Best. Haircut. Ever: Carrie Caluya at the AJF Salon

It all started innocently enough. This gorgeous raven-haired woman stepped into the FRINGE boutique and her face lit up. She was admiring the amazing chrome cabinets that are exclusively available at FRINGE. Like a raven, this midnight clad goddess likes shiny things. Dressed head to toe in black, this petite beauty came off as uber-hip and sweet, so when she admired the texture of my hair (now how often do you get that?) I preened. Her hair was a super cool hair-do that reminded me of Japanese anime. Her friend, who was shopping with her, also was sporting a great hair statement. He informed me that she cut hair. She told me she loved to work with curly/wavy hair. All of a sudden I wanted this sleek, svelte creature-of-the-night to cut MY hair. And before you know it, I had made some calls, got myself an appointment, and met her at her salon. 
Her name is Carrie, Carrie Caluya, and you really should write that name down. She's not just a talented hairstylist, she is an educator. Carrie has been cutting hair for 11 years, and currently she's an Artistic Director for AJF Salon in midtown, Sacramento. She not only takes on clients, she trains other hair stylists on advanced cutting techniques, and she loves her work. 

Carrie Caluya: Expert Hair Stylist and Educator

When I showed up to the AJF Salon for my appointment, I ran into my artist pal, Lindsay, in the waiting room, who was also there for a haircut- which seemed a good omen. Auspicious as well, was the lovely assistant who greeted me and offered me a something to drink while I waited. The whole salon was buzzing, full of friendly faces; it felt very inviting. The assistant, who has been training with Carrie for the past year, also had a beautifully cut bob, her hair a gorgeous arabesque swirl of curls. When I admired it, she informed me that it was Carrie who had cut her hair, but that was months ago, and she was due for another cut.  All I could think of was if her haircut looked that good 3 months into it, I was in for a very good hair experience.

The After: Textured hair that showcases the natural curls.

It was such a great experience. Carrie arrived full of smiles and a big hug. She and her assistant played with my hair while Carrie asked me a few questions, like how much time I like to spend on styling (which is about 2 minutes, max). Then she even started the cut.  She took out most of the bulk from the top of my hair so the hair looked lighter, less clumpy. She gave me a a cropped neckline but kept it looking natural. She told me to be ok with stray strands at the neck, as it "keeps things interesting." I loved how Carrie worked with my hair's wavy/curls and texture, creating a cut and style that was non-fussy, and instantly chic. She then styled it with some hair product and a blow dryer and I left with the most adorable cropped + curly haircut. 
But would this translate well at home, left to my own (blowdryer-free household) devices? Quick answer: YES. With a dab of hair product and less than a minute of styling, the new 'do makes a charming hair statement with minimum effort.  In fact, I can not believe how happy I am with my hair, because aside from sticking a little bobby pin or barrette here and there, and a few dabs of conditioning cream, I do very little, and now have a great haircut that does so much.I pretty much just WAKE UP with cute hair, and I don't think I've ever said that before in my life. I know that I've stumbled onto an incredible hairstylist, and know that her shiny scissors will be returning to my head the next time I need a cut. I would highly recommend Carrie, and the other great stylists at the AJF Salon.
You can get your own expert hair cut and style at: 
AJF Salon3016 J StreetMidtownSacramento, CA
To book an appointment:  (916) 446-2940info@ajfsalon.com
Ask for Carrie Caluya as recommended by the Citizen Rosebud
Disclosure: I received a courtesy haircut from Carrie for the purpose of this review. The haircut and services by Carrie and the staff at AJF were exemplary. The opinion is my own. And it would probably be yours.