The Rare Bird

Sam has been taking care of my curly locks since 2023. I’ve never felt so comfortable or confident in a stylist’s ability to make me feel welcome and cut and style my hair to perfection. I’m a pretty shy person, but Sam has me chattering away as soon as I walk through the door. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my curls. I also adore The Rare Bird’s new home as of this summer. Such a beautiful, thoughtful, and warm space. I wish I could just spend the day there hanging out! Their craft nights are also a hit. It’s so nice to meet other folks who adore Sam and The Rare Bird as much as I do. Thank you, Sam! edit to say that I drive from dc to see her! I would drive a million miles more!

I had the pleasure of working with Sam and she was wonderful! I’m very particular/ sensitive about my hair and she heard my ideas and then created a mood board for my appointment, so i could visually see everything. It was perfect! She heard every request and made my dream hair come true. She also did it in a way that I didn’t need constant upkeep (I personally am terrible about that). Very pleased and will be going back! My friend sees Eris and says amazing things about her work and it’s good to know I can see either stylist if one is booked.

I have been seeing Sam for a few years (?!) now and aside from a great hair stylist, she is the best person. I always feel better leaving than I do entering, and that has nothing to do with the great hair cut she gives me! We just giggle and it is always a good time. I have curls that I’ve never known how to style and when I first went to see her, she finally help me hone my hairstyle and now I always love keeping my hair curly. Do yourself a favor and go see her (:

I’ve been seeing Sam at The Rare Bird for more years than I can count now. She is an artist with my curls, and a balm to my soul. I joke that spending an hour in her chair is an alternative form of therapy, but it’s true. She deeply cares about the world *and* you as an individual. Her magic makes you look like a million bucks and feel beautiful and special and seen. Go see Sam. She’s worth every penny.

Sam is truly an artist. She is also a great listener and wants you to walk out happy. If you've had enough of coloring/styling methods that deplete your hair, then rest assured - you'll be in great hands with Sam. She will be gentle with your hair. The Rare Bird is a special salon that will offer you superior service, in a very relaxed environment. This was my first visit and it won't be my last. I instantly connected with Sam and know that after a year of searching, I finally found my place. I came in for a cut and wanted a little "spruce up." That's what I got. My hair has more movement, style and looks great. It's me... but better. You will love the attention to detail that Sam will provide. And, she is so personable and will make you feel welcomed and cared for from the start. The salon is right in the heart of Old Town, with plenty of street parking.

Visits to Rare Bird always feel like a treat. That’s because they really get to know me, and have worked hard to create a calm and comfortable space. The haircut is always great and the products they carry make my hair really soft and shiny. Sam really knows what she’s doing.

I had an amazing experience at The Rare Bird with Sam. I came in ready for a big change, 12 inches off to donate, and wasn’t quite sure what style to go for next. Sam took the time to chat with me, offered her expert opinion, and made me feel totally confident in the decision. Sam styled my thick, slightly wavy hair into a long bob that suits me perfectly. The cut feels fresh, light, and incredibly easy to manage. It was exactly what I didn’t know I needed! I've received so many compliments, and a few people even said the style looked so natural on me, they didn’t realize I’d made such a big change. Sam worked with such ease and precision; it’s clear she truly understands her craft and takes the time to listen and tailor each cut to her client’s needs. Beyond her skills, Sam is just a wonderful human. She's friendly, warm, quirky in the best way, and genuinely empathetic. The whole experience felt more like catching up with a good friend than just getting a haircut. The Rare Bird is a warm and inviting space, thoughtfully designed by Sam with carefully curated furniture and decor. You can feel the intention behind every detail. Her new salon is not only beautiful, but also a reflection of her dedication and the courage it takes to keep growing professionally. I highly recommend booking with Sam if you’re looking for an uplifting and personalized salon experience. She’s in high demand, so if you can’t get an appointment with her, you’ll still be in great hands. She has hand-picked a growing team of incredibly talented stylists who all share The Rare Bird’s commitment to exceptional service and care.

I just want to say a big thank you for the amazing experience! You were so attentive and really understood what I wanted — it felt like you read my mind. The French bob you gave me is absolutely perfect; exactly how I imagined it, no surprises, just spot-on. I’ve never had a salon experience quite like this before — so professional, yet so warm and personal. Thank you again for your care and talent, I’m so happy with my new haircut!

Love love love coming here! I love that Sam will always provide the short term and long term hair routines to maintain your new hair for as long as it can be and all her product recommendations are on point. She really cares about hair and will take the time to make sure you're happy at the end!