About Us
our Environment: upscale, immaculate environment, an energetic and exciting ambiance full of original art work and unique design
our Size: NOT a chain, we have a genuine interest in each client we service
our Little Extras: scalp massage and hand treatment, refreshments and makeup touch-ups with every service
our Quality: Aveda Hair, Skin and Body Products, Chi & Solano Styling Tools
our Education: educating our clients and educating ourselves through annual trips to New York and Chicago bringing the best techniques to you
our Commitment to Community: giving through philanthropic events
our Departmentalization: mastery comes from our specialization
our Communication: consultation procedures in place to guarantee desired look is achieved
Mission: Our mission at Salon Spa W is to provide upscale service and style like Des Moines has yet to see, turning every client into a ravingFAN.
Departmentalization: Just as you would experience at top salons in New York and Chicago, we are departmentalized. This means our staff specializes in either cutting or color. This specialization allows our staff to be experts in their area of focus.
Education: We take education seriously at Salon Spa W and strive to set the benchmark in excellence for Des Moines. We operate on a level system based on industry experience and education. Each member of our team completes an extensive advanced education program that takes approximately one year to complete. Our advanced stylists continue education with weekly classes and out-of-state education trips in order to train with the best in the industry.
China
OWNER
ChinaWong is a graduate of Iowa State University and began her career in the Chicago finance industry. As a client of up-scale Chicago salons, China was mesmerized by the innovative environments, skilled stylists and superb service. She aspired to join their ranks and attended the prestigious Aveda Institute Chicago. Following completion of her program she was recruited to work for the international renowned Van Michael salon located in Atlanta. She moved to Atlanta to study under industry leaders like Natalie Gurley (2004 NAHA finalist for Colorist of the Year).
China then partnered with Meredith Venesile (Aveda Global Educator) as a senior colorist for Asha salon in downtown Chicago. China’s client list is extensive and has included Barack Obama, Supermodel Emme, Michele Norris and NFL Cheerleaders from the Atlanta Falcons to name a few.
China has honed her skills in some of the most competitive markets in the country. She opened Salon Spa W in 2005 to bring her experiences, education and up-scale service to Des Moines. Under her leadership Salon Spa W has been named one of the Top 100 Salons in the U.S. by Elle Magazine. Salon Spa W has also received industry recognition from Salon Today Magazine as one of the Top 200 Salons in the U.S. 2011, 2012 & 2013.
*China is no longer taking new clients, but has several staff members that have been trained in her approach and studied with her for years.
STYLIST
Level 5, Haircut $69 Katie Jo’s life is inspired by art. She enjoys discussing and considering all the visual inspiration around her. She seeks inspiration thru fashion, architecture, painting and education with industry leaders. She attends styling and cutting classes around the country, including trips to New York City for time with industry superstars Ian Michael Black and Gerard Scarpaci. Every year she spends a week in Chicago studying the latest techniques at the Vidal Sassoon Academy. She uses her eye for design to create the most flattering silhouettes and shapes possible for her clients. Her Bachelors degree in Fine Arts furthers her ability to serve as our Director of Cutting and develop our new talent. She was named Salon Spa W hairstylist of the year and MVP in 2011. Katie Jo is one of the most sought after hairdressers, so please consider booking with her several weeks in advance to accommodate your needs.
STYLIST
Level 3, Haircut $49Mollie is one of our most popular stylists. Mollie’s diverse life experiences help her connect with every client and create a truly fun salon experience. She loves to travel and one of her favorite adventures was attending a cutting class in New York City with Nick Arrojo from What Not To Wear. Her passion for technical excellence has also led her to seek education from world-renowned stylists like Vidal Sassoon International Creative Director, Mark Hayes. As a former New Orleans and New Hampshire resident, Mollie brings big city style and diversity back to the Midwest.
STYLIST
Level 3, Haircut $49
Juut salon in Minneapolis was established by the founder of Aveda and is well known for turning out very talented stylists. Anna began her career at Juut and lives up to their reputation for turning out talent. She has trained at the Vidal Sassoon Academy in San Francisco and has trained with leading artists like Woody Theis, Jeffrey Goldstein, Daniel Holzberger and Nathanial Hawkins. She is a graduate of the Aveda Institute Minneapolis and holds a Bachelor of Arts from degree from Earlham University. Anna has a cool, modern sense of style that affords her the ability to make great recommendations for your hair. Anna serves as the Director of Education and inspires our team every single day.
STYLIST
Level 2, Haircut $39 Elle has a warm and vivacious personality and an obvious passion for the beauty industry. Elle is a very efficient stylist and has a large following of male guests that love her accurate cuts created in an efficient time frame. She also loves styling techniques and produces beautiful blowouts. Elle has an education in business and marketing from Iowa State University and is a Salon Spa W Advanced Education Graduate. She is a certified Aveda Mentor and was also named Salon Spa W MVP in 2010.
STYLIST
Level 1, Haircut $35 Liv is a rising star at Salon Spa W. She has a down-to-earth manner, yet is meticulous about haircutting. She is passionate about wearable styles that suit guest’s lifestyle, face shape and hair texture. She particularly enjoys mens hairstyling and grooming recommendations. Liv is a great listener and an accommodating stylist that will impress you.
COLORIST
Level 3, Single Process Color $70
Who is everyone raving about these days? Our colorist, LANCE! Not a day passes without hearing “Lance is amazing!” or “My hair has never looked so good!” We aren’t sure if it is Lance’s passion for hairdressing, sweet nature or keen eye for enhancing your best features, but one thing is certain, he is talented. So talented that Lance has attended the Advanced New York Color Academy several times as rewards for winning competitions. In 2012 he was one of eight people across the country that was chosen to attend the Advanced Academy’s first Immersion for Inspiration. He was named Salon Spa W colorist of the year in 2010 & 2011.
COLORIST
Level 2, Single Process Color $60
Blakelee is an experienced salon professional that has realized her true passion in color. She treats each visit like an opportunity to refine your best attributes and has brilliant suggestions on how to enhance your features. She is funny, witty and outgoing. She believes in the beauty of people inside and out. She enjoys traveling, fitness and giving brides the best experience on their wedding day. You will love her!
COLORIST
Level 1, Single Process Color $55
Alyssa is a second-generation hairdresser and exudes natural talent! While growing up in the beauty industry she found her passion in hair color. She expertly customizes color formulations to create the most flattering color for guests’ skin tones. She is particularly in tune with redheads. Alyssa is fun-loving, easy to talk to and a talented member of our team.
COLORIST
Level 1, Single Process Color $55
Jackie has an elegant style and enjoys advising guests on their best beauty regime from head to toe. Jackie is an alumnus of the Aveda Institute Des Moines and is a Salon Spa W Advanced Education graduate. She is inspired by fashion, art and music. Jackie is also an award-winning dancer. When she’s not in the salon, she enjoys outdoor activities and being around animals. Did we mention how lovely her style is? Oh yes, we did!
SPA SPECIALIST
Sarah comes to Salon Spa W with several years of experience in the beauty industry. She is obsessed with glossy, shiny, perfect no-chip manicures and boy, are her clients noticing! Her attention to detail and beautiful results are in demand. Her infectious laugh and giving nature make her a wonderful service provider. Who knew a manicure could be so much fun! We love Sarah and think you will too!
SPA SPECIALIST
Abbey is a graduate of the Aveda Institute Des Moines. She was named Salon Spa W Spa Specialist of the year in 2011. She loves giving facials and performing body waxing services. She knows the ins and outs of the Aveda skincare line. She is able to customize services for each client to help achieve their desired end result. Her sense of humor will make you feel comfortable in all services, particularly in those pesky body-waxing procedures.