza it now calls home.

At just 13 years old, Gonzales encountered a hairstylist braiding hair and boldly challenged her skills — a moment that unexpectedly turned into her first opportunity in the beauty industry.

That experience ignited a passion that would follow her into adulthood, even as societal expectations attempted to steer her in a different direction.

“At the age of 16, I wanted to open a salon in Bartons where I am from,” she recounted. “I had the space and everything, but there was some obstacles. My parents never wanted me to open a beauty salon because back then, people believed that those things are only for the uneducated or the less fortunate.”

Though the dream was temporarily deferred, it was never abandoned.

Instead of giving up, Gonzales diversified — building a strong entrepreneurial foundation across the travel and event planning industries.

Her journey began with the launch of Las Perlas Tours in 2006. The Bartons-born later established Amor Kids and Party Rentals Limited in 2018, now operating from 14 West Street on Hardcore Plaza since 2024, offering a kids luxury spa and specialized services for children’s events.

It was motherhood, however, that reignited her connection to the beauty space.

Frustrated by long wait times at salons and environments she felt were unsuitable for children, Gonzales created a kids’ spa — a safe, welcoming space tailored specifically for younger clients.

That move would ultimately lead her back to her original passion.

Determined to sharpen her skills, she enrolled at Distinction College in May 2025, completing her certification by December. With renewed confidence and expertise, the vision for a second salon became inevitable.

“Everything that I wanted came full circle 25 years later. I always tell myself that I want to be a 40-year-old fabulous lady. And in order for you to be fabulous, you really have to just offer the services. A thought that I kept saying to myself has come alive. I no longer have to pay to do my hair, nails, makeup, nothing, because I can do almost all of that, and also my team members can do it for me,” she said.

Now at 40, Gonzales stands not only as a business owner, but as a living example of delayed dreams realized. 

She describes the opening day as “amazing,” as it brought together clients, collaborators, and fellow entrepreneurs who have grown alongside her over the years. Among those present were well-known figures in the local business community, including Chantal Pryce from Netcom Computer Stores, Kaluga Café boss Adrian Samuda and attorney-at-law Dainele Lewin.

The event reflected not just the launch of a salon, but the celebration of a shared entrepreneurial journey within Old Harbour.

With its unique 24-hour model, expanding team, and deeply personal foundation, Wakeup Slayed Beauty Salon and Spa is poised to redefine the beauty experience in Old Harbour — one appointment at a time.