Welcome to Salon Aken – A Story of Passion, Heritage, and Beauty
Welcome to Salon Aken in Andersonville. We provide outstanding hair and skin care services, including precision and curly cuts, vibrant colors, and stunning extensions. Our team collaborates with you to create your signature look and exceed expectations. Enhance your beauty at Salon Aken.
Hello, my name is Vardan, and my journey in the world of hairstyling is rooted in my childhood, family, and deep love for creativity. Born in Yerevan, Armenia, I was always fascinated by the beauty and artistry of hair. As a kid in a large family, I loved playing with my sisters’ and cousins’ hair—braiding, styling, and experimenting (even if I wasn’t very good at it back then!).
Like many parents, mine dreamed of me pursuing a traditional path—education, a prestigious degree, maybe even engineering (even though math was never my strong suit). But my heart was elsewhere. Encouraged by my beloved grandmother, Aken, I decided to follow my passion and enroll in a hairdressing school instead. Aken, whose full name was Ashkhen, was my hero. All of us grandkids called her Aken because we couldn't pronounce her name properly. She always believed in pursuing what truly made you happy, and I carry that belief with me to this day.
After completing my military service, I began my career as the youngest stylist at KOKO, a salon where I worked for six years. My journey then took me to Los Angeles, where I lived and worked for five years before making the big move to Chicago in May 2012. I joined Salon Eco and spent another five years perfecting my craft before opening HairbyVardan, my own salon, which I ran for seven years. Then, in July 2023, I founded Salon Aken, named in honor of my grandmother, in the heart of Andersonville, Chicago.
Why Salon Aken?
Salon Aken is more than just a salon—it’s a space built on passion, creativity, and community. We are an Aveda Concept Salon, dedicated to providing precision cuts, vibrant colors, and eco-friendly beauty solutions. Our commitment to sustainability means we use only environmentally friendly, plant-based Aveda products that are safe for both our guests and our team.
Our expert stylists specialize in:
✔️ Modern cuts & styling tailored to your lifestyle
✔️ Balayage, highlights, and ombré techniques for seamless, natural-looking color
✔️ Aveda facials & skin services, because self-care goes beyond hair
✔️ Waxing & skincare treatments to help you feel your best
At Salon Aken, we strive to create an atmosphere where every guest feels pampered, relaxed, and at home. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick trim or a complete makeover, our talented team is here to bring your vision to life.
We welcome walk-ins and appointments, and we can’t wait to meet you! Come experience the magic of Salon Aken and let us take care of you.
Visit us in Andersonville at 5666 N Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60660
Call us at 773-739-9291
Learn more at www.salonaken.com
We can’t wait to see you! 💇♀️✨
