Finding a hairdresser you like, no, love and trust, is like having to go find a new best friend. Someone you can feel comfortable around, someone who puts up with your worst days and someone who can work little miracles that not only you see, but others start noticing about you. That's the Samuel-Rey Salon on Anderson Lane in Austin. Rey is wonderful and welcomes everyone by name, remembers the names of your dogs or cats... or kids... gives suggestions if you need a quick gift for a friend/party/shower/birthday you name it. Will beep you on your phone if he goes to sales and notices they have a collection he remembers you collect. He suggests, wraps, gives a shoulder, shows you pics of his little loves... I think there are 6 of them now... and always remembers customers are more than just that, they're friends. Sammy, now he's the hidden gem that is a wonder of wonders. He can take a stack of straw, condition, cut, work his magic and you walk out and think, "wow, why didn't I come here years ago?" He has great suggestions on your type of hair, the way you wear it, will work around your schedule [I know he works around my crazy life] and is so wonderful to talk to. He's funny, caring, smart, fantastic at cutting wedges, remembers everything about you and makes you feel you're the only client he has. Who doesn't want that kind of treatment and not pay a fortune. Their prices are very reasonable, but their wonderful atmoshere makes you want to come back to see what they got at market this time. [Man, I want to be a fly on the wall when they go to market!] If there's ever a problem, they fix it, but haven't had one of those yet...or know of anyone who has... so since they're centrally located, it would be really sad if you never experience the ambience of this salon or the other stylists. Once you go and he does your hair and you pick up that little "something", you'll wonder why you went anywhere else. I give both Sammy and Rey a 5 Star Thumbs Up as they each have their own areas and they are both excellent at what they do. So hey guys, keep it up... you're what we need and can't wait to come back to! read more

After getting my hair butchered from a Toni and Guy salon I was in desperate need of a hair solution. I won't bore you with how I ended up at Samuel-Rey Salon but thank goodness I did. Michelle was the first stylist to correct the hack job. I explained what had happened (I had below the shoulder wavy/curly hair length-and loved the length-told T&G lady just to get it off my back because of the sweltering heat this past summer and trusted her with my long locks, when I walked out of the salon with stick straight hair and off my back I was excited about my new style. Until I washed it a couple days later...not only did my hair not want to curl (which she said the way she was cutting it was going to make it easier to curl) it looked like some sort of Darth Vader helmet). Michelle cut it so that it would grow out in a more even fashion...said that I was going to have to be patient that this was not going to fix itself in a couple months, she gave me her phone number so I could call her directly if I had any concerns-awesome! I left the salon with my hair the way I would usually wear it, little product and left to curl on its own. And guess what, when I washed and styled it on my own it looked the exact same as it did in the salon! When I returned for my trim, Michelle wasn't available and I wanted color, so she referred me to Aaron. This is where I would gush about how amazing he is, and the attention to detail he takes in everything, but I hate reading long yelp reviews. I've gotten more compliments on my hair and color from other stylists and strangers since I started coming to this salon, both Michelle and Aaron are very talented and come highly recommended. Thank you always making me feel and look amazing! You guys rock :) read more

I grew up in Hollywood, California and was quite spoiled as a consumer by the immeasurable diverse choices we had. I have VERY VERY fine limp THIN hair, very difficult to cut/style. In my lifetime, even with the great resources I had, no one, anywhere, ever, successfully cut my hair 3 times........ in a row, I don't know what it was, they got to confident, didn't pay attention, but every single 3rd haircut was a disaster, and when you have VERY VERY fine limp THIN hair cut wrong you're a mess until it grows out. I am a non practicing Cosmetologists which has saved me because I can do my own hair, but not with out pain and anguish, yes, waiting for it to grow out!! Then, 10 years ago I found Sammy, no kidding he's like a goldmine, one that keeps giving and giving and.... Sammy is an artist, he is truly amazing, he has such a gift, I never new I could have different looks, not with my hair, and let me tell you, man, women, or child I have seen him create such fabulous styles, his work is breathtaking!! Just when you think it couldn't get any better then to have found Sammy, the lifesaving creator of Fabulosity, you find Ray who creates a warm, friendly, delightfully refreshing atmosphere, and when you leave this shop you leave little bit richer and a great deal happier. Then there's the front of the shop, where Ray provides you with the most unique, extraordinary, home décor, one of kind unique gift ideas, jewelry, pictures and paintings from local artists, this is your one stop shopping for those gifts you need for those people that have everything.......... Ray has it, even children's items, you'll find it ALL at Samuel-Rey's !!! read more

For years I had gone to trendy, upscale salons looking for someone to cut, color, and style my hair the way I wanted only to be told I had 'fine, limp hair'. I found Sammy about 8 years ago and have not turned back. Hair is an art to him and he makes you feel like a masterpiece! He has done everything short of perm my hair (had enough of those in the 90's)! Highlights, low lights, two toned - red, black, blond, brown, pink. . . and my hair is still healthy. He even did extensions for my sisters wedding (platinum blond in the front) and my mother had NO idea it was fake. I am somewhat lazy when it comes to getting ready for my day . . . nothing over 30 minutes total. He taught me how to work with my hair type and what cuts fit my life and face best. From long and classy to short and funky, I have never been disappointed. The only other stylists to touch my hair have been those who work under Sammy. With such a great teacher, the other stylists at Samuel-Rey mimic his amazing abilities. They do not push products but suggest tools and teach you how to create the same hairstyle on your own. Aside from making you look and feel fabulous, they have created a unique concept of home decor, gift ideas, handmade jewelry and pictures/paintings from local artists in the front of the shop while you wait to be pampered. It's fun, friendly, eclectic, unique and leaves you feeling sassy~ Everything a hotspot in Austin should be!!! read more

Where or where to start! Let me just say that there have been times on trips to other salons that I wish I was Dorothy and could click my heels together three times and be home.. Not so at Samuel-Rey's. I called there and spoke with a wonderful young lady named Michelle. She totally got me - which believe me is hard to do. I walked in and EVERYONE wanted to see me b/4 and after. Well I am going to ask Michelle to post a pic if she can. I changed 180 degrees and I am so excited about my new and improved look I just can't thank her or the rest of the "gang" there enough. You are only a stranger there for about 5 minutes and then you are family or better yet friends. They all treat you like you are the most important person they know and cannot do enought to make sure your time spent with them is enjoyable. If you don't need your hair done stop in anyway there are always new things to look at and find great gifts. I actually did a lot of my Christmas shopping there in 08. So I just want to say a big THANK - YOU to Sammy and Rey for the great job they have done putting the right people together in their plan to have Austin have "beautiful" people walking around. Thanks everyone. "T" xo read more

As a guy, I'm always hesitant to try new places to get my hair cut. But after sitting in rush hour traffic for a few months trying to get to my old place, I decided it was time to find somewhere closer. Based on what I read on Yelp, I decided to try out Samuel-Rey. And I must say, thanks! This place was great. Called ahead to schedule an appointment, they fit me in that same day with Michelle. I've been thinking about changing my haircut for a while, but haven't been able to decide on anything. Michelle sat me down, answered all of my questions, even got one of the hair design books from the front and went through some options based on what would look good on me. After deciding on a plan, Michelle gave me a great haircut, and great conversation! She takes her time and does it right, overall she spent about 50 minutes working with me. One of the longest, but definitely one of the best haircuts I've ever had. It's nice to see guys can get great haircuts too, and at $25, a reasonable price for such attention to detail. I'll definitely be back. read more

Samuel-Rey Salon is a cut above the rest. If your hair and attitude need a lift go see Samuel, as he's hair God! Before, I met him I never let anyone color or get creative with my hair. Since meeting him, his confidence and encouragement has given me the guts to move through several shades of colors and cuts. He's a natural with the scissors and his eye for color choice and attention to detail is impeccable. You'll never want to visit another salon. Samuel-Rey takes hair couture to a whole new level. Once you walk through the doors of this eclectic and funky salon, you'll want to stay and peruse the fabulous home findings, handmade jewelry, and many other secret treasures. If you need help finding a gift for that special someone - talk to Rey. His uncanny ability to help you make the right selection is amazing . I've been told I've got a great gift at giving presents - little do people know my best kept secret, oops I guess my secret is out. Make an appointment today - you will not be disappointed. read more

I have been going to Samuel-Ray Salon for 14 months now. Sammie is a hair magician. He is a whiz with all lengths and textures. He pulls a Houdini with gray roots--they disappear! He works well with all ages, male and female. My niece has her hair done by Michelle, who has mastered reading the mind and meeting the hair needs of juvenile females! She is also very good with adults, but she has a special talent for working with teens. My very picky teenage nephew has quit the JC Penneys scene and goes to Aaron. My mom goes to Sammie too. If 3/4 of my family goes to this salon, you know they have to be good at what they do. They also keep their clients entertained and comfortable. Not to mention the ambience, shopping opportunities(crafts, art, candles, jewelry, knick knacks, wall hangings, mosaics, charms, hair products, seasonal items, etc) music, love of pets (especilly dogs). Easy location, lots of parking. Very friendly people, who are happy to work with you to make your hair wishes come true! read more

I moved from Ohio back in 2000. I was having a hard time finding someone who would cut my hair the way I was use to. I was pretty spoiled since my friend was the one who did my hair for 10 yrs. She even had a special blend of color for my hair. When I moved here I went through soooo many stylists. My friend Vivian kept telling me to try her stylist Sammy. I was like, yea ok..... Well, I finally gave in a few years ago and OMG!!! What a miracle worker Sammy is. I have naturally curly hair and no one ever wants to cut it the way the curls go, but against the curls. Thank goodness my friend kept after me to give Sammy a chance. I love both Sammy and Rey....what loving caring friends they have become. Sammy works miracles on my hair and Rey works miracles on my spirit and senses with all the wonderful blend of rustic and class he has. Cudos to both and anyone who is in need a hair salvation, please please make an appointment at Samuel-Rey. You will not regret or forget....... read more

Samuel-Rey Salon not only has the most welcoming attitudes, but they genuinely love their clientele and are so upbeat and kind. I have been going to see them for years now, and each time I always take my daughter and they always welcome her. It is not everyday you find a place that you feel comfortable going to color, cut and highlight your hair, where they know exactly want you want before you can even tell them. They are all so talented, well versed in the new trends and old, and very skilled individuals. I like the feeling I get when I walk in the door and the feeling of true teamwork that is displayed. My daughter and I love going by just to say hello because of the kindness they have shown us and just how cool and laid back they are. They come highly recommended so go check them out, they take appointments and they also take walk-ins, and not sure who to ask for, well you have a great selection cause they are ALL WONDERFUL...... read more

Sammy has been working his magic on my hair since 1997 (once upon another salon ago)! I love him. Highlights & a fresh trendy cut are my requests, and my dear Sammy follows through...he's fabulous! I'm a little OCDish and bossy when it comes to my hair, and he lets me...I love that, too. His work speaks for itself because I am speaking his name atleast once a week to an inquiring stranger along with a scribbled paper & his name (or a business card if I'm on the ball). If I listed all in my world who go to Sammy for trims or big hair changes you simply would stop reading (waaay too many names!). You are in good hands. And I wouldn't be doing it justice if I didn't mention the fun little shop of findings you encounter when you walk in the door. Rey has done quite a remarkable job of filling it full of things to ooh and ahh over (and buy of course)! I say make an appointment....you won't regret it. read more

Sammy has been doing my hair now for about 15 years, he does my husband & daughter as well, my daughter will not let any one else do her hair, she has beautiful thick dark curly Mexican Indian hair and Sammie has been doing her hair since she was a baby until recently she and myself have let Aaron do our hair, he is also really good. I need to mention that we drive 40 miles one way to Samuel-Reys when we get our hair done, My husband has tried several barbers but no one seems to be able to control his hair the way he wants it, like Sammy does, my husband is a business man and its all about time & money, so you see why i had to mention we drive 40 miles to get our hair done, it seems ridiculous but when you find someone that cares about you and your hair and you get what you pay for distance doesn't seem to matter. I recommend Sammy and his shop every time. read more

This little North Austin secret is so groovy! Tucked in-between a children's resale shop and a furniture store, Samuel-Rey Salon is easy to miss. But you shouldn't. You should go in and give yourself a big treat. I've seen every kinda guy and gal in the chairs there and they all look happy. When they see the results they do that cool little hair flip/hair fluff/finger comb and there's that tiny grin that says "I am so pleased and don't I look good!" They don't push product and only recommend what you ask about. Great listeners, they give you the cut you ask for and have a great time with you while they do it. If you are into wild colors or just need a trim or a freshening up, Samuel-Rey's pros are just what you need to feel like the world just got better. read more

All the way to Austin!! I have known Aaron for years, and he is so great at what he does, I traveled all the way from El Paso to Austin, just to have him do my hair. He is the only person I trust to say, "Make me look good," and he can do it without me giving my input every five seconds. I am so happy Aaron found this great salon. The atmosphere is not something you expect from a salon. Very friendly, they treat everyone like close personal friends, even if it is your first visit. The rustic decor is awesome, too. Cozy and relaxing. Makes you feel like you have a pro go to your house to do your hair, without all the mess. Pros: Very clean, friendly and professional. Cons: Wish they were in El Paso, so I could go every week =-( read more

I can honestly say that I love walking into this salon. It always brings a smile to my face. The staff is very welcoming and charming and I love there home decor! I would have never known such a great place exisited if it weren't for my amazing stylist Aaron. Trust me ladies and gents, if you are in need of a great hair cut Aaron is your man! I am very picky about my hair and have only let about 3 people touch my hair over the past 8 yrs. Aaron already has me to a comfortable point where he turns me away from the mirror and tricks me into not being paranoid, ha ha. I received many compliments on my hair and have referred plenty of friends to him! What can I say he is awesome at what he does.....true talent! Thanks Aaron! read more

Samuel Rey Salon is worth experiencing over and over again! I find that its a great place shop, catch up on gossip and get beautified inside and out. The staff is there to attend to your every need, be it listening to your hair needs/concerns or offering decor advice. My favorite stylist is Aaron! He listens to what you want and makes sure you walk out of there looking like a million bucks. There's a reason he's the first male stylist I've trusted in years! You don't need your hair done, then stop by the decor shop and you'll find interesting and original home decor. You might find the perfect accent piece to set off your style or reasons to redo your decor, like I did! read more

As many know, it is truly difficult to find a hairstylist you trust completely. I have found that with Aaron. I have been going to see him for over a year, and he has never disappointed me. He makes great suggestions and the end product always turns out better than I had imagined. Aaron takes his time and makes sure the hairstyle is done right. I have gone to him for low-lights and they turned out amazing. This last time, he gave me a different style of cut and I have gotten nothing but compliments. Someone even told me that on a scale from 1 to 10, my hair was a 15!!! That's because of Aaron. Thank you Samuel Rey! I love this salon. read more

I stumbled upon Samuel-Rey Salon over a year ago and it was the best thing that happened to my hair!! They are super friendly and welcoming the minute you walk in the door. I have had more compliments on my hair since finding Sammy than I have in my life! He is very creative and exudes confidence that will not be found anywhere else. I am always more than satisfied with my cut and color each time I visit. The salon decor is peaceful and relaxing. There are some great things to purchase to add a little spice to your home or office. The entire staff make you want to visit for more than just hair. You will not be sorry you visited!! read more

This has been by far the best experience. The staff was welcoming and fun. My last stylist had moved and I happened to find Samuel-Reys. When I got there I was greeted by Rey him self, who is very charming. Yolanda was the stylist who saw me. During our consultation she listened to everything I wanted. At no point did I feel rushed. She offered me some excellent feedback on what I could do to update my look. I was amazed at the "miracle" she worked on me. I have never received so many compliments on my hair. I am happy to say, I have found my new Home Away From Home! read more