TULALIP — Reuben Watkins got into hairstyling because he wanted to improve people’s moods, and he’s opened the Kings and Queens Barber and Beauty Shop in Quil Ceda Village to fill what he sees as an untapped need in the area.

“I love the way you can make people feel when they walk out of your shop, just by giving them haircuts,” Watkins said. “You can change their whole day.”

Kings and Queens is located in Unit N on 8825 34th Ave. NE, and will celebrate its official grand opening April 1. Watkins himself is a graduate of the Evergreen Beauty and Barber College, who opened the Fi-Zek Barber Shop in North Everett nearly four years ago. He was attracted to the Tulalip area because he sees it as a fast-growing population center to which an upscale barber and beauty shop would be well suited.

Watkins touted the shop’s selections of hair care lines that are exclusive to salons and formulated to respond to all types of hair. He likewise noted that he and his multi-ethnic staff of hair stylists and cosmetologists are equipped to cater to the unique hair and skin care needs of customers of all races.

“We don’t discriminate against anyone, black or white, male or female,” said Watkins, who is himself black. “Every man and woman should feel like a king and queen in this shop.”

Kings and Queens provides straight razor shaves, colors, perms and other haircuts and hair care to men, women and children, both walk-ins and by appointment, and is conveniently located near banks, restaurants and shopping outlets. The shop also gives discounts to senior citizens and military members.

Kings and Queens Barber and Beauty Shop is open Mondays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays by appointment only. For more information, call 360-716-3630.