Our Team

Stylists

Erin Hoxie
Hair Stylist & Colorist
Dori Lord
Hair Stylist & Colorist
Victoria Vieira
Hair Stylist, Colorist & Manicurist
Lauren Giles-Peters
Hair Stylist & Colorist
Natalie Violette
Hair Stylist, Colorist & Make-up Artist
Sara
Sara Conde
Hair Stylist & Colorist
Sarah Potter
Hair Stylist & Colorist
Ericka Oberg Devoe
Hair Stylist & Colorist
Jennifer Keilty
Hair Stylist & Colorist
Angela Pensis
Hair Stylist, Colorist & Manicurist
“Josie” Giuseppina Panciera
Hair Stylist
Odemaries Morales
Odemaries “Ode” Morales
Hair Stylist, Colorist, & Makeup Artist
Kristen G
Kristen Gulluscio
Hair Stylist, Colorist, Makeup Artist, Lash Technician

Manicurists

Victoria Vieira
Hair Stylist, Colorist & Manicurist
Samantha (Sam) Davis
Nail Technician
Connie Sergi
Nail Technician
Angela Pensis
Hair Stylist, Colorist & Manicurist
“Cait” Caitlin Hall Bitgood
Nail Technician
Jessica Marie Reyna
Nail Technician
Courtney Bridentstine
Nail Technician & Makeup Artist

Estheticians

Michelle Morrone
Esthetician
Olivia Rose Romeo
Esthetician
Petra Lenihan
Esthetician

Licensed Massage Therapists

Jody Lupinacci
Massage Therapist
Jean Estabrooks
Massage Therapist
Olivia Oberg
Massage Therapist
Kayla Brown
Massage Therapist
Christine Farinick
Christine Farinick
Massage Therapist

Make-Up Artists

Natalie Violette
Hair Stylist, Colorist & Make-up Artist
Lauren Giles-Peters
Hair Stylist & Colorist
Courtney Bridentstine
Nail Technician & Makeup Artist
Odemaries Morales
Odemaries “Ode” Morales
Hair Stylist, Colorist, & Makeup Artist
Kristen G
Kristen Gulluscio
Hair Stylist, Colorist, Makeup Artist, Lash Technician

Guest Service Experts

Darlene Dubois
Darlene Dubois
Guest Service Expert
Lori Lallo
Lori Lallo
Guest Service Expert
Emily Whittaker
Emily Whittaker
Guest Service Expert

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Hair Stylist & Colorist

Erin Hoxie

I can’t imagine a life that doesn’t include styling hair and take pride in staying on top of the latest techniques, as well as knowing the best hair care lines for my clients, many of whom have been with me for over 12 years! In October 2018 I became the first hairstylist to earn the three-step Master Balayage Certification by L’Oreal in Rhode Island! This has required me to complete the rigorous Balayage Techniques class at the L’Oreal Academy in SoHo, N.Y., and also complete other coursework that focuses on creative placement and color balancing. Balayage is something I’ve grown passionate about because it allows me to be creative and customize the applications based on the client’s desires. Uptown allows me to work on the cutting edge of new techniques, which I love! Still, I also appreciate the tools that have worked for me since day one! I love spending my days at Uptown Salon, it’s a terrific team of talented people and our clientele is the best! At the end of the day, there’s nothing I love more than heading home to my husband, children and two rambunctious dogs.

 

 

Favorite Beach:

Narragansett Town Beach

Hair Stylist & Colorist

Dori Lord

I grew up in Westerly, RI and was drawn to working in the salon industry because I enjoy a job that makes people feel beautiful. I trained at Toni & Guy and Aveda Advanced Academy. At Uptown, I have the opportunity to take in-house classes to stay on top of my skills, which is great. I gain inspiration on the Internet all the time where I follow beauty influencers on social media. Being on the Uptown team gives me the chance to work with other professionals that inspire me and share my values. Clients comment often how much they like my Balayage and foiling work. I also am always on trend when it come to color. I listen closely to how my clients describe their needs, and then make recommendations based on what I think will work best for their hair type and lifestyle. I never want a client to feel stagnant, so I’m always ready with ideas for new looks, especially during the changes of the season. Uptown clients can also count on me to incorporate the trends into their personal style. Others might be curious to learn that I went sky diving in Hawaii once! When I’m not working, I enjoy time with my husband and two boys. And on the rare night out, I’m usually with my girlfriends enjoying some wine and dishing on the latest beauty trends!

Favorite Beach

East Beach

Hair Stylist, Colorist & Manicurist

Victoria Vieira

Hello! I grew up in Charlestown, RI and went to Chariho Career and Technical Center to attend their core cutting academy. At Uptown I have a lot of diversity in my work and wear many hats. Mostly, I love to cut hair, but I also am a manicurist. For my ongoing education, I’ve taken classes with L’Oreal for Balayage and also hair coloring techniques with Jo Blackwell. My professional mentor is Erin Hoxie, another Uptown Stylist. She offers me daily insights on how to best serve my clients. I like the diversity of my roles at Uptown, because each position gives me the chance to express my personality and commitment to detail. Two things I can’t live with out are my puppy Zander and a fresh cup of coffee. A random fact that might surprise you is that I enjoy target shooting.

Favorite Beach:

East Matunuck

Hair Stylist & Colorist

Lauren Giles-Peters

I’m Lauren and I’m not from Rhode Island! I grew up in Milford, Michigan and went to the Douglas J Aveda Institute in Ann Arbor. I’ve completed training at Bumble and Bumble, and take classes in salon hair cut and color regularly. When working with a client I learn all I can about their lifestyle and preferences, so I can make specific and fitting recommendations for what hair styles and hair care regimes can work best for them. I specialize in clients looking for someone with deep experience coloring blondes, with am emphasis on creating that much sought after dimensional outcome. When clients get out of my chair, I love seeing the bounce in their step and take great satisfaction knowing that I’ve contributed to their feeling that they are walking out the door a new and improved version of themselves. People are often surprised to learn I’ve traveled the globe; I’ve even made it as far as Australia to cut hair!

Favorite Beach:

Misquamicut

Hair Stylist, Colorist & Make-up Artist

Natalie Violette

I grew up in Voluntown, CT and studied hair at Toni and Guy Hairdressing Academy. My interest to stay on top of the latest developments in haircare and make up is limitless, which is why you’ll often find me in places where I can deliver beauty services in real time. For example, I’ve worked multiple seasons at Providence’s Style Week, and I’m also backstage at Fitness Shows on the East Coast corridor helping women look their best in competition. Bootcamps at places like Paul Mitchell, Surface, Glo Mineral Makeup, and Temptu Airbrush Make-Up are all in the mix too. In addition to serving my individual clients, I love serving on Uptown’s Glam on the Go team where we travel on site to deliver hair and make-up services to destination wedding parties. It’s highly rewarding work, and I love working in such a festive and energized atmosphere. Clients come to me most often for color make-overs. Because I am a make up artist , I have a well trained eye for what hair color and make-up palette combination is ideal for my client. My deep experience allows me to make recommendations based on what will look best with their skin tone, eye color, and hair color history. Clients can count on me to ask lots of questions about their life-style and habits so that I can help them choose the color and hairstyle that will look great and is achievable on a daily basis for their schedule. I’ve worked at my career from the start, and I am proud to say that I met my goal of being a home owner before turning 25!

Favorite Beach:

Blue Shutters

Hair Stylist & Colorist

Sara Conde

Helping people feel good about themselves is very rewarding and that’s why I pursued an education in cosmetology starting at age 16. Don’t we all feel better after getting our hair done? One of the joys of my profession is that I can give others the gift of forgetting about their worries for a couple hours, and ensure they leave Uptown feeling blissful and ready to take on what ever is on the other side of the door. I specialize in dimensional highlights, including foils, balayage, or a combination of both [foilayage]. Highlights are guaranteed to enhance any cut. I also specialize in cutting and styling curly hair and color correction for those growing out their natural color. For every appointment, I take time to talk to our guests and find out what they need. Clients love the mini head massage I deliver at the sink, as it always sets the stage for them to relax while I do my job. Before coming to Uptown, I worked in New York for a diverse clientele. Now that I’m here, I learn from everyone I work with. Social media is a huge platform I like for exploring hair trends and styles. But ultimately it’s what my clients tell me when sitting in my chair that helps me deliver a consistent look they will enjoy and love between their Uptown appointments.

Favorite Beach:

East Beach Watch Hill

Hair Stylist & Colorist

Sarah Potter

I grew up in Westerly, Rhode Island, attended the Cosmetology program at Westerly High School and have been working in this industry for nearly a decade. Uptown Salon & Spa is a wonderful employer because they support my taking classes that help me stay up with the current trends and styles. One of the best parts of my job is when clients put their trust in me to help them explore a new look that leaves them feeling refreshed and pampered. I’m known for my silly and bubbly personality around the salon, and my coworkers all hear me talk about my 2 dogs Taco and Lucy. What some might not know about me is that I’ve been skydiving!

Favorite Beach:

Sandy Point

Hair Stylist & Colorist

Ericka Oberg Devoe

There are few places I won’t go to take a class or learn a new hair cutting technique. I completed a Balayage Foundations Class in November 2015. Boston, Baltimore and New York are cities I’m regularly in to keep pace with what’s new in fashion. I draw inspiration from following many artists and celebrity stylists on social media, and have my own instagram account at @ericka_hair. Having a career in a creative field is fantastic because things are always changing and I never get bored. Laughing with my clients is always a highlight and makes the days go by fast. Someone might be surprised to learn about my passion for antiques. My fiancé and I are true treasure hunters and have a talent for taking older items and transforming them into garden art. Otis our first child is now 7 months old.

Favorite Beach:

Taylor Swift’s Backyard Beach

Hair Stylist & Colorist

Jennifer Keilty

I’ve been a stylist for nearly 20 years having graduated from Cosmetology School in 1997. I have advanced training in hair coloring, SoCap Extensions and Sio Ionic Straightening. I want everyone that sits in my chair to feel beautiful, confident and satisfied. I’m always honest with my clients, so if they ask me what I think, I will tell them and share suggestions for what they might want consider for their hairstyle.

Favorite Beach:

Block Island’s Mansions Beach

Hair Stylist, Colorist & Manicurist

Angela Pensis

I started my career 7 years ago at Arthur Angelo, and since then have been committed to learning and growing. Uptown clients can count on my skills and always being up to date with latest styles and trends. It’s rewarding to make others feel great. I work with many of our wedding clients and specialize in a variety of upstyles. The relationships I’ve developed with clientele are very important to me, and if they asked me what I couldn’t live without, it would hands down be coffee! When I am not working I’m busy raising my two daughters.

Favorite Beach:

Misquamicut

Hair Stylist

“Josie” Giuseppina Panciera

After 30 years in the business, I can say that Uptown Salon & Spa is where I belong! Throughout my career I’ve maintained dual license certifications in both Barbering and Hair Styling. I’ve never lost my insatiable appetite to keep abreast of the latest innovative product applications and enthusiasm for mastering new cutting and coloring techniques. I keep inspired by attending continuing education programs and workshops with the industry’s leading hair care specialists so I can bring those techniques right back home to Rhode Island where they benefit our Uptown clients.  What people might not know about me is that in earlier days I competed in the Miss Rhode Island Scholarship pageant and was crowned Miss Westerly!

Favorite Beach:

Westerly Town Beach

Hair Stylist, Colorist, & Makeup Artist

Odemaries “Ode” Morales

I grew up in Griswold, CT and graduated from Toni & Guy Hairdressing Academy in Cranston, RI. I specialize in fashion color and am certified by Keratin Complex. One of the ways I stay up to speed on hair trends is to follow influential stylists on social media. I also attend cosmetology shows and classes. Coming to work does not feel like a job to me, because I find pure joy in my work. I go to great lengths to teach my clients how to achieve a salon look at home by sharing insider knowledge and recommending what products are worth spending your money on in order to achieve a professional looking outcome at home. Right now I’m perfecting my hair color and balayage techniques. If I ever have a break in between appointments, my mind goes straight to ice cream. I crave it all year long and love every flavor!

Favorite Beach

East Beach

Hair Stylist, Colorist, Makeup Artist, Lash Technician

Kristen Gulluscio

I’m a practicing hair stylist with more than 17 years experience and once owned my own salon. I’ve learned that the consultation that precedes every appointment is the most important part of the client experience. Listening to guests is crucial and my goal for every session is making sure customers are 100% satisfied before leaving. At Uptown, I specialize in color, balayage, and highlighting. I also provide make-up services, including lash extensions. Building relationships with my guests and teaching them techniques that help them achieve a salon look at home is an important part of my service. I’m always seeking out the latest knowledge on hair and beauty. For example, I watch tutorials, take classes with Paul Mitchell, Schwarzkopf, Deva Curl, Goldwell, and Keratin Complex, and attend trainings like Lash Boot Camp to stay current and always inspired. When I’m not at Uptown, I’m spending time with my husband Jeffrey and son Ashton, who is my pride and joy. One thing you might want to know about me is that I prepare a home cooked meal for my family every single night, so I’m always interested to talk about recipes and share my culinary escapades.

Favorite Beach:

Misquamicut

Hair Stylist, Colorist & Manicurist

Victoria Vieira

Hello! I grew up in Charlestown, RI and went to Chariho Career and Technical Center to attend their core cutting academy. At Uptown I have a lot of diversity in my work and wear many hats. Mostly, I love to cut hair, but I also am a manicurist. For my ongoing education, I’ve taken classes with L’Oreal for Balayage and also hair coloring techniques with Jo Blackwell. My professional mentor is Erin Hoxie, another Uptown Stylist. She offers me daily insights on how to best serve my clients. I like the diversity of my roles at Uptown, because each position gives me the chance to express my personality and commitment to detail. Two things I can’t live with out are my puppy Zander and a fresh cup of coffee. A random fact that might surprise you is that I enjoy target shooting.

Favorite Beach:

East Matunuck

Nail Technician

Samantha (Sam) Davis

I always wanted to be just like my mother, who was a cosmetologist. That’s what led me to attend the Cosmetology Program at Chariho High School and take nail classes. There is so much fashion to keep pace with when it comes nail color and design trends. Uptown clients often tell me how much they love it when I provide them the perfect French or Shellac Manicure. I’ve been honing my craft for more than 6 years, and what keeps me going is seeing how happy Uptown clients are with the services I deliver!

Favorite Beach:

Charlestown Beach

Nail Technician

Connie Sergi

If you’re tired of run of the mill manicures found in every suburban strip mall and instead want an outstanding nail spa experience featuring the highest standards of cleanliness, look no further than Uptown. I specialize in gel nails; nail art, and mixing custom nail colors. Experience has taught me how to combine nail color pigments in order to achieve whatever hue or shade you desire. If you’re looking for something traditional, Uptown clients say I deliver the ultimate French manicure because of my perfectionism for sculpting and shaping nails. I left the Philippines at age 19 to come to America for education and a better life. I miss the simple way of life of my home country, but have found a family of sisters at Uptown Salon who inspire me, support me, and show me how to live an independent life.

Favorite Beach:

Misquamicut State Beach

Hair Stylist, Colorist & Manicurist

Angela Pensis

I started my career 7 years ago at Arthur Angelo, and since then have been committed to learning and growing. Uptown clients can count on my skills and always being up to date with latest styles and trends. It’s rewarding to make others feel great. I work with many of our wedding clients and specialize in a variety of upstyles. The relationships I’ve developed with clientele are very important to me, and if they asked me what I couldn’t live without, it would hands down be coffee! When I am not working I’m busy raising my two daughters.

Favorite Beach:

Misquamicut

Nail Technician

“Cait” Caitlin Hall Bitgood

I grew up in Carolina, RI and graduated from the Empire Beauty School with a Cosmetology degree & license as a CND Certified Professional. After graduating from Empire, I apprenticed as a hairdresser for 6 months. During that time I realized that I love doing nails. In 2018 I completed the Akzentz Gel Nail Art Class. I enjoy delivering a guest experience that is special and memorable, and try hard to make every Uptown client feel at home. I can’t live without Melly, my 14 year old kitty. Other must haves are glitter and flip flops! Others may be surprised to learn that I love collecting vinyl records and listening to them on my classic record player.

Favorite Beach:

Charlestown Breachway

Nail Technician

Jessica Marie Reyna

My husband encouraged me to pursue my dream to become a manicurist, and I’ve not looked back. Making the hands and toes of our Uptown Seaside Salon customers look fabulous is so much fun. I’m always learning about new products and the best way to apply them. Our customers come to us to look their best at the biggest moments in their life. When I am delivering a service, I appreciate the trust the clients have in me, and how they share details on the most important moments in their loves with me. This is why I enjoy sharing with those that ask that I was proposed to in the Space Needle in Seattle Washington. One thing I can’t live with out is my dog Honey.

Favorite Beach:

Misquamicut

Nail Technician & Makeup Artist

Courtney Bridentstine

I grew up in Griswold, CT and graduated from the Marinello School of Beauty. I spent 7 years as a make-up artist, and during that time worked for both Sephora and a Spa in Norwich, CT. In my career I have studied a wide range of techniques and had the opportunity to glean the classic best practices for clients. What I love about my job at Uptown is the way it helps me be creative and connect with people on a very personal level. My goal is to make them feel 10x better than when they walked in the door, so they leave feeling clean, fresh, happy and beautiful. Being on the Uptown team means I can work with clients over time to develop a signature look that works for them. Clients who come to me regularly will hear me pine about the beaches in Mexico, where I love to scuba dive. Those that sit in my chair might be surprised to hear that I love to sing & once even auditioned for the VOICE.!

Favorite Beach:

Westerly Town Beach

Esthetician

Michelle Morrone

The biggest privilege in my work is getting to take care of the amazing people that come to Uptown. Because my clients live such big lives, I love pampering them in ways that leave them feeling relaxed, refreshed, and with a renewed sense of calm. Keeping clients looking and feeling their best requires an individual treatment plan, so I always take the time to understand what’s happening below the surface so I can design the right fit tailored solution with the highest quality skincare, services and products. Understanding how nutrition can impact your skin is equally important, so I specialize in sharing strategies for improving your skin from the inside out, dermaplaning and educating others on the Elemis & Glo product line. I began my Esthetics career in 1990 at the age of 19. I enjoy continuing my education in this ever growing industry by attending seminars and advanced Esthetics courses. I am currently pursuing a certificate in Oncology Esthetics. Just like my clients, I live a big life and take time to unwind (with a glass of wine) in my garden, spending time with my husband and 3 children, boating, yoga, and walking my dogs. Hoping to add golf and travel as my children are now venturing out into the world.

Favorite Beach:

Block Island

Esthetician

Olivia Rose Romeo

Being an esthetician is an emotionally rewarding profession because I get the privilege to help people feel great about themselves, and for me that is what it is all about! My nickname is Liv and I graduated from the Empire Beauty School. Today I specialize in waxing and lash extensions. Sharing skin care tips and expert advice that  advances my clients’ individual skincare regimes is a big focus for me. When I’m not at Uptown, you can find me watching Lifetime movies with my puppy Mickey. Another big focus for me is coaching high school cheerleading. I pride myself in still being able to keep up with my team on the mat and do some serious gymnastic moves. I’m so happy to be a member of the Uptown Salon and Spa team!

Favorite Beach:

Napa Tree Point

Esthetician

Petra Lenihan

I grew in Westerly, Rhode Island and graduated from the Aveda Institute. Today, people are just starting to realize the importance of self care and I enjoy showing Uptown clients how truly great you feel when you take the time to care for your skin. Every day there are new and improved treatments available in skincare, and it is my job to stay on top of these developments so I can bring the latest insights and best practices to Uptown clients. I find it incredibly rewarding to help others achieve and maintain beautiful, healthy skin. At Uptown we offer the Elemis program, this is a comprehensive program I have trained for and we offer all the modalities and products needed for anything you might want. Most often, people come to find solutions for everyday matters, like fine lines, wrinkles, and acne. Providing skincare and facial program that address these matters, for all kinds of skin conditions, is how I spend much of my day. I am also on top of how my clients’ skin care needs change season to season, and in our work together we adjust treatments so that your skin gets exactly what it needs at every visit. People might be surprised to learn that I come from a family of seasoned entrepreneurs. My mother and sister own and operate a retail clothing store for girls and women brand called Woodmansees in historic downtown Westerly. And my brother just opened up a juice bar. So it’s fair to say that my family has you covered for looking and feeling good from the inside out!

Favorite Beach:

Fenway

Massage Therapist

Jody Lupinacci

My clients are like family to me, and family is something I can’t live without.  My Sicilian Great Grandmother, though never speaking a word of English or having any schooling, was a genius when it came to the human body and homeopathic healing.  Many in my family believe I have inherited her wisdom and gift of touch.  She inspired my decision to attend Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy, where I graduated top of my class in 2006. I love making people feel better and sharing with them specific strategies for the best self care at home.  At Uptown we offer a wide variety of massage therapy treatments such as deep-tissue, hot stones, pre-natal massage, medical massage, body wraps, and bamboo fusion.  Whatever the treatment, I assure you it will improve the quality of your life.

Favorite Beach:

Westerly

Massage Therapist

Jean Estabrooks

Because going to a spa and getting a massage is one of my favorite things to do, I decided to dedicate my second career to becoming a licensed massage therapist. This was after serving as a school guidance counselor for more than 20 years! Groton, CT is my home and where I graduated from Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy in Groton, CT. I have over 720 hours of classroom and clinic instruction in massage modalities including: Swedish Massage, Trigger Point Therapy, Myofascial Release, Acupressure, Deep Tissue and Sports Massage, and stretching including Propioceptive Neuromuscular Faciliation. I’m a member of the American Massage Therapy Association, participate in continuing education classes online, and attend professional conventions and hands-on classes regularly. I study and review massage therapy journals on Anatomy and Physiology, Kinesiology, Pathology, Orthopedic Assessment, and Massage Therapy Modalities. Every client is different and each massage varies so I can tailor it to someone’s specific therapeutic needs. People come to me most often for Deep Tissue Massage Therapy. In follow up session, I often get the chance to introduce a varied menu of massage techniques which deliver even higher levels of wellness to the lives of my clients. During sessions, I try to add value by sharing knowledge and insights on how my clients can stretch and make adjustments to their habitual activities at home that will alleviate the stress and tension in their lives. My interests outside of my work include running 5k races at Misquamicut Beach and making trips to my all time favorite place on planet earth: Santorini Island, Greece.

Favorite Beach:

Misquamicut & Napa Tree

Massage Therapist

Olivia Oberg

I specialize in a very relaxing, feel good massage. I hold many certifications, including Thai Massage Therapy, so I incorporate assisted stretching into all of my massage sessions. My clients enjoy an overall sense of relaxation for their body and mind after a treatment. You can count on me to do a strong verbal intake so I can get to know your specific needs. I’m a great listener and my long term clients know how hard I work to ensure you last massage is as wonderful as your first. People might be surprised to learn that I know how to ride a motorcycle! When I am not at work I am playing with my dog Primrose and sipping Iced Vanilla Chais.

Favorite Beach:

Napa Tree

Massage Therapist

Kayla Brown

Hello! I’m Kayla and grew up in Griswold CT. Today I am a local of Westerly Rhode Islander and graduated from the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy in of Groton CT. My career inspiration is from Amy Hendry, a former teacher and mentor. Her personal experience as a sports massage therapist and expert in Myofascial Release gave me the direction and confidence to pursue a career as a massage therapist. My focus is helping Uptown clients find pain relief with lasting effects through massage. I use a variety of techniques and modalities  to provide the best and most unique experience possible to each client. I’m known for getting to the root source of your pain during a massage. Clients leave my table feeling better and healed by the experieince. I specialize in different forms of Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage, Myofascial Release, Sports/ Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation or (PNF) Stretching, combined with Orthopedic Massage techniques. These techniques are a great solution for those suffering from Forward Head Posture, Rounded Shoulders, Low Back or Hip/Sacral Stiffness, knee and sciatic nerve pain. My mission at uptown is to help all our clients acheive pain relief, healing and ultimate relaxation. One thing a new client would be surprised to learn about me is that I eat a plant-based only diet.

Favorite Beach:

Misquamicut

Massage Therapist

Christine Farinick

I’m a facilitator of your body’s own ability to heal.  Neuromuscular massage therapy is my primary modality.  If you suffer from ailments like sports injury, migraines, stiff joints decreased range of motion or tight muscles, I will help. I’ll go directly to the source of the pathology in your treatment session to deliver immediate relief. You’ll feel renewed and refreshed after just one session. However, most clients come to me for a series of treatments so I can establish muscle memory and stabilization . I’ve been a massage therapist for more than 10 years. My ability to make people feel more at home and comfortable in their bodies is a gift and a blessing. I went to Southeastern Institute of Neuromuscular Massage and studied under the Upledger Institution.  You might be interested to learn that I hiked the Appalachian Trail to raise money for Pediatric Cancer Research, marking  28.3 miles on a single day. My daughter is my inspiration, she has faced and overcome great adversity in her young life, and she’s taught me to be spiritually grounded, look at each person in a holistic way, and make the most of every day. I’ve traveled to 17 countries and am currently working on my first book.

Favorite Beach

Mansion Beach Block Island

Hair Stylist, Colorist & Make-up Artist

Natalie Violette

I grew up in Voluntown, CT and studied hair at Toni and Guy Hairdressing Academy. My interest to stay on top of the latest developments in haircare and make up is limitless, which is why you’ll often find me in places where I can deliver beauty services in real time. For example, I’ve worked multiple seasons at Providence’s Style Week, and I’m also backstage at Fitness Shows on the East Coast corridor helping women look their best in competition. Bootcamps at places like Paul Mitchell, Surface, Glo Mineral Makeup, and Temptu Airbrush Make-Up are all in the mix too. In addition to serving my individual clients, I love serving on Uptown’s Glam on the Go team where we travel on site to deliver hair and make-up services to destination wedding parties. It’s highly rewarding work, and I love working in such a festive and energized atmosphere. Clients come to me most often for color make-overs. Because I am a make up artist , I have a well trained eye for what hair color and make-up palette combination is ideal for my client. My deep experience allows me to make recommendations based on what will look best with their skin tone, eye color, and hair color history. Clients can count on me to ask lots of questions about their life-style and habits so that I can help them choose the color and hairstyle that will look great and is achievable on a daily basis for their schedule. I’ve worked at my career from the start, and I am proud to say that I met my goal of being a home owner before turning 25!

Favorite Beach:

Blue Shutters

Hair Stylist & Colorist

Lauren Giles-Peters

I’m Lauren and I’m not from Rhode Island! I grew up in Milford, Michigan and went to the Douglas J Aveda Institute in Ann Arbor. I’ve completed training at Bumble and Bumble, and take classes in salon hair cut and color regularly. When working with a client I learn all I can about their lifestyle and preferences, so I can make specific and fitting recommendations for what hair styles and hair care regimes can work best for them. I specialize in clients looking for someone with deep experience coloring blondes, with am emphasis on creating that much sought after dimensional outcome. When clients get out of my chair, I love seeing the bounce in their step and take great satisfaction knowing that I’ve contributed to their feeling that they are walking out the door a new and improved version of themselves. People are often surprised to learn I’ve traveled the globe; I’ve even made it as far as Australia to cut hair!

Favorite Beach:

Misquamicut

Nail Technician & Makeup Artist

Courtney Bridentstine

I grew up in Griswold, CT and graduated from the Marinello School of Beauty. I spent 7 years as a make-up artist, and during that time worked for both Sephora and a Spa in Norwich, CT. In my career I have studied a wide range of techniques and had the opportunity to glean the classic best practices for clients. What I love about my job at Uptown is the way it helps me be creative and connect with people on a very personal level. My goal is to make them feel 10x better than when they walked in the door, so they leave feeling clean, fresh, happy and beautiful. Being on the Uptown team means I can work with clients over time to develop a signature look that works for them. Clients who come to me regularly will hear me pine about the beaches in Mexico, where I love to scuba dive. Those that sit in my chair might be surprised to hear that I love to sing & once even auditioned for the VOICE.!

Favorite Beach:

Westerly Town Beach

Hair Stylist, Colorist, & Makeup Artist

Odemaries “Ode” Morales

I grew up in Griswold, CT and graduated from Toni & Guy Hairdressing Academy in Cranston, RI. I specialize in fashion color and am certified by Keratin Complex. One of the ways I stay up to speed on hair trends is to follow influential stylists on social media. I also attend cosmetology shows and classes. Coming to work does not feel like a job to me, because I find pure joy in my work. I go to great lengths to teach my clients how to achieve a salon look at home by sharing insider knowledge and recommending what products are worth spending your money on in order to achieve a professional looking outcome at home. Right now I’m perfecting my hair color and balayage techniques. If I ever have a break in between appointments, my mind goes straight to ice cream. I crave it all year long and love every flavor!

Favorite Beach

East Beach

Hair Stylist, Colorist, Makeup Artist, Lash Technician

Kristen Gulluscio

I’m a practicing hair stylist with more than 17 years experience and once owned my own salon. I’ve learned that the consultation that precedes every appointment is the most important part of the client experience. Listening to guests is crucial and my goal for every session is making sure customers are 100% satisfied before leaving. At Uptown, I specialize in color, balayage, and highlighting. I also provide make-up services, including lash extensions. Building relationships with my guests and teaching them techniques that help them achieve a salon look at home is an important part of my service. I’m always seeking out the latest knowledge on hair and beauty. For example, I watch tutorials, take classes with Paul Mitchell, Schwarzkopf, Deva Curl, Goldwell, and Keratin Complex, and attend trainings like Lash Boot Camp to stay current and always inspired. When I’m not at Uptown, I’m spending time with my husband Jeffrey and son Ashton, who is my pride and joy. One thing you might want to know about me is that I prepare a home cooked meal for my family every single night, so I’m always interested to talk about recipes and share my culinary escapades.

Favorite Beach:

Misquamicut

Guest Service Expert

Darlene Dubois

Did someone say coffee? I rely on my morning cup of Joe to keep pace with my duals roles as Guest Service Expert & Wedding Coordinator. Meeting and greeting Uptown clients each day in our reception area is one of my favorite things to do. Being on the team of one of the leading salon and spas in South County, RI is something I take great pride in. I spend a lot of time helping our clientele stay informed on all our news, programs, events and special offers by creating email campaigns and working creatively on our social media programs. Uptown offers so much we offer in the way of self-care, and I’m just bursting with ideas for helping our clients take advantage of every service and product to help them achieve their goals! Be sure to reach out to me next time you’re in the salon, and I’ll share what’s new! When I am not at Uptown, I enjoy time with my family & long walks with my rescue dog Marley, an American Staffordshire Terrier.

Favorite Beach:

Narragansett Town Beach

Guest Service Expert

Lori Lallo

Before joining Uptown Salon & Spa, I graduated from the University of Rhode Island and spent 10 years as a Salon Manager in the Hospitality Industry. Serving as a Guest Service Expert at Uptown allows me to use my training and experience in hotel service each and every day. I keep a watchful eye on the transformation that happens between when a guest arrives for an appointment, and take note of how they appear as they leave. When they walk out the door with a relaxed smile on their face and looking happy and glowing from their time with us, I know we’ve done our job. When I am not at work, you might bump into me at Homegoods or Marshalls. I’m always on the look out for a great value, and those stores never disappoint!

Favorite Beach:

Misquamicut Beach

Guest Service Expert

Emily Whittaker

When we meet, you’ll quickly pick up on my southern accent. I grew up in Nashville, Tennessee, home to the Grand Ole Opry. For the last 6 years I lived in Florida where I worked at Ritz-Carleton Hotel’s Amelia Island Spa. My Spa Director Gary Virden, was a terrific mentor and I’m grateful for his career guidance, including instilling in me the importance of always providing the best customer service. As a Guest Service Expert at Uptown, I get to do that every day. Our guests are like family to me, and I enjoy recognizing each person by name. My big love of music led me to becoming a Zumba Instructor, and that’s what you’ll find me doing when I’m not at Uptown.

Favorite Beach:

I'm new to RI and just figuring this out!