March 20, 2017

Meet Adrianne Smith of Akasa Salon in Old Fourthward

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Adrianne Smith.

Adrianne, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I spent over a decade working in salons from assisting to apprenticing and later becoming a full time stylist. I remember thinking about the things I would (and wouldn’t) do if ever had my own salon. Akasa is really the brainchild of Lauren and my experiences to create something we both could be proud of.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’ve learned so many invaluable lessons since opening Akasa. Finding the balance between managing the business, while still being involved as a stylist has been the biggest balancing act. Each day presents new challenges, but it’s all worth the journey!

Akasa Salon – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We continuously strive to create a minimalistic, gender-neutral space where everyone feels welcome and at home. Each of our stylists brings their own unique energy and talent to the space — creating looks that range from edgy to more natural, low maintenance styles.

We are most proud of the unique and vibrant energy that our customers feels when they walk into Akasa.

Perfectly situated by the Eastside Beltine, our space is a reflection of O4W’s exciting and expanding culture. We feature work from local artists, handmade jewelry, and local goods. We carry Davines, a sustainable product line, as well as use color lines that offer ammonia free to organic.

What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
When we opened Akasa it was just the two of us working and not knowing what would happen really. I think the proudest moment so far was expanding on our vision late last year when we opened our sister salon, Commoner, in Little 5 Points.

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