Seattle Coffee Shop and Salon Marks Ten Years
Squirrel Chops celebrates a decade of business at its 23rd and Union location.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Squirrel Chops, a unique business combining a coffee shop and a two-chair hair salon, is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year. The establishment opened in Seattle's Central District in 2016.
Why it matters
Owners Shirley Henderson and Sharon Blyth-Moss founded the business to prioritize community building. The shop maintains affordable pricing to ensure ongoing access for local customers despite industry pressures.
Despite a 120% increase in green coffee prices, the shop continues to sell drip coffee for approximately $3.75. The business has operated at 2201 E Union for a full decade.
The players
Shirley Henderson
She is a co-owner of the Seattle business who emphasizes community-focused operations.
Sharon Blyth-Moss
She serves as a co-owner of the establishment, helping manage the combined coffee and salon model.
Becky Selengut
She is a professional chef scheduled to host a public appearance at the venue.
The details
The business operates as a hybrid space, featuring a coffee bar alongside a salon that specializes in gender-affirming haircuts. The owners have focused on creating an inclusive environment while navigating significant fluctuations in the cost of coffee beans.
Timeline
Squirrel Chops opened its doors at 23rd and Union in 2016.
The 10th anniversary celebration is scheduled for October 30, 2026.
Chef Becky Selengut will hold a cookbook signing event in December 2026.
Market Landscape
The business maintains its niche model amid the city's broader economic shifts, including a proposed $68 million increase in Seattle Police Department spending. This highlights the divergence between independent community-focused commerce and broader municipal fiscal priorities.
Customers can continue to access coffee at the established price point of $3.75 despite broader inflationary pressures. The shop remains a community-focused hub for both daily caffeine needs and specialized salon services.
The takeaway
Small businesses often succeed by layering complementary services, such as coffee and salon care, to build resilient community ties. Maintaining affordable prices despite sharp commodity spikes helps these venues remain accessible to their local customer base.
What happens next
A 10th anniversary celebration is planned for October 30, 2026, followed by a cookbook signing with Chef Becky Selengut in December 2026.
Further reading
For more news on local developments, visit Seattle Openings & Closings.
More information
View full details regarding the business and upcoming events on the Squirrel Chops business website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CHS Capitol Hill Seattle.
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