Amy Martinese
Owner/Stylist

I started as a stylist in Newburyport, MA. I trained for two years under a master colorist before starting my career. I also worked for Matrix/Logics Professional Color Line as an educator. My training with Matrix was quite extensive. The advanced training would allow me to teach other hairstylists how to use the Logic's Color Systems.

I have worked in downtown Portsmouth for the past 11 years. As a stylist, I enjoy transforming someone's color and style from ordinary to extraordinary. With my advanced training, I can distinguish what shades of color will enhance your eye color and skin tone. I will choose tones that best suite your natural color. I will provide you with the knowledge to maintain your color, what products to use and how long your color should last. For haircuts, I will look at your face shape and determine what style and length will accentuate your features and work best for your hair type.

Maura Gagne
Stylist & Affinage Color Educator

I have been a hairstylist since 1995. I trained with two of the premier salon owners of the downtown area for the time, before starting to build my own clientele. I also trained with a corporate salon for the added experience and education. While working for one of the corporate salons I became an educator for both Textureline and bedhead. I traveled to other salons teaching product knowledge and current styling trends, including what is now referred to as "The Posh Bob".

I have worked for Amy since 2003. At Samba I specialize in several services including men and women's colors and cuts, extensions, and the Chi Transformation System( which is a permanent straightening system as well as improving the texture of your frizzy hair). I am considered the resident Bridal Specialist. My belief is that every bride should be the goddess she's always dreamed of being.

I also specialize in curly hair. Having curly hair myself, I love teaching people how to embrace their curls and waves and make them work without a lot of work. I can also teach you how to blow dry your hair straight with out damaging your hair. Feel free to make and appointment for a free consultation. I look forward to meeting you!

Mandy Mazeau
Stylist

I have been a licensed hairstylist for 14 years. I went to Cosmetology School at West Kent College in Kent, England. I received advanced training in color and hairstyling from some of the top teachers in England.

I am one of the senior stylists at Samba Salon. I have worked with Amy Martinese for 9 years. I truly love the Portsmouth area, and enjoy working downtown.
I specialize in custom design haircutting. I first start by determining the condition and texture of the client's hair. I will design a haircut that works for you. I also specialize in men's haircuts. I have been trained in barbering techniques. My hair colors are custom designed to work with the client's natural tones. I have been trained in makeup application and up-do's and enjoy doing Wedding Parties. I can also shape and wax eyebrows.

Christina Allen
Stylist

I have been a hairstylist for 11 years. I have been working in downtown Portsmouth for the past 5 years.

As a stylist, I enjoy haircutting. By focusing on a client's bone structure and facial features, I will customize a haircut that is best for you. Working together with my client's, we will discuss what works with your lifestyle. I will give you the most current and up-to-date look. With hair coloring, I enjoy working with the client's to give them a color that is specific to their needs. I will change your color as needed with the seasons. I look forward to transforming a new you.

Christi Watson
Stylist

As a stylist for 14 years, Christi Watson has made it her specialty to listen. Working to combine your needs and ideas with your hair type to create the best look for you. Christi has mastered the art of hair color. She can design many looks ranging from bold and trendy to beautifully natural while always maintaining shiny, healthy hair. Christi is also a Certified Extension Specialist. Her ability to believably increase your hair's length and/or thickness can make your hair dreams a reality. Her special occasion up-dos and styles are perfect for Weddings or just a night out. Christi continues to attend classes, workshops and hair shows in order to improve her skills and stay current on all the latest trends in cuts, color and special occasion hair.

Jessica Jewett
Stylist

Recently relocated from Keene, NH, Jessica is Samba Salon's newest team member. Having worked in a large upscale salon, she received advanced training in color and highlighting applications, men's and women's haircutting, point cutting on curly hair and formal hair styling. Jessica took many classes including TIGI training in New York City. She also volunteered her time to do the hair styling for the local Colonial Theatre plays in Keene. For continued education she will be starting a two year advanced training program with Euphora for all the latest trends in color and haircutting.

Pickles
Salon Dog

Rudy
In loving memory 2001 - 2008

"Best Friend"