Vardan Babelyan,
Stylist/Co-owner
After living in Los Angeles CA for five years, I came to Chicago in the spring of 2012, where I worked 5 years as a senior stylist in an Aveda salon. I was born and raised in Armenia and since I was a teenager I realized I had a passion for hairdressing.
After receiving my diploma as a stylist I continued my education in Germany, Spain, Russia, Paris, Asia, and now in the USA. Working with different cultures has helped me understand a variety of hair types and all things fashion.
I love to learn new trends but excel at classic styles too. As a hairstylist, I enjoy working with bridal parties. It thrills me to make their special day even more special with my creative and extraordinary up-do.
My special techniques in haircutting and styling allow me to make my clients feel special every day. My goal is for my guests to experience the highest level of customer service.
I love to paint, travel, and learn about history. These experiences bring out creativity in my personal and professional life.
Alana Snowden
Master Stylist
Alana brings over twenty years of dedicated experience to the professional haircare industry, having served as the director of education for top haircare companies. Her expertise spans precision cutting, honed through training in the renowned Vidal Sassoon technique, as well as color mastery acquired during her tenure as a colorist for Goldwell, USA.
Recognized for her proficiency as a texture specialist, Alana’s work has graced editorial and campaign shoots. Among her notable achievements are her journeys to the French Caribbean, Bermuda, Grenada, Bahamas, and Jamaica, where she imparted her expertise in cutting and coloring textured hair to hairstylists. Outside of her craft, Alana finds solace in traveling, meditation, literature, and swimming. Excited to join Salon Aken, she is committed to providing each guest with a highly personalized salon experience.
