For students from pre-school to college, it just would not be back-to-school season without a trip to their favorite hair salon or barber. 

In between shopping for new school supplies and clothing, many families spent time at the different hair stylists in the Caldwells last week.

At Hair Design by Flora, owner Flora DePalma said this past week was extremely busy.

"It's like the start of the new year. In addition to back to school, everyone is back from vacation and heading back to work," she said.

While DePalma spoke, she trimmed and styled the hair of a James Caldwell High School (JCHS) student. The trip to Hair Design was the second stop for this teenager, after her brother, a student at Grover Cleveland Middle School, had received a buzz cut earlier in the day at Angelo's Barber Shop.

Across the room, hair stylist Kelly Vesco was busy highlighting the hair of Emily Sanchez and her mother, Diane Sanchez. Emily Sanchez, a 2012 graduate of JCHS, was getting ready to spend her last night in the Caldwells before her mother drives her to Rowan University on Friday.

Other shops have reported business was brisk last week. At Amici Salon & Spa, owner Maria Cicero reports this is "typical" for this time of the year. Cicero also noted children of all ages have made a visit to her salon.

Hair Stop owner Diana Ross also notes business is up. To encourage students to make a trip, Ross is running a 10% off special on all back-to-school haircuts.

While Panico Salon & Spa is not offering a specific back to school special, this salon does offer a weekday special of $10 off any kids' haircuts. 

To entice families to choose Supercuts, this salon has been running a themed event since Sunday.

In the spirit of the 2012 Summer Olympics, the hair dressers at Supercuts are sporting athletic uniforms from different countries and Olympic events. The receptionist, Maya, told Patch she plans to dress as a member of the U.S. track and field team.