Root 13

Written by: Lindsey McClain, Chamber Intern
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Debbie Dalbey is a stylist, a mom, and most recently the owner of Root 13 Salon.  This salon is a new, trendy and chic business that is attracting young hairdressers with its bohemian decor, modern curb apparel, and some of the best salon parking in Richmond. Opening just a few months ago in October of 2021, the building had to go through immense remodels to get it ready for new clients. This church-turned-dance-studio-turned-salon is now home to five hairdressers, including Debbie, and two lash technicians, all of whom can appreciate the time and care that went into the remodel of this building. Many community members also reached out to compliment the building’s remodel and thank her for bringing business to the southside of Richmond. Debbie found this community support to be some of the most rewarding parts of her journey.    

Debbie has been doing hair for 24 years, but it wasn’t the path she always followed. She received a scholarship in high school that allowed her to pursue an education for free, taking both hair and nursing courses. When her side hobby of doing hair really took off, Debbie decided to drop those nursing classes and instead pursue hair styling full time. Now with so much experience behind her, owning her own business seemed like the best next step in her career. She said, “It was always a dream of mine to own my own business.” Social media played a large role in attracting new talent to Root 13 and in scheduling appointments. Many clients call and schedule appointments, but now more than ever clients are booking their appointments online.  Not only are new customers excited to experience all the upgrades of Root 13, but also a myriad of Debbie’s lifelong clients.   

Debbie is now able to help young professionals in her building by providing them with the resources they need to succeed in their respective careers. Ally Shepard, Sidney Williams, Logan Saylor, and Ashley Morales are the hair stylists there, and Jozey Wilmoth and Ali Bailey are the lash technicians, all of whom specialize in their own variety of services such as waxing, hair extensions, faux freckles, and tooth gems. Even with this variety, Debbie still has spaces for more professionals, which she looks forward to seeing filled.    
Root 13 is unique in a number of ways. From private color mixing stations for the stylists, to the hidden cords and ample space, Debbie's knowledge of salons assisted greatly in her remodel. Young hairdressers are excited to work there with the variety of amenities offered to them and their clients. Inclusivity is also an extremely important part of Root 13. The building features gender neutral bathrooms and product marketing. Amika, the line of hair products sold at Root 13 are cruelty free, vegan friendly, and quality products for hair health. Customers can be confident that these products are the best ones for their hair and the environment.   

Debbie appreciates her ability to be creative in her line of work and the opportunity to be flexible with her schedule. In the future she hopes to become an educator for other salons and stylists, offering advice on hair products, trusted techniques, and even the business aspects of being a stylist. The passion Debbie has for hair styling and running her business is evident; it is shown through her customer care, her detailed renovation, and her lifelong clients. Debbie is bringing new life to the hair styling industry and with it fresh stylists, better products, and a fully renovated salon. ​