Sara Power Barber, master stylist
Other than a part-time babysitting job, cosmetology has been Sara’s life’s work. She learned the business in high school sweeping floors, cleaning shampoo bowls, booking appointments and washing dirty towels at a downtown Aiken salon.

In no time, she was styling hair and a flurry of customers requested her services. Soon, it became obvious that she had enough clients — and staying power — to open a downtown business. Which she did, at the age of 20.

She knows her stuff, from hair care, to nail care to facials, and for seven years she was a national Paul Mitchell educator. But she’s also a savvy businesswoman. She keeps up with the hottest fashion and beauty trends, and understands the intangible persuasion of excellent customer service, aesthetics and attentiveness.

“This is my dream come true, and I couldn’t do it without my customers and staff. I was born to do this type work. I love every minute of it.”

In her junior year at South Aiken high school, Sara began working as an assistant at a local salon and worked with her mentor for four years before opening a tiny salon a few blocks down the street.

At home, Sara enjoys cooking, being a great mom to her daughter, relaxing with friends and family, and riding her horse, Derby. She is a member of both the Aiken Hounds and Flat Branch Foxhounds.