Tiffany and Aaron Duell are the new owners of LaGra Salon and Day Spa
By Andrew Harris, pictured is Graves with the Duell’s
Barb Graves certainly left her mark on Wellsville NY. A business pioneer, a community servant, an elected official, and a mentor to many has relocated to be closer to her family. Graves lived in Wellsville for over 60 years and founded the iconic LaGra salon, now under new ownership
Those new owners are the dynamic Duell duo, the new owners of LaGra, now located on East State Street in the small business building also also owned by the Duell’s. Tiffany and Aaron purchased LaGra from Barb about five years ago. She stayed on to continue serving her clients and be sure the Duell’s had lots of support with their new beginning.
Tiffany and Aaron had this to say reflecting as Graves starts a new chapter in Virginia, closer to family:
“For over 60 years, your dedication and commitment have not only transformed the beauty and wellness industry in Wellsville but have also enriched the lives of every client and team member who passed through your doors. LaGra is a testament to your unwavering commitment to excellence and your ability to foresee and embrace new ideas. Through your leadership you nurtured your staff to a better life, growing their skills as they served the community. As you move on to more adventures, We celebrate your legacy of passion, perseverance, and profound impact on our community. We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to carry on the legacy of LaGra that you worked so hard to create.”
When Barb Graves founded LaGra in 1972, she had no idea how many hairdressers and employees she would provide a job, and personal support. Kate McKinley Murphy was one of those young ladies who joined the LaGra Family. She said this recently,
“Barb Graves started a business, LaGra, when women didn’t really own/run a business. She worked hard her whole life. As a boss, she was tough, made you work hard, taught you a ton about the hair industry but also about life. She worked you hard but worked just as hard herself.
She contributed to Wellsville in so many ways.. Chamber, Town of Wellsville, ICC and on and on. When I worked for her she was always donating to fundraisers and was a steady supporter of my Uncle Father Bill Brown. Barb never liked the limelight, she did things that no one even knew about. Her husband Cal worked at Dresser and was always the calm, quiet man. Her kids are a testament to their hard work. Barb and Cal are moving out of the area and closer to their kids/grandkids.
As I hugged her goodbye I got emotional(surprise) but did thank her for all she has done for Wellsville! I wish them safe travels and the best of life in “retirement”. God bless them and they definitely left their mark on Wellsville!”
Today LaGra is thriving as one of the longest standing brand names in our region. Clearly the foundation that Barb built over decades in business is uniquely strong and the new owners are honoring that tradition. More about LaGra Salon and Day Spa today:
