The Velvet Panther was founded by Knoxville locals, Chynna Longo, Mackenzie Evans, and Nick Moran in 2023. They opened the doors in Spring of 2024 after a comprehensive remodel of a downtown office space. Working off of the current 1980s design style of the space, they curated a step back in time for Stylists and Clients, notating touches of the past with the comforts of today!
Chynna is one of our co-owners & a color specialist who has been licensed for 8+ years. She loves blondes, reds, and vivids. In 2023 she began managing Bat’n Rouge another downtown local business with her partner Nick Moran. She’s our resident social media expert! You can catch her on the weekends reading a fantasy novel, snuggling with her 4 cats, or hitting the thrift stores and estate sales. As a lover of vintage and anything 80’s she has been meticulously curating our space to capture the essence of a true 80s hair salon. Her favorite thing about doing hair is being able to pamper her clients and seeing their reaction after a big transformation!
Mackenzie, our other co-owner, has over a decade of experience as a licensed cosmetologist, she brings passion, expertise, and a love for vintage aesthetics to the heart of our salon. Driven by a dream to create a space where everyone feels welcomed and at ease, she has curated an environment that blends timeless charm with modern flair. Outside the salon, you’ll often find her exploring vintage treasures during weekend thrifting adventures or cuddled up with her beloved cat, who holds a special place in their heart. Mackenzie specializes in crafting effortlessly stylish cuts and stunning, low-maintenance colors that accentuate your natural beauty. With a keen eye for detail and a dedication to personalized service, she ensures each client leaves feeling confident and radiant.
Nick Moran is a local downtown business owner and service provider. The Velvet Panther is his 4th business in Knoxville’s Old City. He began opening service industry businesses with the intent to put the provider before profit. He opened a Knoxville location for his brand Riverside Tattoo Company in January of 2020 where he still makes tattoos full time. In September of 2022, Local Collective opened 2 blocks north of Riverside, aiming to provide affordable work spaces for Knoxville’s incredible creative community. In April of 2023, he acquired Bat’n Rouge Beauty, located next door to Local Collective. In March of 2024, located 2 blocks west of Riverside, and compounding on the thriving beauty industry of Downtown Knoxville, The Velvet Panther opened it’s doors.
Now that you know a little about us, we would love to get to know you! Stop in, say hello, or schedule an appointment with a member of our growing team! We love you and look forward to meeting you!
-TVP