There’s a speak-easy type entrance to The Temple, a luxury extension and natural hair color salon at 104 N. El Camino Real, Suite B. Along the sidewalk between Choice, the super food bar and juicer and South of Nicks Mexican Kitchen and Bar, a gate leads upstairs to a large wooden door. When opened, one enters Shangri-La, a sacred space where hair transformation begins.  At the helm of this destination for natural hair extensions and elevated eco-conscious beauty is owner/stylist Jacqui Veta. 

Celebrating their first anniversary in October of this year, Jacqui says that to her a temple isn’t just a structure, it’s a feeling, a mindset, a space where one can be cared for and pampered. Jacqui and her three expert stylists have been in the industry for over 20 years in South Orange County. The team uses a bespoke approach in choosing from the best extension methods available to craft a look that feels seamless, natural, and aligned with one’s lifestyle.

Jacqui’s extensive background in hair care started when she attended cosmetology school while still in high school. Her career began as a color specialist with Toni and Guy. She then advanced to the role of educator at Daniel Michael for over 16 years.

Before she opened her own business in San Clemente last year, she was an educator at DKW Styling Salon in Laguna Beach. 

   According to Jacqui, The Temple is more than a destination for great hair. It’s a sanctuary, a sacred space where transformation begins from the inside out. The stylists are the most trusted artists of hair extensions specializing in seamless beaded row extensions, crown topper hair loss solutions, and customized hair color services. The stylists use the Areté hair care line in the low-tox color treatments. This botanical- infused hair and scalp care gently refreshes from root to ends and builds off a nutritive blend of plant butters and oils to promote moisture, strength, and protection. Satisfied clients consist of women ages early 30s to late 50s with the exception of a stunning 73-year-old. 

A luxurious beauty experience at The Temple could take anywhere from three to five hours, so guests are offered, free of charge, choices from a seasonal menu including organic snacks, coffee, and cocktails. “We also order food from select local restaurants for our extension guests,” Jacqui says.

She lives in San Clemente with her husband, Drew MacKinnon and their 2 ½ year old son, Liam. The couple enjoys traveling around the Middle Eastern/Asian countries, and the décor of The Temple exudes their passion and design talent. Rugs, pillows, and prints from Turkey decorate the space, and the powder room’s walls and ceiling are covered with the powerful energy of a tiger print.

   Along with the skillful stylists of The Temple, Dana, Salon Manager and Concierge, will

assist a new client in making an appointment. The process involves a 30-minute personalized chat with Dana over the phone before a booking is confirmed. Potential guests are invited to send photos of themselves and what they wish to achieve.