Trusted Experts
ASH FORTIS
Owner/ Platform Artist
Ash Fortis Owner /Stylist since 2011
At 23 Ash decided to pursue her passion for the hair industry. She excelled quickly, graduated with honors and went on to spend time at a high end salon apprenticing. While apprenticing Ash further developed her passions and skills of hair dressing. Ash took to heart the importance of professionalism and being a team player which has led to a great deal of her success. Over the course of her career she’s never stopped learning and dedicating her time to creating and fostering one of a kind experiences for her guests, Ash has never shied away from a challenge and that driving force has made her at the top of her game when it comes to transforming clients. Ash’s passion for her craft has given her national and international publications, award nominations, and she is recognized as an innovative trailblazer in the hair industry. Ash Fortis went on to help build and co create Pulp Riot hair care from the ground up as an original co creator/owner. Pulp Riot sold to Loreal and Ash Fortis continues to educate for Pulp Riot, and work closely with the company and its team. Being at the hight of her career Ash knew that she wanted to build a salon & spa that would bring her dreams of providing the best hair and skin care to our community. Her dream of creating an inclusive space where our team brings out the beauty in one another and our guests is why the Xo Culture is like none other. At Xo Ash is proud to inspire and foster Team work,Creativity,Professionalism, Collaboration, Education and Value to our team & Guests. When Ash is not behind the chair she is leading our team and growing our stylists and business. Ash also spends time sharing her knowledge digitally, as well as in salons, and on stages across the world. She is a proud Author of Hair to dye for Published May 2020 and loves spending time with her friends, family, pets and her community of bad ass’s.
Catherine
@ccatherinee.g
Platform Artist/ Director of Education
Hello! Let me introduce myself!
I have been behind the chair for 10 years, am a platform level artist here at Xo, and a traveling regional educator for R+Co.
I'm Passionate about connecting with clients and stylists, sharing laughs, and building lasting relationships - all while creating beautiful hair.
I Specialize in natural colors that enhance my clients' features, but I also love the creative challenge of working with vivid tones on occasion!
Outside of the salon, I enjoy traveling, reading, playing video games, and having adventures with my husband.
I can't wait to connect with you and help bring your hair goals to life-lets make something beautiful together!
Amanda
@hairbyamandalyyn
Level 3 Stylist
Amanda is a passionate and dedicated hairstylist, wife, and proud mother of three boys—two of whom are twins! She’s deeply committed to empowering others, not only through her work in the beauty industry but also in her journey to better understand and support mental health. Currently pursuing a degree in psychology, Amanda is determined to use her education to help others build confidence, cultivate self-love, and foster emotional well-being.
Her career as a stylist is built on the belief that beauty goes beyond the surface, and she strives to make every client feel valued, confident, and beautiful both inside and out. As a busy mom juggling family life, school, and a career, Amanda is an inspiration to those around her—showing that with passion and perseverance, it’s possible to pursue dreams while creating a nurturing home environment.
Amanda is excited to continue blending her expertise in beauty with her growing knowledge of mental health, helping others feel empowered, valued, and ready to take on the world.
Nicole
@nicolejhair
Level 2 Stylist
I'm Nicole, a Florida-born hairstylist with a passion for transformations. Whether you're looking for a subtle refresh or a full-on makeover, I'm here to help you unlock your unique style. I am a fabulous extensionista with a passion for the craft!
When I'm not behind the chair, you can find me experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen (I'm a total foodie at heart!) or curled up with a good book. My love for creativity, self-expression, and making people feel confident and beautiful drives everything I do.
Amara
@amarahairartistry
Level 2 Stylist
Hey hey! My name is Amara and I'm a Level 2 hairstylist with 8 years of experience at XO Hair Lab. I specialize in balayage, vivid color, layered haircuts, and blowouts. As an inclusive hair artist, I'm dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming space for everyone who sits in my chair. Being a neurodivergent stylist, I bring a unique perspective and creativity to my craft.
When I'm not at the salon, you'll find me baking sourdough bread and sweet treats, thrifting for hidden gems, or spending time with my fiancé and our three cats. I also have a passion for curating my home and love to dabble in interior design, always looking for ways to make spaces feel warm and inviting.
Special
@specialcreates
Level 2 Stylist
Vibrant and thoughtful, I'm deeply passionate about unleashing creativity, embracing personal style, nurturing education, and ensuring the happiness of our furry friends. I love bringing hair to life with lightening services to create natural and vivid color looks. From precise clipper cuts to edgy razor cuts, I specialize in tailoring hairstyles to enhance each person's unique essence.
When she's not transforming hair into works or art, she can be found living her best cat-mom life in her cozy, anime-filled haven. Equal parts stylist and chill queen, she's mastered the art of the perfect nap-and the perfect hair flip. Ready for hair magic? She's your girl!
Callie
@dankofc
Level 2 Stylist
My name is Callie, just a small town girl from Akron, IA. My husband Aaron and I have been married for 18 years with three children.
I always dreamed about being a wife and mother, but still have a career, and I've been able to do just that!
I've been doing hair for 13 years and several years as an independent stylist in South Carolina, before moving to VA.
I don't "specialize" in anything...but I love lived in color, blonding, and everyday styling...because I am always learning to be a master of my craft!
Krista
@kristababyhair
Level 2 Stylist
From the mountains of West Virginia to the sandy shores of Virginia Beach, this blonde bombshell found her passion for all things beauty. With over a decade of experience as a hairstylist, her talents turn heads wherever she goes. When she's not whipping up gorgeous looks in the salon, you can find her soaking up the sun, hitting the gym, exploring the great outdoors, and cuddling her adorable puppies. Her flair for fashion and fitness helps her remain a mane attraction. XO
Lauren
@sirensandshears
Level 2 stylist
Lauren is about to take on her biggest project yet-becoming a mom! With her maternity leave approaching, Lauren is trading in her scissors for snuggles as she prepares to welcome her little one. While she'll miss her time behind the chair, she can't wait to start this new chapter!
Carmela
@mellosmagicalhair
Level 1 Stylist/Leadership
Carmela is a Level One Stylist at XO Hair Lab, where she has been part of the team since 2020. She began her journey while attending the Rudy & Kelly Academy and has been licensed and working behind the chair since 2022. Passionate about her craft, she focuses on creating natural balayages, creative color, and long layered haircuts.
Outside of the salon, Carmela has a deep love for music, video games, and tending to her plants. She enjoys cooking, baking, watching anime and true crime, and spending quality time with her friends and family. Dedicated to creativity both in and out of the salon, she brings enthusiasm and care to everything she does.
Alexa
@_davidson_alexa
Level 1 Stylist/Leadership
Alexa has been an integral part of our salon family for the past two years. Starting as an assistant and front desk team member, Alexa quickly demonstrated a passion for the beauty industry and transitioned into her role as a stylist. Her commitment to growth is unmatched-she eagerly pursues every educational opportunity available and thrives under the guidance of her salon mentors.
She is known for her bubbly personality and warm demeanor, Alexa has a knack for making clients feel welcomed and cared for. In her downtime, she channels her creativity into crafting, enjoys spending time with her husband, and unwinds with her favorite Nintendo Switch games. Whether she's engaging in meaningful conversations or enjoying a quiet moment, Alexa brings genuine kindness and enthusiasm to everything she does.
Christina
@christinawaltonstudios
Level 1 Stylist
Christina is a passionate hairstylist and makeup artist who is dedicated to building strong connections with her clients while perfecting her craft. As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, she brings dedication, precision, and attention to detail to her work.
Balancing her love for beauty with the joy of raising four daughters, she understands the importance of feeling your best. Her goal is to provide personalized, attentive service that leaves every client feeling confident and cared for.
Sam
@wild.unruly.hair
Assistant
Meet Samantha—a hairstylist with a passion for creativity and a talent for making people feel confident and beautiful. As a proud US Navy veteran and mom, she brings discipline, patience, and care into everything she does, whether crafting bold new styles or creating subtle, refreshing looks.
Samantha is outgoing, energetic, and thrives on connecting with others, sharing her love for self-expression through hair. As a proud member of the queer community, she is dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming space for every client. Whether you prefer a relaxing silent appointment or lively conversation, Samantha ensures you leave her chair feeling refreshed, confident, and with a style that truly matches your personality.
Samantha believes everyone deserves to feel their best every day and is excited to create something amazing with you!
Tyra
@hair.bytyraa
Assistant
I graduated high school a year early in 2023 and currently a college student. I have a passion for making others feel beautiful. Working at Xo Hair Lab I have had the opportunity to learn and grow. Growing up on my family’s farm, I developed a love for the outdoors and a strong work ethic that drives my career today. As I begin my journey in the beauty industry, I draw inspiration from my roots and the simple joys of farm life, bringing authenticity and care.
Katie
@katiearnold.hair
Assistant
Hi, I'm Katie!
I'm currently a cosmetology student, with plans to obtain my license in May 2025. Since November 2024, I've had the incredible opportunity to work as an assistant at Xo Hair Lab. During my time here, I've learned so many new techniques and skills from the amazing stylists at this salon. They have been fantastic mentors, and I'm excited to continue growing in my craft in such a supportive environment. I can't wait to bring my passion for beauty and creativity to our wonderful clients!
Erin
Front Desk
Erin is easy-going and loves laughing and making others laugh along with her.
She spends her free time reading, as well as following artistic pursuits including sewing, cross stitching, painting, miniatures and more.
Erin has lived all over the country, but has lived in Virginia for the last ten years with her husband, their child, and their two cats and two dogs.