On Peace Portal Drive in Blaine there’s a very cozy, very cool salon where the vibe lies in that relaxed happy space between glam and bohemian. The single styling chair faces a big picture window while happy beats float over the bright and funky decor.
Photograph by Kris Gray Photography
“Our logo represents us well. It was designed by our friend named KC Lange who owns X Tattoo in Bellingham. It depicts a hare with the “Aladdin Sane” lightning bolt down its face to represent David Bowie, who is a huge icon of ours,” Owner Sara Dahlstrom says.
Photo by Kris Gray Photography
“Having clients in this shop is like inviting people to our living room,” says Co-Owner Lauren Obukowicz. “It’s cheesy, but we want this to be a place where you feel like you belong.”
“Hair is important. It’s the crown you never take off,” Dahlstrom says, not taking her eyes off her client’s long, blond hair.
“We don’t give you a generic haircut. We cut your hair in a way that flatters your face.” Obukowicz’s conviction is evident in every word she says.
“We help our clients show people they care about themselves. And that’s why we always do styling consultations to make sure our clients have styles that are easy to take care of and replicate at home,” Obukowicz continues. “We don’t want our clients to only feel beautiful when they’ve come to see us, but all the time. What we’re doing here, you can do for yourself every day.”
Photo by Kris Gray Photography
“Each head is my canvas,” Dahlstrom adds proudly. “That people can have trust in my work is one of my favorite things ever.”
Dahlstrom and Obukowicz explained that since a person’s hair and styling desires (and anxieties) are different, they dedicate time to really listening and making sure their clients feel neither intimidated nor judged while still giving sincere and thoughtful styling advice. This approach has won them a full list of loyal clients, booked several months in advance.
The business partners met when they worked across from each other at Bellis Fair Mall.
“When we first met we really hit it off, and we’ve now realized how lucky we are to create a business together,” Dahlstrom says. Emboldened by the shop’s congenial atmosphere, I decided to ask my own nagging question about hair: “We have so many people who are new to the Pacific Northwest living here now who maybe aren’t so used to this climate. What’s the one piece of hair advice you’d give to new residents?”
“Get to know and enjoy your natural hair texture,” Obukowicz answers immediately. “You can’t fight the humidity, but we can help find a cut that enhances the texture that you have.”
Wild Hare carries the R+Co product line, an all-vegan product containing a styling agent that offers UV and thermal protection. They encourage bookings for all hair textures, including every type of curls. In addition, Wild Hare is registered with Strands for Trans, a world-wide association promoting greater beauty inclusivity. 2240 Peace Portal Dr., Ste. C3, Blaine, wildharebeautyco.com
