Blo Blow Dry Bar Expands into Kentucky with Local Franchise Owner

LOUISVILLE, Ky., April 20, 2026 // PRNewswire // -- Blo Blow Dry Bar is expanding into Kentucky with its first location in Louisville, led by local entrepreneur Mary Sumpter. A Louisville native, Sumpter has signed her first franchise agreement to bring the brand to her hometown, with plans to open in the city's East End and long-term goals of expanding to multiple locations across the region.

Sumpter brings extensive experience in operations, team leadership and client service, most recently working in the legal field. After years of managing businesses for others, she decided to pursue entrepreneurship and build a business rooted in hospitality, confidence, and community connection.

"I've always dreamed of owning my own business, and I was immediately drawn to the simplicity and accessibility of the blow dry bar model," said Sumpter. "I saw an opportunity to create a welcoming space where guests can take time for themselves, relax, and leave feeling confident and refreshed. Exceptional customer service will be at the heart of everything we do."

The new Blo Blow Dry Bar is expected to open in late spring or early summer 2026, pending final lease execution and build-out. The salon will be located in a high-traffic East End shopping center that attracts a strong volume of visitors annually and is surrounded by complementary retail and beauty businesses.

As a lifelong Louisville resident, Sumpter intentionally chose to invest in her hometown. With major annual events such as the Kentucky Derby, a thriving wedding market, and a strong base of young professionals and university students, she sees significant opportunity to serve a wide range of guests.

Community involvement will be a cornerstone of Blo Louisville's approach. Sumpter plans to collaborate with local salons, med spas, and women-owned businesses to build strategic partnerships within the beauty space. She also intends to explore charitable initiatives focused on pediatric health causes that are personally meaningful to her family.

Supported by her daughter, who holds a business degree and will assist with operations, Sumpter views this first location as the foundation for broader expansion. 

"Mary's passion for entrepreneurship and her commitment to her community embody exactly what we look for in a Blo franchise partner," said Vanessa Yakobson, CEO of Blo Blow Dry Bar. "We're thrilled to welcome her to the Blo family and look forward to seeing her bring the brand to life in Louisville."

SOURCE Blo Blow Dry Bar

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