By Brittany Wiley
BAPA Business Liaison
Meg’n Barba opened Tranquility Salon with her sister, Katie Barba Schickel, in January 2007. She was 21 years old, a young mother will little knowledge of business practices, but she knew she wanted to create an environment that made people feel good. And for 14 years, Barba did just that and more. She is honored that she has been able to connect with and support so many beautiful people doing amazing things.
At the end of 2020, Barba relinquished ownership of the salon to focus on her new venture: Joplin Marley Studios, 9911 S. Walden Pkwy.
“It has been a gift beyond measure to have been able to anchor this business district on Walden as we have evolved, expanded, relocated, and reinvented ourselves time and time again,” Barba said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to have witnessed four new businesses open our block in the middle of the entire world shutting down. Not only does that speak volumes about Walden, but it has inspired me in a whole new way.” A few years ago, Barba and Schickel took residency of the space that’s now studio with no real plan other than to “preserve the creative integrity of life on Walden and see that it moved in the right direction.” The space has been used to host music, art shows, workshops and pop-up shops.
“The intention behind the studio is and always has been to create a heart-centered, soul-focused, safe space for people to connect and create freely,” Barba said.
2020 gave Barba the opportunity to “press pause and to reflect” on new ways to serve the community and reinvent herself. And she shifted more focus on new ideas for Joplin Marley Studios.
Barba started the new year with new opportunities at the Studio. She will be hosting regular retreats, workshops and classes on subjects such as music, manifestation, deliberate creating, yoga meditation, sound therapy and co-creating conscious culture. Guest speakers, creative offerings and tailored packages will help guide patrons on journeys of self-exploration and encourage growth on all levels. The Studio is also available to rent for podcasting, photo shoots, mastermind groups, art and music, workshops and classes.
“It is time we awaken to the nature of who we are as human beings and not only recognize, but find new ways to express and experience ourselves fully, safely, and in positive ways; individually and as a collective,” Barba said. “It has been an incredible journey, but I do believe the best is yet to come!”
To reach Barba for information on renting the studio or collaborating, drop a line to joplinmarleystudios@gmail.com or stop by the space. To stay up to date on events at Joplin Marley Studios, follow @joplinmarleystudios on Instagram.
