Meet A Mom- Erin Ray of Erin Ray Hair/Obsidian Salon and Ridgefield Bicycle Co.
Erin Ray and her husband, Adam are the newest owners of Ridgefield Bicycle Co. Erin also is an incredible hairstylist that specializes in modern techniques and is always making a statement in the salon community with her work. Erin supports her husband as they run the go to bike shop here in town and is also working on opening her new salon named, Obsidian Salon in the heart of Bethel, CT.
How long have you been connected to the Ridgefield community (could be work, residence, entertainment)?
I was practically raised here as a young child. My grandparents moved here from Brooklyn back in the 60s. My mom is a proud graduate of Ridgefield High School Class of 1976. We hope in the future to relocate our family to town.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
Back when I just entered into the beauty world, my husband and I worked across the street from one another and instantly once I was able to start taking clients, many of the Ridgefield Bicycle Company family supported me by trusting me with their locks.
Tell us about your son-name, age, first bicycle? AND…Congratulations on your baby girl arriving this July!
Cooper is a little over 2 years old. His first bike is a Specialized balance bike in red. He first started out using it around the house, but now he wants to go for daily rides around our neighborhood.
How has cycling impacted your young family (health benefits, etc…)
Cycling is something that we hold very dear. I never was really into cycling but once I met my husband he immediately introduced me to his passion. We have family within riding distance of the shop so my first road ride was to my grandparents house on Standish Drive.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you both?
We met on Tinder a bit over 7 years ago and everything just fell together after that so we highly encourage people to swipe right!
Tell us about your work? Do you have any plans to alter how the shop is run whether that be events, service, etc.
We are beyond thrilled to be carrying on what the Dowd’s have created. We strive for always accommodating the cycling community the best we can. We have no plans to change the shop because “what isn’t broken doesn’t need fixing.”
My newest entrepreneurial venture will opening Obsidian Salon in September 2021! www.obsidiansalonct.com
Who can benefit from the work you do and/or what do you hope your clients gain from their time with you?
Getting outside and enjoying the world around us is one of the most special parts of riding. There are so many options for both individuals, families and groups that the opportunities are endless.
What’s been the best piece of advice you’ve received from another mother/community member/cyclist?
Enjoy the little moments.
What are your goals for RBC?
Continuing to grow the cycling community in the area and beyond. You can find them at www.ridgefieldbicycle.com