Industry Professional Since 2002

Issam Bajalia’s path to the beauty industry wasn’t planned—it was inspired. Initially captivated by Aveda’s holistic and honest approach to beauty and wellness, Issam began meeting weekly with an Aveda stylist to learn the fundamentals of salon management. At the time, it was simply meant to be a side hustle to support his passion for counseling. But it quickly turned into so much more.

In 2002, he opened Salon U—a space built on intention, creativity, and the belief that great style begins with honest connection.

Industry Professional Since 2013

Born and raised in Homewood, Elizabeth joined the Salon U family in 2015 after a career in management. She will strike up a conversation with a perfect stranger and will leave with a best friend. She is most passionate about her relationships with people, and looks forward to greeting each guest with a smile! When she's not at work, she can be found near a body of water, watching anything on Bravo, and spending with her husband Sean, their daughter Withers and their dog Scilla.

Industry Professional Since 2017

You'll find yourself smiling upon entering the salon and being greeted with Michael's warm smile and kindness. Michael made Salon U his home in 2017 after years of working in the service industry and management, making him a subject-matter expert on customer service. He is determined to make every customer's experience perfect, and it brings him joy to hear them say they had a wonderful overall experience. When not behind the desk, Michael can be found writing, reading, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

Industry Professional Since 2023

AK joined Salon U in 2024 and brings a wonderful energy to everyone around her.

Industry Professional Since 2003

Nikki loves making her clients feel truly beautiful and has developed some amazing friendships with clients over the years. She found Salon U in 2005 after living an adventurous life and even working at Yellowstone National Park. She then moved to Alabama and got her start in the industry by apprenticing at a local salon where she developed a true love for the craft. Specializing in blondes and precision cuts along with expertise in all areas of hair, she will transform your look with ease. When Nikki isn’t behind the chair, she’s playing disc golf, catching a live music show, and taking it easy with her three children - Cooper, Lola, and Beck.

Industry Professional Since 2009

Benji’s zest for life and passion for hair shines through his work. Having naturally curly hair, he was always drawn to hair products and the curiosity eventually led him to become an apprentice and he joined the team in 2011. His love of comic book art goes hand in hand with his love of beautiful hair color, specifically natural and unnatural redheads. Benji also developed a passion for stylized men’s cuts and has created quite the clientele base for it. His goal is to give each and every guest the cut or color that they want, but also what works for their specific hair type and texture. Outside of work, Benji loves singing and playing guitar. He has been blessed with an incredible group of supportive friends and his perfect off day would include quality time spent near a body of water with his son.

Industry Professional Since 2012

Emily witnessed the joy and relationships that grew from something as simple as a haircut from her upbringing around her granddad’s barber shop. It became a lifelong dream to develop her future by serving others in the hair industry. Emily received her formal training through Salon U's apprenticeship program in 2012 and continues to expand her training to reflect the most current trends in the industry. She enjoys the daily creative challenge of working with hair and the freedom to inspire, share, and create here. She strongly believes in making her clients feel like their best selves. Outside of the salon, Emily can be found working in her garden growing vegetables, enjoying the outdoors with her husband and precious boxers, and making the people around her laugh.

Industry Professional Since 2005

Joshua migrated back to his southern roots and joined the Salon U team in 2014 after years of refining his craft in Brooklyn, New York. He began his journey as a freelance makeup artist in 2005, and then attended the Aveda Institute Birmingham, earning a degree in cosmetology and makeup design. After school he moved to Brooklyn to advance his skills by working in a fashion-forward, fast-paced environment and even worked styling the Brooklyn Nets dance team for two seasons. He then moved back to Birmingham to continue growing his career. Joshua carefully blends his southern style with a sophisticated New York edge, bringing a special touch to each of his clients. His portfolio includes styling for book covers, fashion shows, and movies. He is passionate about sharing his unique approach of making you feel and look beyond your best, because as he says "Every day is your runway!" Outside of the U, Joshua can be found enjoying time with friends and family and traveling the world.

Check out his Instagram to see his work!

Industry Professional Since 2009

Paige always had a passion for hair and the creative freedom it allows her. After graduating from the Aveda Institute Birmingham, she quickly began building a strong clientele after joining the team in 2015. She has a true love of Aveda products and color, the company beliefs, and the ways that Aveda gives back to the community. Paige enjoys creating a complete transformation with her clients and elevating their look with sophistication and ease, particularly blondes. When not creating hair magic, Paige enjoys creative photoshoots and hanging with her husband, Sam, their sons Owen and Milo, and their two dogs.

Check out her work on Instagram

Industry Professional Since 2015

Makayla always knew that she wanted to become a hairstylist and after graduating from the Aveda Institute Birmingham in 2015 at the top of her class, she joined the team at Salon U shortly after. Makayla craves education, and can often be found researching the latest techniques online, as well as participating in continuing education. Showing outwardly with an infectious smile, Makayla takes joy in seeing her clients feel beautiful. When not in the salon, she enjoys being with her husband Jordan, playing with their four dogs, playing video games, and spending time with friends.

Industry Professional Since 2011

Ella chased her lifelong dream of being a part of the beauty industry when her career path in the corporate finance world ran aground. Originally from the capital of Persia, Tehran, Ella moved to the United States in 1994. After graduating from cosmetology school in 2011, and upon entering the salon world, she found herself being recognized for her singular talent and eventually joined the team here. Education is important to her and she continues to attend advanced classes so she may implement the latest hair techniques to her skill set. Ella is competent in all hair types and colors but has a unique propensity for blondes. She is a certified Keratin Complex expert, and not only is she wonderful at hair straightening techniques, but she is also an eyebrow threading expert! Her goal is to ensure that every guest leaves her chair with confidence and a smile. When she’s not behind the chair, Ella loves to spend quality time with her family and travel the world.

Industry Professional Since 1994

Chuck pursued his true love of hair with a deep understanding of color theory after graduating with a Fine Arts degree from Auburn University. He has a wide array of experience with all types of hair, and has worked in amazing places such as the Upper East Side of New York City and Puerto Rico. With tenure in the industry, Chuck is a subject matter expert on all things hair. You're sure to leave his chair with a smile on your face from laughing because in his spare time, Chuck is a talented actor. Outside of the salon, he enjoys spending time with friends, hanging with his kitty cats Star Kitty, Mr. T. and Miss Vanjie, and acting in local theater productions.

Industry Professional Since 2016

After living part of her life in California, Kris fulfilled her dreams of being in the hair industry. She joined the team in 2017 after she graduated from the Aveda Institute Birmingham in 2016. Hair was love at first sight to her. Notorious for obsessively organizing and keeping things tidy, Kris is very detail-oriented when completing looks for her clients. She enjoys learning new techniques and living for the experience of learning every day. Making her clients feel comfortable and providing them with luxurious experiences is what brings Kris joy. She loves to relax and enjoy time with her puppy and friends when not at work.

Industry Professional Since 2011

Moldova native Tatiana is our skincare queen. She has a medical spa background with a deep love for skin. Her approach to skin is results-driven, and she enjoys seeing her clients react to those results. She is thorough and thoughtful about her clients' experience - from when they walk into the room to when they leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. She specializes in microblading, facials (vitamin C, hydrolifting, and collagen), chemical peels, and waxing. Outside the salon, Tatiana enjoys cooking and spending time with her husband and young children.

Check out her Instagram to see her work.

Industry Professional Since 2013

Logan says it's the best reward when his clients love the way they look and that is the reason he is so passionate about hair. He graduated from the Aveda Institute Birmingham in 2013 and joined the the team in 2018. His timely services and attention to detail leave clients feeling they’ve been taken completely care of. He enjoys not only completing the look but also educating his clients on how to achieve their style at home every day. In Logan's free time, he enjoys traveling, shopping, and spending quality time with others.

Industry Professional Since 2007

Her years of experience, bright energy, and true passion for hair leave Britney’s clients feeling like they’ve made a new friend. She enjoys sculpting the perfect haircut to meet her clients' specific needs and desires. Britney says she feels fortunate to have found a career she is so passionate about. When clients are in Britney's chair, she desires for them to feel confident and provides them with tools for being able to achieve their styles effortlessly when at home. When Britney is not at the U, she enjoys traveling, exploring the outdoors, music festivals, and yoga.

Industry Professional Since 2019

Lindsey is a dedicated hairstylist and proud mom of three with over five years of experience in the beauty industry.

Known for her laid-back and genuine approach-with a fun, silly side that keeps the salon atmosphere light-she creates a welcoming space where clients feel comfortable and cared for.

She specializes in women's hair and excels at crafting looks that are not only stylish but also practical and easy to maintain for each client's lifestyle.

Whether it's a fresh cut, color, or a full transformation, Lindsey is committed to helping women feel confident, beautiful, and like the best version of themselves.

Industry Professional Since 2005

Originally hailing from Kennedy, Alabama, James Thomas began his journey styling hair at the tender age of 14. His career has since soared to heights that this small-town boy could have never imagined. James is an Aveda certified color specialist and a national VoMor hair extensions educator. He has also worked as an educator for the Aveda Institute in Birmingham. As an active stylist for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week NYC, he has worked with top designers Nicole Miller, Richard Chai, Milly, Tibi, and Adeam. James has had his work published in the New York Times, Huffington Post, and numerous other local and national media outlets. He has also been celebrated for his hair extension work on stage at Elevate Hair.

“At the end of the day, it’s all about using every tool in my belt to make my guests feel like the most beautiful version of themselves,” says James. “That’s what keeps my heart in my work.”

Industry Professional Since 2021

Since the day she walked in the door, we knew we would love her! Her infectious smile and positive attitude draw you in immediately! Born and raised in Birmingham, her family is pretty close, likes to have fun, and is very active. After taking a semester off from UAB, her husband asked her what she wanted to do, knowing her passion for hair. Encouraged by his support, she embarked on a new path at Aveda, fueling her curiosity and love for learning. With determination and drive, she forged her own way, and that's how she ended up here in 2021, making a mark with her talent and passion. You can find her at home doing something active with her husband Mike, their daughter Cooper and their dogs!

Industry Professional Since 2014

Industry Professional Since 2019

Originally from Texas, Robert has lived in Alabama for the last decade. After graduating from Paul Mitchell The School in 2010, he later joined Salon U in 2023. Always striving for excellence behind the chair, Robert loves to encourage and empower his clients to try something new or different where they can truly express themselves as confident individuals. Channeling that same passion, Robert became a Neill Certified Cutting Educator in 2022. His goal as an educator is to encourage his fellow Aveda Artists to elevate their skills by trying new things, and most importantly believing in themselves and their ability to do great things!

Industry Professional Since 2023

Meet Noah, a passionate young barber who's just getting started in the hair industry but already making his mark through dedication, creativity, and a genuine love for men's grooming.

With a strong focus on building lasting relationships with his clients, Noah brings a fresh energy to the barbershop, combining classic techniques with a modern approach.

Outside of the chair, you'll find him catching up on sports, enjoying music, or spending time with friends. His laidback personality and commitment to continuous learning make every visit not just a haircut, but an experience.

Whether it's a clean fade, a sharp lineup, or advice on styling, Noah is all about helping clients look and feel their best.

Industry Professional Since 2023

Autumn is a passionate apprentice stylist at Salon U, with a special love for working with women’s hair. She is dedicated to mastering her craft, always eager to learn new techniques to help every client leave feeling beautiful, confident, and refreshed.

Known for her bright, bubbly personality and fun, goofy spirit, Autumn creates a welcoming and uplifting environment for everyone who sits in her chair. Her goal is to make each appointment not only transformative but also genuinely enjoyable.

When she’s not in the salon, you’ll find Autumn soaking up time at the river, enjoying live shows, or spending quality time with her husband and their dogs. She’s excited to continue growing in her career and looks forward to connecting with new clients along the way

Industry Professional Since 2023

Cameron is a licensed massage therapist who believes our hands are a gift and through them, we can channel the love in our hearts to relieve the suffering of those around us. Cameron a Homewood local, graduated from the University of South Alabama and then attended Wiregrass School of Massage Therapy in Dothan, Al. With every client, he brings excellence in various massage techniques. He is committed to providing consistent, high-quality, customer service. You will find his customer service to be professional, respectful, and friendly. In addition to massage therapy, Cameron enjoys reading, traveling out of the country, beach trips, exercise, and perfecting his craft.

Industry Professional Since 2019

Nancy is such a delightful, warm, welcoming person, and we are so glad to have her! Originally from the Philippines, she has three brothers and three sisters, and they are all very close! If she could choose one word to describe her family and culture, that word would be “LOYALTY”! She came to us at Salon U in 2019 through her brother-in-law, Issam! Her specialty is shampoos, scalp massages, and treatments! Many guests have said she has “magic fingers” when it comes to her shampoos, and we agree! In her spare time, she likes exercising, cooking, gardening, spending time with her family, and visiting coffee shops with her husband!

Industry Professional Since 2017

Industry Professional Since 1987

Born and raised in Birmingham, Rachel began her career as a nail tech right out of high school. Though she thought it would only be a summer job, she quickly realized her passion for it, and mastered her skills right away! Rachel's favorite part of her job is seeing the confidence that her guests have when they leave her chair. As she says, "You just feel better when your nails and toes look good!" As a hobby, Rachel also makes jewelry, and she loves to cook and bake. She is also passionate about travel and adores spending time with her cat.