The brand · San Antonio

The story of Alfredo James.

A San Antonio hair salon built on beautiful hair, genuine hospitality and a standard we keep at every appointment, in Stone Oak and Alamo Heights.

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Our mission

We believe everyone deserves to feel confident, cared for and truly seen.

That belief shapes everything at Alfredo James Hair Design: how we welcome you, how we listen, and how carefully we finish your hair before you leave. Founded by master colorist Alfredo Contrera with partners James McDowell and Nicole Taranto, we bring artistry, hospitality and thoughtful leadership together to set a new standard for the salon experience in San Antonio.

Who we are

Three founders. One shared belief.

Beautiful hair, genuine connection and a salon where every guest feels at home.

Founder & Creative Director
Alfredo Contrera
A master colorist with more than 15 years of experience, Alfredo trained in Palm Beach, Denver and Seattle before bringing his craft to San Antonio. He created the AJ Method, our signature balayage, and teaches it to every artist on our team.
Meet Alfredo
Partner · Managing Director
James McDowell
James leads the company’s operations along with its brand, marketing and guest experience, building salons rooted in hospitality, elevated design and thoughtful service.
Partner · Chief Financial Officer
Nicole Taranto
Nicole provides the financial leadership that guides the company’s steady growth, so our attention can stay where it belongs: on our guests and our artists.

What we believe

The standard we keep.

Six principles guide every appointment at both of our salons.

i.
Luxury, without pretense
High-end hair services in welcoming, thoughtfully designed salons, where every guest is treated as someone who deserves exceptional care.
ii.
Confidence is the result
From color and extensions to the final style, our work is measured by one thing: how you feel when you see yourself.
iii.
A method, not a mood
Our signature AJ Method brings precision and consistency to balayage, so a beautiful result is repeatable, never left to chance.
iv.
Artists who keep growing
Our artists bring their own training and points of view. We invest in ongoing education and collaboration so every stylist keeps refining their craft.
v.
Honest pricing
Our menu lists real prices, and your artist confirms the plan and investment before your service begins.
vi.
Community and respect
We use professional-quality products, support our San Antonio community and build salons where guests and team members feel inspired, respected and connected.

Our commitment to you

Hospitality, in every detail.

Exceptional hair is only half of it. Here is what you can expect every time you visit.

Stone Oak Dark, moody and intimate

Alamo Heights Bright, airy and classic

01
A warm welcome
Our front desk team welcomes you in, with a drink menu ready when you arrive: wine, beer, sangria, cocktails, espresso and tea.
02
We listen first
Every appointment starts with a conversation about your hair, its history and your goals. New extensions and AJ Method Balayage begin with a complimentary consultation.
03
Craft you can trust
Your artist works with professional color and care from Schwarzkopf Professional, L’Oréal Professionnel, Redken and Truss, chosen for what your hair needs.
04
A finish worth leaving with
Every color service includes a blowout, so you leave with your hair finished, not just colored.
05
One standard, both salons
Whether you visit Stone Oak or Alamo Heights, you receive the same welcome, the same menu and the same standard of care.