Steamboat Friends Bring New Businesses to Oak Street

What does it take for two lifelong friends to turn a pipe dream into a reality, and bring new businesses to an iconic building in Steamboat Springs? For Sierra Fallon and Katie Thornton, it took a combination of friendship, entrepreneurship, and a willingness to take a leap of faith. The two friends, who met in third grade while growing up in Copper Mountain Estates, have brought their businesses to the iconic Oak Street building at 434 Oak Street, a property that was listed for sale after the previous owner, David Criste, passed away in June 2025.

$1.2 million - that's the approximate price tag for the building, which Fallon purchased in fall 2025. For comparison, that's roughly the same price as 3-4 single-family homes in the area. But for Fallon and Thornton, the investment was worth it, as it allowed them to bring their unique businesses to the heart of the city. Fallon's interior design firm, Moon Hill Interiors, which she founded three years ago, has moved into one part of the building, while Thornton's barber shop, The Parlor, has taken up residence in another part of the building.

Follow the money: Fallon's business has been growing steadily over the past few years, with a team of two full-time employees and a range of services that include full consultation, grab-and-go, and full-service design options. Thornton's business, on the other hand, offers a range of barber services, including hot lather neck shaves and traditional straight-edge shaves. The two women have worked together to create a seamless and welcoming experience for their customers, with a short walk down the hallway leading from one business to the other. The trend is clear: this city is experiencing a surge in new businesses and entrepreneurship, with a number of new shops and restaurants opening up downtown. For locals, this means more options and a more vibrant community, but it also means increased competition and a need for businesses to differentiate themselves.

That's a 20% increase in foot traffic - what Fallon and Thornton are hoping to see in the coming months, as their businesses become more established and word of their unique offerings spreads. The two women are optimistic about the future, and are excited to be a part of the thriving business community. As Fallon noted, "it seemed like a pipe dream" when she first saw the building come on the market, but now it's a reality, and one that she and Thornton are eager to build on.

A New Chapter for Oak Street

The Oak Street building has a long history, and Fallon and Thornton are eager to write a new chapter in its story. The building has been renovated and updated to meet the needs of the two businesses, with a modern and sleek aesthetic that reflects the unique personalities of the two women. As Thornton noted, "it's been my dream to have my own spot" for 20 years, and now that dream is a reality, thanks to her friendship and partnership with Fallon.

For comparison, the cost of renting a similar space in downtown areas can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per month, depending on the location and amenities. Fallon's decision to purchase the building outright has given her and Thornton the freedom to create a unique and welcoming space that reflects their values and personalities. The two women are committed to making their businesses a success, and are excited about the future. As they continue to build their businesses and establish themselves, they are likely to be a major part of the city's ongoing growth and development. The trend line is clear: this city is a place on the move, with a growing economy and a thriving business community, and Fallon and Thornton are poised to be a part of it.