Elements on Van Cleef: A Beacon of Renewal and Community in Seneca Falls

​We are delighted to announce that Elements on Van Cleef has been honored as the 2024 Seneca County Small Business of the Year in the Service-Based category by the Seneca County Chamber of Commerce.

At the edge of Van Cleef Lake in downtown Seneca Falls, Elements on Van Cleef has transformed a beautiful historic building — once the town’s library — into a vibrant gathering place. Above the entrance, an ornamental stained glass lamp burns brightly, originally symbolizing the oil of wisdom. This image, combined with the three Ayurvedic elements of holistic wellness, served as inspiration for the branding and logo of this unique business.


Owner Sheryl Puylara brings decades of experience in salon services to her venture. After years of working with and later purchasing an existing salon business, Sheryl eventually operated out of a separate location in another town. As the pandemic reshaped the business landscape and facility management shifted, she made the difficult decision to close that location and reconsider her future path.


Amidst the uncertainty of Covid closures, a stroke of luck led Sheryl to a well-maintained historic building with ample room for growth right in the heart of Seneca Falls. In June 2020, she officially opened the doors to a new chapter: Elements on Van Cleef.


Today, the facility offers a thoughtfully curated experience. Visitors entering the main reception space find a mini boutique featuring apparel made from natural and organic fibers, locally sourced coffee and chocolates, and other specialty goods. Natural light pours into the expansive salon area, offering a stunning view of Van Cleef Lake. The main floor also features dedicated manicure and pedicure spaces, as well as a full commercial kitchen.

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Downstairs, clients discover rooms for massage, reiki, and acupuncture services. In 2024, the lower level expanded to include a vino-therapy soaking tub — a luxurious air bath utilizing a pressed grape soak for a one-of-a-kind relaxation experience.


Always looking to innovate, Sheryl’s husband Chris Puylara pursued his own dream in 2024, leading the creation of a cozy speakeasy in the lower level. During speakeasy hours, the usual spa ambiance transitions to soft jazz, and guests can relax indoors or enjoy the lake view from the outdoor seating. During Seneca Falls’ famous "It's a Wonderful Life" festival weekend, the speakeasy transformed into "Nick’s Place" from the beloved movie, welcoming over 500 visitors as part of the town’s recreation of the classic film experience.


Through it all, Sheryl and Chris’s passion, creativity, and commitment to community shine through every corner of Elements on Van Cleef. Their entrepreneurial spirit — taking risks, trying new ideas, and investing in their community — makes them a powerful example of small business innovation and resilience.

Reflecting on her journey, Sheryl shared her experience working with the SBDC:

"The SBDC was very helpful with securing a grant and providing resource partner contacts to support the opening of the speakeasy at our business site."


Thanks to their vision and dedication, Elements on Van Cleef stands as a testament to the power of revitalization, creativity, and the entrepreneurial spirit — a true gem of Seneca Falls.