Images of Danville icons, landmarks and heroes decorate the walls of the River District Barbershop. Owner Von Wellington wants to let Dan River Region’s everyday heroes know they are welcome.
It’s a fitting sight for prolific photographer Wellington. Wellington is a common sight in the River District, whether he’s snapping photos at a new business opening or educating local youth on the artistry of photography.
River District Barbershop will open Sept. 18 on South Ridge Street.
“There will be all kinds of memorabilia in the store,” Wellington said, adding that his pictures of Dan River Region scenes will decorate the space, too.
Danville Community College and Averett University has shared images of its students and athletes to be hung on the walls. Portraits of city officials and first responders will be hung, too.
“It’s all about re-imagining and doing things for the River District. The concept came up because we wanted to dedicate something for the students,” he said.
Wellington hopes all the collectible items and area keepsakes will create the inspired and re-imaged atmosphere of an evolving Danville. He’ll offer special discounts for students of local high schools Tuesdays through Fridays, for seniors every Tuesday and for Averett, DCC and other area school students Wednesdays through Fridays.
“It’s all about empowering the students and engaging them in re-imaging this area,” he explained. “They can come all the time because it’s their shop.”
The shop will have a traditional vibe to it with six trained and certified barbers on its staff. A bookcase will provide reading material for visitors and a television will broadcast sports matches. Wellington is looking into adding an old-time shoe shine station, too.
Wellington has leased the entire 10,000 square foot building even though his River District Barbershop uses only a small segment of the space. Under his agreement with local entrepreneur William Gentry, Wellington will soon roll out multiple phases of construction to later establish an event space and auto spa.
The event center is expected to host a variety of events, like board meetings, weddings, recitals and more. Wellington hopes to support other businesses in the area, such as Piedmont Access to Health Services and Danville Regional Medical Center. Gentry’s restaurant Golden Leaf Bistro will provide all the catering for the space’s use.
The auto spa will provide interior working space in the building’s back garage area. The shop will be staffed with local youth, Wellington said.
Cruz reports for the Danville Register & Bee.
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