Beware of these good reviews and sweet talks. My hair stylist Lauren was very unprofessional and a horrible customer service representative. First, she cancelled by consultation appointment and I had to have the consultation the same day as my actual appointment. It was during my actual appointment where we determined that what I wanted to get done would take longer than the reserved amount of time. Lauren offered to do half the service that very day and the other half in a month. Why would I want to do that?! Why would I want to roam around with half my hair done? I was completely fine with rescheduling for a day where we had enough time to get this done. On my new appointment two days ago, Lauren informed me about my final service fee amount. It is during this time where Lauren informed me and my husband that she had just kept the deposit of $90 from my previous appointment because I didn’t get anything done and wasted her time, even though it was her decision to cancel initial the consultation. Had she not canceled the consultation, her three hours wouldn’t have been “wasted”. Lauren also claims that she had informed me about her decision to just keep the $90. However, this is an absolute lie and miss on her end because why would I waste $90 of mine just like that. Had I been actually informed, I would have gotten at least something done, so that my money wasn’t wasted. Lauren wasn’t ready to understand this at all. She showed absolutely zero remorse or understanding for this confusion and I had to end up paying $460 for an appointment where I was given an approximate estimate of $320 initially. It upset me because it isn’t about the money but rather about the principle. She completely refused to listen to my husband and I, completely refusing to cooperate in any way. I was just looking to pamper myself and have a nice relaxing fun experience. However, it turned out to be an absolute nightmare.

The salon itself is amazing, clean, stylist is on time and the hair cuts are great. I also love what this salon stands for and their philosophies. I found the salon because I wanted to bring my children to an inclusive salon that wouldn’t make them feel judged for their hair styles and this salon delivered on that. My kids felt safe and I felt they were accepted here. My concern however was how I was treated. I have been there 4 times with my children and once by myself. I explained to the stylist that my kids are shy, introverted and have social anxiety and don’t feel comfortable talking to people they don’t know. First appointment went well and the stylist was respectful that I stayed for the appointment. Second appointment came and I was met with comments like “oh your going to stay?” And I was also told a story how one of their other clients comes in with their parents credit card while their parent waits in the car. Ok, and? Clearly the stylist was trying to throw hints at me. For a salon who is all inclusive and accepting of others it made me feel really unwelcome and judged for caring about my kids needs. If a parent wants to stay with their kids no matter how old they are they should not be made to feel unwelcome. This was all very specific to one stylist and I do want to make a note that if I had a different stylist with a different experience I would have loved to make this our regular place for haircuts.

I started seeing Samantha last year because I was looking for a safe place to express myself more freely. First looking for a more androgynous style and eventually deciding to grow my hair as a part of my mtf transition. The gender neutral pricing is a huge perk. Samantha is amazing. And the rest of the stylists/staff are so friendly and welcoming. I love that showing up at my salon feels like showing up at a dear friend’s place. They even make me a coffee and give me chocolate. And bonus, they’re good at cutting and styling hair! I tell everyone about Samantha James Hair Design. And that they are 100% trans friendly. If you’re transgender and need a salon, this is your place. If you’re not trans but feel like supporting locally owned trans friendly environments, this is your place. Also check out their environmental and sustainable initiatives. With product refills, not putting dyes down the drain, or sending hair clippings to be up-cycled, they’re doing their part to reduce their environmental impact. Can’t say enough good about them and Samantha in particular.

Silent service! Charlene was lovely. I dread getting haircuts for a few reasons, so I haven't in a couple years and have ended up with pretty rough at-home cut hair, and it wasn't looking great. The option of a silent service took care of all my usual anxieties. I wasn't sure what to expect, but left feeling like I'd been at the spa, just super relaxed and content. She made me feel super comfy, was very accommodating, asked consent before touching me, (and before using some products, which was really nice), checked if I have allergies/scent sensitivities, and was generally very gentle and kind. Most importantly, she fixed my jagged/uneven hair - it's smooth and wearable now, I won't be hiding it in braids anymore. :) very happy about this place, thanks y'all & Charlene <3

I've been going to the and with Samantha as my hair stylist. I have always had positive experiences as a client, and I see the same with the other stylists and clients based on the interactions I've observed. This salon staff are all very knowledgeable, professional, and talented. It's always effortless speaking to Samantha when trying to decide with her on any changes, or maintenance I'd like. I first walked into the salon a a few years ago with hair so damaged, it would not grow well. With time, patience and some fairly consistent visits, my natural hair is now healthier, longer, stronger, than it has been in over 20 yrs! This is with regular root touch ups and highlights!

I’ve been a client of the salon for about 2 years and see Laura. She is wonderful; she books up quick, but is worth the wait! She gives the best cuts and takes the time to show you how to style your hair. She also gives a great head massage while shampooing. The salon is really inviting. They give you coffee/tea while you’re waiting or getting your hair done. The also sell products and you can buy the mini version to try out first rather than committing to buying something you may not end up liking. Really happy that I have found a stylist I trust! I’ve had some horrible hair experiences and the anxiety has now finally gone away when I get a cut!

Followed Adrienne here from her last salon. Adrienne is one of the best colorists I’ve ever found and trust me I’ve tried a fair number. Color is so tricky and can oftentimes be unpredictable especially with color matching my hair to my extensions but Adrienne is a pro. If I’m not satisfied she does everything she can to fix it and fits me in ASAP. She’s a perfectionist and we are always on the same page and she knows exactly what I’m looking for. Also the best installer of extensions. Look and feel natural with brick lay placement. Adrienne is a star and I would recommend her to everyone I know.

Wandered in here because it's close to my house. Just went for a wash and style, ended up getting the hair treatment. My hair was super soft afterwards. Worth the $15 extra. I think I got James? He was very personable and friendly. He asked me if this was for a special occasion. I said no. So he said to get the cheaper blow dry to save money. When I had asked another girl she said the difference was one they use a roll brush, the other a paddle. In the end he used both but still charged me for the cheaper one. It's nice when places aren't just about trying to up their revenue.

I had an amazing experience at Samantha James Hair Design! Charlene is wonderful! I hadn’t had my hair cut in a really long time and was nervous after too many bad experiences at other salons. But she took her time to listen to what I was looking for and educated me on how to best look after my hair in order to reach my hair goals! I absolutely love how my cut turned out and I’ve already booked in with her again for my next appointment! Thank you so much to Charlene and everyone there who were all so kind and helpful! I highly recommend this salon!!! Katie Z.

I've had my hair cut a few times by James now, and they've been the best cuts I've ever had. You can really tell the difference in knowledge, creativity, and attention to detail between someone who cuts hair as a job, or someone like James, who cuts hair because he's passionate about it. The interior design is very modern but welcoming. Whenever I go in I'm always offered coffee, tea, or water. The whole place seems very upscale, yet it cost me (men's cut and style) less than what I paid for at a generic mall salon. I can't see myself going anywhere else!

Great location, really trendy and nice space, friendly staff. Best of all, Samantha did my hair exactly how I wanted for a wedding and it held up perfectly all day! UPDATE: My husband and I have both switched to this hair shop for our regular hair cuts. We really appreciate the gender neutral pricing, refillable shampoo/conditioner, and silent appointment options. The way the staff seeks to find ways to be inclusive makes us feel very welcome and we are always happy with the results of our haircuts, too!

Awesome local hair salon. It doesn't feel like a chain with impersonal service. Everyone seems happy to be there and happy to be cutting hair. They are extremely careful using good Covid19 precautions for cleanliness. I'm very picky when it comes to hair salons, and I'm looking forward to my next visit. The price was very reasonable. I definitely recommend them for anyone local, and I would likely commute a good distance for this kind of experience getting my hair cut.

This salon is a breathe of fresh air. Offering gender neutral pricing which is something you rarely find anywhere, yuh was will find acceptance here. A special highlight to Laura Sharp who is amazing and funny and gives the best cuts. You wouldn’t expect to find this level of service in the cold that is Winnipeg but you will be pleasantly surprised here. To say this establishment is gay friendly is cutting it short, it’s more like your home away from home.

James at Samantha James has cut my hair for years. Aside from absolutely loving his haircuts, I have always been so impressed by SJHD--their professionalism, friendly staff, amazing services and beautiful salon environment. James also taught me the valuable lesson that an ionic hair dryer basically eliminates frizz. ;) During these strange Covid-19 times, you can feel at ease in the salon as they are doing everything possible to keep customers safe.

First time at the salon. I had my hair cut by Laura and it turned out fantastically. I showed her one picture of wispy bangs and she nailed it. She also managed to layer my thick hair in a way that is oh-so-light but avoids my natural tendency to get frizzy. Great overall customer service and very convenient online booking. Feeling good about their eco-friendly program too. I will definitely be back.

This was my first visit to Samantha James Hair Design and it definitely won't be the last! I saw Charlene for my color and trim. And I love my hair. It's always a little nerve wracking seeing someone new for your hair but she made it a pleasant and comfortable experience. Such a great atmosphere in that salon. A light and friendly place to be. Thank you for the great experience

Absolutely loved how my hair turned out and my stylist Laura was awesome! The atmosphere of the shop itself was great and they have the best coffee! Edit: I have been going here and seeing Laura for some time now and I always leave feeling amazing. I highly recommend this salon. They have done such a fantastic job even through the tough changes during the pandemic.

I am officially a loyal customer of Waleska at Samantha James Hair Design! The place is beautifully designed, the service is great, they give you coffee, tea etc... I had my hair cut with Waleska a few months ago and today I went for some colour! I LOVED IT! She understood exactly what I wanted and went above and beyond to make it perfect!

I was greeted with a warm welcome from the staff and my hairstylist Julia joynt! She did my hair to the tea of my request.I was offered a complimentary coffee right as soon as I sat in the chair which steered clear that this salon cares about their costumers. Once again thank you Julia I’ll be rebooking another visit !

If you have curly hair, you know how hard it is to find someone who really knows how to cut your hair. Well Laura is a pro! I've had my hair long and recently got it cut short. Laura is very knowledgeable and can give you lots of tips on how to care for your curls. Highly recommend her to anyone, she is Great!!

The only place I trust with my hair. Extremely professional, educated and experienced stylists. Amazing customer service. You want someone that is the best with blondes, James Ouellette has taken the cake. Ive never felt better about myself. Thank you samantha james hair salon!!

I have very curly hair and have been searching high and low for a hairdresser who could tame my bird's nest. One visit with Laura and my search is over!!! Very friendly staff, felt like I was visiting with friends. Will definitely be back. Keep up the good work guys!!!

I have been seeing James for years now, and followed him to this salon that he opened with Sam. It’s a beautiful boutique salon, everyone there is welcoming and friendly. James is the only person I trust to do my blonde highlights, he is amazing!!

I got my hair cut and coloured sometimes. This is my go to place. They listen and don't cut anymore then what you want for your hair. I have been to a lot of places, and have had my hair cut short. But not here. Love this place and the staff!!

Really beautiful salon with amazing staff! Samantha consistently does a gorgeous job on my hair and James gave me beautiful hair for my wedding day. I could not be happier with the service I’ve received from this salon. Lifetime client!

Very nice trendy salon (the best coffee ☕) Laura is an amazing stylist!! The stylists are always teaching eachother & learning new techniques. I love that they have gender neutral pricing & are enviro friendly, Everything is recycled.

I got my hair cut by Samantha and it was lovely! The salon is very inviting, everything is new and clean. It was a really nice, upscale experience that was also very reasonably priced. I will be. I will come back again for sure.

James is an incredible hairstylist. I’ve never had a better haircut! The salon is inclusive, eco friendly, and so welcoming. They also make a mean cup of coffee for clients. Thanks so much James and the rest of the team!

Terrific experience with James, I highly recommend Samantha James Hair Designs. Their talent, friendliness, and professionalism made my hair cut and balayage a terrific experience. My hair is sooo awesome. Thank you.

I'm very happy with my hair colour with Lauren! She took the time to figure out what I wanted and I really appreciate her mentioning budget in the consultation! She did a great job, I love my hair! :)

Staff is super friendly and the salon is nice and quaint so the conversation includes the entire salon! Great haircut experience and love my haircut too. Product selection is good too. Great job Sam.

With little direction Laura did an amazing job at finding a colour & style that was compatible with my hair extensions while restoring the healthiness of my hair! Definitely recommend this salon.

Amazing place, staff, work! I felt welcome from the moment I called for an appointment! Can only highly recommend this place and my next appointment is booked already ❤️ thank you!!!!! …

Samantha James is my go-to for hair cuts and colour... they nail it every single time! Bonus points for being an environmentally friendly salon with a great vibe. Highly recommend.

Excellent customer service. Clean and bright salon with windows. Very reasonable pricing. You can even request a silent service! I've seen Ellen a few times and she is lovely.

A modern day hair salon for the chic, hip and busy modern person. They are interesting people to talk to. They make you feel welcome too. I loved my haircut.

James was awesome! I got a haircut and i love it! I'm def getting my wedding hair done from here. Great location and very nice space :)

Had the best hair cut experience of my life! Laura was fantastic, so friendly and just amazing! I will forsure be going back to her!!

Had a great hair cut with Lauren! She was able to suggest a hair cut when I didn't have any pictures or anything. Will 100% go back

the only salon I trust in Winnipeg! always love the results, staff are super friendly. cute little place. easy to get to as well!

Very welcoming atmosphere. Laura does a great job dealing with my children as well as cutting their hair to what they want.

Had a cut with Lauren and my experience was amazing. She was very professional and I got exactly what I was looking for!

Stylists were very friendly and helpful. Loved my haircut and colour, and I'm looking forward to my next visit there

Great service. Appreciate the covid protocols. My son got a great haircut and will be coming back next time.

Great hairstylists....James is my stylist...1st hairdresser that I didn't have to go home and redo my hair

I went from longish hair to a pixie cut and Charlene nailed it! Really lovely place and people.

Excellent. I love it, very modern, and comfortable. Amazing talented and friendly stylists.

Great haircut, great service, and a nice relaxed atmosphere.

Always an amazing place to get your hair done!

Lovely place. Great team. Amazing haircut!

Amazing place thank you ❤️

Great cut. Great staff.

Always impeccable!

Laura is amazing.