James is a truly gifted artist who deeply understands creative collaboration and the importance of listening and communicating throughout the process. Eleven stars! read more

I hate to leave this review but I can't help it, it's bothering me. I came in this week for a trim of some dead ends, requested about three inches off of my hair. My hair was probably to the lower middle of my back and down past my chest. With the cut I wanted my hair should've stopped right at the bottom of my chest. The girl cutting my hair was very nice but she cut around 5-6 inches off and now my hair is around the top of my chest and collarbone. I love my long hair and I am very sad so have short hair like this for the first time in probably 6-7 years at least. Also, this may be my problem but I do get dandruff and when the lady washed my hair she did not scrub my scalp at all, just rubbed soap on my hair then rinsed it off. So I left the salon with short blow dried hair and a layer of dandruff on my scalp after being washed. Would not recommend. read more

James is so excellent at what he does and lovely to be around. Expensive haircut but worth it for the consistently great results. I know if I go there, I will walk away very pleased if James is holding the shears. Best salon in town, imo. read more

This is the coolest places in Tulsa to get your hair done. Aside from an amazing location downtown, beautiful decor inside and the most comfortable wash station Ive ever been to, the stylists are incredibly knowledgeable to the point that most people I know that go there allow the stylists to do whatever they want to their hair and love it from cuts to color to styling, etc. Anyone who wants a unique hair experience with the most rad stylists ever in a great location should look into The First Ward!!! read more

Pros: moved here in April 2014 from a larger city. Fly all over the country monthly so I figured I would get hair done at out of town salons. Never happened! When I'm traveling, too busy to sit in salon chair. Didn't know who to trust with my hair in Tulsa and so I just did nothing with it for about 8 months until I couldn't take it anymore. Decided to yelp it and discovered this gem. Krystle was amazingly patient; especially since I flew in to building (running late for appointment) and was talking a mile a minute about going pink. We discussed options and settled on a plan to transition gradually so I wouldn't totally damage my hair going brunette to pink. Got a trim while I was at it. Needed it. Cute space. Love the history/story about the location. Complimentary drinks. Special conditioning treatment cause I checked in with yelp. Accepts credit cards. Cons: I don't know the area so it was difficult to find. Thankfully other Yelpers posted pictures of the very distinct blue front door and I was able to ID salon based on that. Street parking which sucks because I'm not the best parallel Parker. read more

Simply put, The First Ward is one of the core reasons I love Tulsa. The ease of scheduling an appointment: When you call in, a lovely woman named Cheyenne will assist you in the most professional way to find a time that works best for you. She's patient and understanding of crazy schedules. The people: Krystal, James & Jessica are genuinely kind, understanding and lovable people. The way they work as a team constantly is something I so admire. This powerhouse of people creates an atmosphere that you just want to be in and glean from their creativity - even if you don't have a hair appointment. The Space: Intentionally unique and special. When you go, ask them about how it came to be. Clean lines and natural light create a comfortable space after you go through the blue door and venture upstairs. Krystal has been doing my hair for just over a year now; let me tell you more about her. Her background in hair is quite impressive as she's studied the art intensively and has prestigious accolades and accomplishments. But, she'll never tell you unless you dig - she's humble and has one of the most kind and gentle spirits you'll find. I'm not good at articulating styling or the kind of color I envision for my hair. Krystal has a 6th sense and has re-created my hair countless times just the way I imagined. From pink to blue to dark blonde to bright blonde and all kinds of layered cuts: she just gets it. The time and quality she puts into her craft is mind-blowing. Thank you, The First Ward for existing and inspiring me to dig deeper into who I want to be and be able to creatively express it! read more

See all

Dont. Just dont. I had my hair done by Krystal, who was very sweet throughtout my appointment. I brought in a picture of a girl who had tons of highlights and brown streaks. I told her that I wanted that throughout my already lightened hair. Yes, she said we couldn't get my highlights to white blonde, which I already knew, but she did say that we could get them to a lighter shade. What I ended up with has very little difference from the overall yellow color with dark roots that I came into the salon with. I wanted the chunky brown streaks throughout my hair, but don't have any, just muddy, blended-together color. My blonde is not any lighter at all. I also wanted shorter layers, but again, aside from an end-length difference, it doesn't look like my hair was cut. I am very disappointed . I tipped $44 because in the terrible spotlight of their temporary location, and at night, it was hard to see exactly what the color was like. When I got home, my boyfriend did not even believe I had my hair done, and after looking in our bathroom mirror, I could tell he was right. The picture I brought in was very different from what I originally had. When we asked for a refund, something I've never asked of a hair stylist before, Krystal first said she would not give us one and tried arguing, saying that she was "very candid about how she could not make my hair look like the picture ", which is just not true. Like I said before, she only said we couldn't lighten the blonde parts to a white blonde like the picture. She said everything else was do-able. She also tried to say that it didnt turn out right because my hair had color on the roots. What??? That doesnt explain anything. I wanted brown streaks to break up the blonde on my head- my roots would have no bearing on that whatsoever. Finally, she agreed to refund $120 out of the $220 I gave her ( the $220 does not include the $44 tip), insisting that the haircut was $100, which I cannot even begin to understand. On the website, it states haircuts range from $60-$100 and I find it hard to believe I should've been charged the top tier when the only difference in my cut is an inch off the length. I will never go back to this place. Had she told me she couldn't do the brown streaks or lighten my hair at all, I would've left, having been burned by hair stylists before. After we asked for our money back, she started to say that I have "unreasonable expectations", yet she didnt say that during the appointment. I am shocked at the glowing reviews I read on here about her. I was very excited to have found this place, but now I wish I never had. I posted a collage with pictures of what I went in with, what I left with and what I wanted, but its not showing up yet. I guess I have to record coversations I have with hair stylists from now on. To top it off, James, the owner of this "salon" didnt seem to care about what happened and said he "just owns the company, and that the stylists just rent from him", which is contradictory to the description of their salon-family described on their website. James didnt want any part of the conversation at all. I am appalled by his behavior, even more than I am by hers. My advice is to save yourself the disappointment and headache and take your money elsewhere. read more

The First Ward - So disappointed. - Hair Salons Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

Stop what you're doing right now and go see Mark. Seriously. Book. An. Appointment. I was a client of Mark's for the 4 years I lived in Austin. He's funny, kind, engaging, and one hell of a stylist. I can't say enough about how he listened to what I wanted (Kate Walsh red for your wedding? No problem!) fixed up years of bad home color jobs, and made me feel like a million bucks. Probably a billion bucks, actually. You better bet your ass many of his Austin clients are working trips to Tulsa into our schedules/budgets/lives. He'd be worth it. You're welcome, Tulsa. Your gain is our loss. read more

The First Ward - Fresh from a cut from Mark. Perfection! - Hair Salons Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

I called to make an appointment and the person taking the call was friendly and booked me at a convenient time (after 6pm) with James. Her directions with the aid of my gps made The First Ward easy to find....and conveniently close to the Blue Dome district. The place was inviting...I was welcomed in and my boyfriend was made to feel comfortable while he waited, drinks were offered. James took special care to treat my hair with the utmost priority and I was satisfied upon completion. He was friendly and easy to talk to, and told me all he could about my hair. Friendly, inviting, and within a common price range. I will definitely recommend and revisit The First Ward for a downtown hair experience. read more

James is amazing. I love my hair every time. It's very cool comfortable vibe. The conversations are always easy. I highly recommend him.

I hardly know where to begin in professing my very real love for The First Ward, and everyone there who makes it such a special, inspired local business. I look forward to every appointment. I know that not only will I walk out delighted with freshened, happy hair, but also have the opportunity to enjoy quality time having a truly elevated experience in a spectacular space with superb humans (not hyperbole). Jessica is a beautiful, kind, and talented human with whom I trust my hair totally and completely. She respects and honors the natural head of hair you were given, and performs skilled magic to make it the very best it can be. Doing my own hair well has never been easier, and it takes me much less time and effort than it once did. (Also, shout out to the products I religiously use that they carry - Davines Oi Milk and Oi Oil - they are legit game-changers for the quality / feel of my hair and counter the abuse I inflict on it all summer). Jessica & James also majorly contribute to / invest in the local community, not only philanthropically, but also by supporting other local businesses, AND injecting a healthy dose of style and cool factor. They are dream local business people, and we are VERY VERY lucky to have them. Thank you The First Ward for being the little slice of heaven behind the blue door. PS Sarah is also a a real gem - a friendly, funny, creative, A+ human who makes you feel at home and very well cared for, and she also takes my scheduling shenanigans in stride with a smile and a solution. read more

The First Ward is everything you not only want, but need in a salon. I trust James completely with my hair and trust his advice. He knows what he is talking about. Schedule in advance, as they do stay pretty booked up, but I promise, the wait is so worth it. read more

The First Ward is likely one of my most favorite establishments in Tulsa. The quality of the service, the amazing space, the fantastic people and the overall vibe make the First Ward the best salon in T-town. I won't bother describing the space - it's beautiful and all other reviews have indicated as much. It's exactly where you want to be during the whole cut and/or color process. The people are wonderful. My appointment was scheduled by Cheyenne who was super warm and kind. There was a bit of a wait before Jessica, my chosen stylist, was available for an appointment. We went ahead and scheduled the appointment but anytime there was a cancellation or an availability in Jessica's schedule, Cheyenne called me to see if I could make it. That was really cool! She also called me a week or so after my appointment to make sure I was still loving my style. My service was done by Jessica and James. They are both really accomplished stylists and really friggin good at what they do. Plus they were both awesome company through the whole cut and color process. The absolute best part for me was how awesome my style turned out. I wanted to try something a little different but I didn't want it to be crazy dramatic. Jessica listened to me and guided me to choose the right style. Everything was executed to perfection. I'm really excited about the First Ward and what they offer to the Tulsa community. read more

I have never walked out of a salon, or really anywhere, with so much confidence and such a positive attitude. I never knew that for years I was getting a sub-par haircut, until I walked into The First Ward and walked out with THE haircut. Since getting my first haircut from The First Ward, I haven't gone anywhere else. I trust Krystal and Jessica so much with my hair, that I basically give them freedom over it. James gave me highlights three years ago that I still, till this day, get compliments on. Cheyenne runs the front desk and she's always so kind to offer you a fresh french press or cocktail. Their team of hair artist (I say artist because they are more than just hairdressers) are amazingly talented, as well as friendly and approachable. To be able to trust someone with your hair can be difficult for some but this team help make you feel comfortable, relaxed, and understand what will work best for your look and how much maintenance you're used to. The environment alone is beautiful and incredibly thoughtful. You can tell that they care a lot about what they do and take pride in it. They see potential where others don't see in themselves and they truly can changer your prospective of hair. If you're looking for a new place or just trying to change things up, I always suggest The First Ward. Thank you First Ward for inspiring me and see the potential of creativity with this crazy long hair. read more

In a class by itself here in Tulsa, The First Ward is not only a salon; it is a piece of Oklahoma history AND one of the most stylish spaces I have had the pleasure of visiting. Its layout is open, trendy, friendly and aesthetically perfect. I knew I was in for a treat when I opened the door and began ascending the stairs. First Ward's clean lines, open layout, historically claimed originality injected with modern design leaves you with a feeling of freshness and excitement. I was not expecting that when I first arrived (I didn't know what to expect to be honest), but I can say that I loved the space without hesitation. Moving past the perfection of the layout and design, enter the staff. Talk about a mix of professionalism and passion - you won't find a collection of individuals like this for at least 4 states in any direction -- and even then you'd be hard pressed. I have had the privilege of visiting some of the worlds more "premier salons" and as of today, The First Ward is my favorite. I wasn't lucky enough to get my do done while I was here but I saw several guys and gals get styled to perfection and I was jealous. Whether you're in Tulsa for the weekend or you live in this fresh and up-and-coming city; you should definitely add The First Ward to your list of things to do. Treat yourself and get cut, styled or just roll by to say what-up to this amazing place - sure to be a Tulsa Icon before long. read more

What a beautiful salon tucked away in a great old building in downtown Tulsa. I was in town to attend a banquet and I actually walked into another salon and made an appointment...upon showing up for that appointment at the other salon they were...CLOSED! Starting to panic I checked yelp and found The First Ward. I called, a bit worried, and asked if they had anyone that could do an updo and of corse could they get me in now - eeek! The woman who answered the phone was great, she asked around the salon and asked if anyone could take me right away...and they could! Yahoo! Blood pressure resetting to natural levels... The salon is a large open space that is both urban and inviting! Krystal was amazing and not only did I just stumble in I had no idea what I wanted (I know, I know). She asked a few questions about the event and what I was wearing and poof - perfect party hair! It was a great experience and I would recommend this place to anyone and everyone! read more

Great place - I see crystal and she's awesome. aesthetically pleasing decor, good coffee, and they sell a sweet little selection of crystals and minerals along side the hair products. read more

Mark Devore is amazing...and I miss him already. Let me explain. I moved to Austin, TX several years ago and on a whim went to a salon near me. There was Mark. Just waiting to make my hair beautiful. And make my hair beautiful, he did! While I was younger, I wanted my color to pop but now that I'm a bit ...er...older, color needs to be blend nicely through the growing in gray, be a bit more subtle but also have a bit of a wow factor. He got it soooo right. I've had to go sometimes 3-4 months without an appointment due to a crazy work schedule. It takes me a long time to figure out the "line" where the last color stopped and the grays begin. He also does a lovely job with the cut. I walk out of the salon looking at bystanders thinking...oh no, don't hate me for having beautiful hair and continue sauntering down the street. He's helped me with chin length bobs to something a little Veronica Lakey that allows me to undo or downdo to my hearts content. Simply put, I am very happy with my hair. And Mark is awesome. He just is. So, why do I miss him already? Because he moved to Tulsa!!!!! And he is coming to The First Ward. Waaaahhh. You guys are lucky ducks. read more

This was my first time ever getting my hair done professionally and I was so scared for anyone to touch my hair but I got James! Once James started talking to me about my hair I instantly trusted him he know what he's doing I wanted to go all blonde but he said it would take a few processes so we went with an ombré look and I love it and happy with the decision we made I can't express how great this place is it's in a very cute an unique building very easy to find very very welcoming everyone is so nice and friendly definitely coming back!! read more

The First Ward - Hair Salons Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

what's not to LOVE about the First Ward? the environment.. minimalistic, calming, and comfy-cool. the people.. warm, friendly, and TALENTED. the booze.. wine, cocktails, coffee = all the essentials. I seriously am so into this place. my one [but actually really my future husband's] wish is that it was a little less expensive.. but to me, it is most definitely worth it! I walk out feeling like a million bucks - refreshed, calm, and beautiful. let's do this.. shall we? read more

The First Ward - beautiful vibe.. and WINE. - Hair Salons Near Me - Tulsa, Oklahoma

Mark Devore is fantastic! I completely trust him with my hair. I was a client of Mark's in Austin, TX for more than 7 years. Through the years I've had highlights, all-over color, long hair, short hair, straight hair and wavy hair (my stick-straight hair developed a wave about 2 years ago). Mark does a fantastic job with all of them. I just go in and tell Mark kind of what I'm thinking and let him take the lead - I have not once been disappointed. He always creates an amazing color and style that compliments the shape of my face, my complexion and hair texture. A great hair stylist is important. Think about how much you spend on a pair of shoes or a purse that you only wear sometimes. You wear your hair each and every day - you deserve to feel and look amazing. You will not be disappointed with Mark Devore at The First Ward. read more

I was staying in Tulsa for a few months and needed to get my hair done. I was very nervous not to have my normal salon but the firt ward had rave reviews so I thought I would give it a try. The place was AMAZING! Everyone was so friendly and the place has a fantastic vibe! I was so lucky to get Audrey! She was Awesome! I wish I could take her back to northern idaho with me! The best balayage highlights and trim I have ever had. I walked out feeling amazing! Audrey had the most classy and calming personality. She also was amazing at explaining to me how to better manage and style my hair at home. Like I said I wish I could take her back with me! Seriously I can't say enough about this salon you won't be dissapointed! Make sure to ask for Audrey! read more

The best. The very, very, very best. Every stylist is amazing and the ambiance makes you feel cool by proxy.

u finna cop a cut? u like tulsa OK? this is ur spot the ppl here are super nice this is seriously the longest hair cut i ever had (circa one hour 15 mins) but i enjoyed it more than i would if i were chillin in southern france with my homies sippin on fine wines eating oysters hahah the ppl here are #real first ward has an unreal aesthetic game. the interior makes u feel at ease, all cool colors and open concept and shit if tulsa is lookin for a new concept for commercial establishments first ward has they finger on a great pulse ere naw i pull up for a come as you are no reservations hair cutting and it was awesome hahahahahah #positivereviews ok well good luck tulsa it was real good luck ill be back to take over the bank of tulsa in a few months lol ok bye *puts on shades gets a haircut sips a champagne* post scriptum u guys need to get a bar to serve to you customers because i was hankering read more

I'm extremely particular about who I let cut my hair. I've had a total of 3 different people accomplish this task in my 28 years, and only change cutters when I move cities. Reluctantly, I allowed my wife to talk me into the First Ward and like so many times before, she pointed me in the direction of happiness. James has been cutting my hair for two years now and he is the absolute best. Not only are the hair cuts top shelf you guys, he is quite the conversationalist. From poker to golf to cocktails to how to keep your sneaker game on point, I always leave feeling happy and well versed in a new subject. I cannot recommend James and the rest of the First Ward crew enough. read more

This places knows how to take care of clients. I finally for the first time in my life feel I have a competent stylist. Not only do I appreciate her, but the entire staff! Besides haircuts I was a color virgin and Audrey has made the process comfortable for me and has taken great care in my hair. So much so that I have had two appointments, and between the two have totaled 8.5 hours! This is a true gem here in Tulsa. Wonderful environment, welcoming staff, people who care and great products to boot! Come in and support your local talent. I honestly feel it is impossible to not have a good experience here. read more

If I could give Jessica 10 stars, I would. She's easily the best hair stylist I've come across in Tulsa. Highly recommended.

Great haircut from wonderful people in a beautiful space. I can't imagine anyone being disappointed by any of the people working here.

I live in California and was visiting home for the holidays and needed a fresh balayage. James did a fantastic job. I have blonde hair which can be tricky and I am quite picky when it comes to the look of it. James made it look SO beautiful. Such a wonderful salon, full of wonderful people. James is awesome! read more

Well, I haven't been in yet but if the customer service is even a small indication of what I can expect, I'm ecstatic. As a new mom, it has been virtually impossible to get an appointment to get my hair done since I never have a babysitter and don't want my child to ruin anyone else's salon experience. When I called to set up an appointment, I was actually offered an appointment during off hours to help ease the potential of a tough experience. I'm eager to leave another stellar review after I walk out a new woman! read more

I've been seeing James for several years now. It's amazing what a hair cut and style can do for you. I always leave feeling refreshed and on top of my game. read more

If you're looking for a new stylist, Mark Devore is your man. But, be ready. Mark was my stylist in Austin TX for ten years, then I upped and moved to Boston and then eventually San Francisco. I was addicted (as are many others) and I scheduled trips to Austin so I could keep getting my haircut by him! When all you have to do is walk and sit down and he figures out the rest... that's magic, pure magic (and priceless!). I'm bummed he's moved back to OK but Tulsa is lucky to have him. read more

I've had several cuts here since my first review and they keep getting better and better. Krystle is awesome at helping me reimagine what I want my hair to look like. I love that they don't push product on you, but have excellent products available if you want. I'm still so into the overall aesthetics of the place. And as I've gotten to know each of the stylists and Cheyenne (the receptionist), I'm loving this place more and more. People ask me where I get my hair done all the time, and I've been keeping a little stack of their cards on me so I can spread the good word. If you are looking for a place to give you cool hair in Tulsa with out a snotty vibe, this is your spot. read more

I have been to the first ward twice now and I know I will not go anywhere else to have my hair done in Tulsa. I am so so pleased with everything here, I'm kind of scared of moving to another state and not having the first wars come with me! I moved here in September not knowing anyone so I went into a salon blindly hoping they were good. I decided all over blonde was too much to keep up with and I wanted something more natural. Long story short, she screwed up my hair and I was searching for someone I might be able to trust. Several friends referred me to the first ward. I made an appointment with crystal and I am so happy I did. At first I needed help correcting my color because it looked awful. I didn't have to explain much, she just knew what to do! And she cut my hair in a way that shapes my face nicely which is saying a lot for someone with huge cheeks! A month later I decided I really missed my blonde hair but I had been told by someone else that if I went back blonde my hair would fry and fall out. Obviously terrified, I went in asking if crystal could help me out with my processed hair. She was happy to help and used a method more gentle on my hair. She's has made a plan for me to come back in so many weeks to get lighter and what we can do after that to ensure I keep the blonde and and keep my hair healthy. I trust her so much and take my advice - go see her! I thought I should try to save money but the services I received were less than adequate. Yes, I pay more at the first wars but I think it's totally worth it to feel Happy about your hair! read more

Firrrrst of all, this is my first ever yelp review sooo this is kind of a big deal. Second of all, this was my third hair cut in 5 years... another big deal. I am generally very unsatisfied with hair cuts so I tend to avoid them until my hair gets out of control and I have to get one. However, after leaving the first ward, my opinion of hair cuts has completely changed!!!!! The overall vibe of the place was extremely laid back and friendly My appointment was with James. He was super cool and automatically made me feel at ease about the whole process. I didn't meet Jessica, but James told me lots about their relationship and how they came to be "the first ward." It was a really cool story and I think the love and happiness that they feel for each other and their business shines through in their work. James was totally patient with combing through my many tangles (haha) and was very helpful with giving me feedback on what style would be best. For example, bangs or no bangs? He even said "i'm not going to pressure you into more hair cuts than you need because with your style of hair, you really only need a hair cut once a year" which I thought was way cool and speaks volumes about his sincerity. I am severely lacking in the hair styling department and after the cut, he even gave me some styling tips. I used some of those tips when styling my hair this morning and it made so much difference!! All in all, it was a wonderful experience and I wanted to give a big THANKS for restoring my faith in hair cuts!! read more

Tulsa is so lucky to have Mark! I didn't call him Magic Mark just for fun, the man is a hair genius. I have horrible frizzy wavy unruly hair & he tamed it like a magician. I will miss him here in Austin so much that I've contemplated the drive to Tulsa. You won't be sorry if you trust him with your tresses! read more

Let me just start by saying... if you are looking for a new salon and debating going anywhere else. Stop looking now. The First Ward is your new place. The salon itself is absolutely beautiful and has a wonderful, calming atmosphere. And the stylists are all incredibly talented and to top it off they are all very lovely, genuine people. My stylist is James and he is basically a hair magician and I truly look forward to my appointments not only because I know I will look great, but also because he is a great person and makes you feel like you are just catching up with an old friend. All the other stylists have always been very friendly and make you feel very welcome. And I can't forget Sarah! She handles the front end of the office and is beyond friendly and is totally ontop of things. My last appointment I had to reschedule last minute and she was so helpful in getting me in on time and was super nice about it. She truly goes above and beyond. Also, I wanted to note that the pricing here on yelp says they are an expensive salon... Do not let the deter you. Yes, you could find a salon that is cheaper, but you won't find stylists better than the crew at The First Ward at ANY price range. I'm on a budget just like a lot of us are and they are worth every penny. Seriously you guys, I can't say enough nice things about The First Ward. If I could give them a hundred stars I would. Trust me, make an appointment. You will not be disappointed! read more

The First Ward has added an AMAZING hair stylist and colorist-extraordinaire! Mark Devore is hands down the BEST hair professional who I have ever had the pleasure of working with. He *really* listens to what you have to say - both about your hair needs AND about your life. I trust Mark completely with my style and my color - I get so many compliments on my hair, and every single time, I just smile and quietly say "Thank you, Mark!". Tulsa and The First Ward are so lucky to have such a talented and genuinely nice guy right there in the heart of it all! read more

Mark has been cutting my hair for over 15 years. Even when I didn't live in the same city, I would come back to him as often as I could. He's professional & funny, one of the best in the business. read more

Krystle is a goddess. She saved my hair after a year of bleaching and gave me one of the best haircuts of my life. Plus they have cocktails available. Seriously, stop yelping and just make an appointment! read more