Courtesy Ann Donnelly
By Ann Donnelly
For three years, Judy Viger operated Salon V out of a “hidden” location off Exit 16 in Wilton. It was a modest start, intended to be a quiet venture for Viger and perhaps one other stylist. However, business grew at a pace that demanded a larger stage. Following her father’s long-standing advice to “walk before you run,” Viger decided it was finally time to sprint.
On Dec. 1, 2025, Salon V officially opened its doors in the newly developed Moreau Commons. Located south of South Glens Falls on the busy corridor toward Northway Exit 17 and Saratoga, the move marks a significant evolution for the business, trading seclusion for a high-traffic storefront and an expanded suite of wellness services.
Viger, a veteran of the local hair industry with nearly 20 years of experience, did not always envision herself as a salon owner. For much of her career, she was content renting booths at various shops along the same route where her new business now sits. Her priority was always flexibility; as a mother of four sons, she refused to let a career interfere with their milestones.
“I have four sons that are grown now, but I was lucky to be able to make my own schedule for the most part,” Viger said. “I never missed out on their games and their practices and important things. My clients were great; they knew that I was a mom first and a hairdresser second.”
The shift toward ownership only came when her youngest son left for college, leaving behind a quiet house and a new sense of professional restlessness.
“I kind of felt like an emptiness,” Viger said. “I felt like I needed to find something else to do. I found a location and was like, ‘I’m going to do this.’ I was able to finally put more time into myself and my career and do something that I’d never been able to do before.”
