BEGAN
HOW OUR
Story
Hazel Odessa Rhodes
Hazel O. was an army wife, mother, philanthropist, an active member of her local church, and continued to service clients until she passed at the age of 85 in 2016.
In creating Hazel O. Salon, Marcia and Nikita wanted to provide guests with the same warmth, empowerment, and beautiful hair that their grandmother so gracefully did for fifty plus years. This in mind, it was only right that the salon be set in the epicenter of historic Old Town Alexandria.
"Our grandmother took pride in what is now known as today “self-care.” She graduated from beauty school and serviced clients out of her home where women left feeling beautiful on the inside and out as a result of her warmth, wisdom, and talent."
— Nikita Montgomery
"Paying homage to our grandmother, we designed a luxe, Floridian, loft-style salon with emerald accents - a nod to our grandmother’s home state, and birthstone. The classic furniture mimics her Alexandria home, and live plants adorn the space in honor of grandma’s green thumb."
—Marcia Rhodes Tyler
The two refer to Hazel O. as the quintessential urban beauty oasis, where clients can escape the intensity of the city in a tropical, soothing environment. Guests can enjoy the calming vibe of the salon while getting their hair, lashes, and brows done. The space includes a curated selection of stationery, candles, and the like made by local makers and small business owners from across the country. Hazel O. Salon also features a designated area with a platform ideal for industry classes and events.
Through Hazel O. Marcia and Nikita endeavor to continue their grandmother’s legacy while creating a new standard for salon culture. “Our goal is to provide services that guests rave about, products that meet the needs of all hair textures, and stylists that can achieve both.”
MEET THE TEAM |
LWAM HABTAB
Lwam learned to do hair at age 11 and practiced her craft on her 7 curly sisters. Later she graduated from Aveda Arts & Science Institute and went on to be a braider, a makeup artist and event hair stylist before joining Hazel O. Salon. Lwam strives to make her clients happy by making their vision a reality. She loves a good transformation whether it be color cut, or overall health of the hair. Lwam is a Jack of all trades when it comes to art. In her spare time, she enjoys creative activities like painting, drawing, cooking and embroidery while listening to true crime podcasts.
IG: @myyhairlady
ALEXUS BERMUDEZ
Alexus is a west coast transplant who has brought that style with her in full force. Her hair career was born in 2011 and has transpired greatly since, now fine-tuned into a color specialist. Her guests love the conversation, the ease of her presence and leaving the salon feeling fresh. Alexus loves all things color and is able to achieve the most complex transformations with ease. She's worked in elite salons from Denver to D.C. and has found her home at Hazel O.
IG: @alexus.hair
DIANA JOYA
Diana came to Hazel O. in September of 2020 as the salon's first apprentice and has been eager to learn as much about her craft ever since. Despite having started her career in the beauty industry as a makeup artist, and eventually learning to do nails, Diana always had an interest in becoming a hairstylist. Diana loves doing color services, quickly becoming familiar with the Wella color line. When she isn’t at the salon, Diana loves spending time with her family and her four-legged bestie, Pumba. Born in El Salvador, Diana's favorite food is pupusas, a traditional favorite.
IG @styled.diana
BETHANY O'CONNELL
Bethany’s love for beauty began early, growing up in Charlotte, North Carolina, where creativity and self-expression were always part of her world. Bethany specializes in healthy, dimensional hair color—from soft, lived-in blondes to rich, multi-tonal brunettes. Her approach is rooted in enhancing natural beauty through thoughtful customization, whether that’s a perfectly tailored color, a confidence-boosting blowout, or a refreshing cut. Her background includes work in fashion shows, NFL cheer teams, and celebrity styling, bringing a polished yet approachable edge to every appointment. Bethany is passionate about creating a personalized, welcoming experience for every client. She believes great hair starts with connection—being a friend behind the chair, listening closely, and making sure each client feels seen, comfortable, and completely at ease.
IG: @THECAPITOLBLONDIE
ALICIA PRICE
Alicia’s Hair Journey began in 2021 when she recognized the damage to her own hair and felt inspired to help other women protect and understand their hair health. She pursued her passion at the Aveda Arts & Science Institute, where she refined her skills and deepened her knowledge. From the start, Alicia’s goal has been to create a welcoming space for everyone. Whether it’s a fresh cut, color, or a healthy hair plan, she’s passionate about helping each guest feel confident and cared for. Outside of the salon, Alicia enjoys reading, traveling the world, and exploring new restaurants in the area.
IG: @SIMPLYYSTYLEDD
EMILY HURTON
Emily Hurton is a recent high school graduate and the newest member of our team, joining us as an apprentice. With a strong passion for learning and a natural eye for detail, Emily is excited to begin her journey in the industry and gain hands-on experience. She brings a positive attitude, eagerness to grow, and a willingness to jump in wherever she’s needed. Outside of work, Emily enjoys exploring new creative outlets and spending time with friends and family.
IVY ANDERSON
Ivy was rooted in beauty at a very young age. She grew up in a salon as her mother was a cosmetologist and an instructor. This is where she first fell in love with the art of transformation and cosmetic care. After studying cosmetology in high school, she discovered her true passion for skincare and education. Later becoming a licensed esthetician in 2017, Ivy has been redefining what confidence feels like—one appointment at a time. Ivy is passionate about creating a personal, tailored experience for every client. She believes that hair removal is never one-size-fits-all; every skin type, hair type, and lifestyle deserves its own thoughtful approach. Her focus remains the same no matter the service: cleanliness, client comfort, and confidence above all else.
IG: @WILDIVYSKINPARLOR
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Q&A
What do you specialize in?
Our team is comprised of a diverse group of stylists specializing in various hair types, textures, and styles. We welcome you to look at our portfolio and our Instagram, if you have any questions please feel free to contact us.
Where should guests park?
Metered parking is plenteous, as well as an affordable paid lot located on St. Asaph & Columbus (about two blocks away). There are also a handful of free parking options on Queen St. (also about two blocks away).
How does your pricing work?
Pricing is based on the stylist and their level of expertise in a specific area, thus you may notice that some stylists services are priced higher or lower than others. Prices found at booking are also base prices and could increase based on length, density, additional chemicals, etc. Pricing is typically discussed and confirmed before the service begins if there are additional fees. If at any point you have questions about the total cost of the service we encourage guests to ask their stylists.
Do you accept tips via credit/debit card?
We love our stylists and encourage guests to tip, this in mind, we've made it easy for guests to tip by accepting tips via credit/debit card. Cash tips are also welcome, but not required.
What if I'm running behind?
Please plan for your reservation accordingly by mapping out arrival times, parking, etc. If you expect to be late please call the salon and let your stylist know. We will make every effort to accommodate you up to 15 minutes after your scheduled time, however we cannot guarantee appointments beyond this grace period. Should you have to reschedule, or fail to show at all - you will be charged per our cancellation policy (accessible in our salon policies).
Are children and pets allowed?
Per salon policy, children under 12, additional guests (not being serviced), and pets are not allowed.