Martinsville Mondays:
providing a unique and welcoming space for everyone
Unicorn AF Salon
In the heart of Martinsville, one local business is redefining what it means to visit a salon. Since opening its doors on July 1, 2023, Unicorn AF Salon has become much more than a place to get a haircut, it's become a safe haven where creativity, individuality, and acceptance take center stage.
Founded by owner and stylist Annette Fitzgerald, Unicorn AF Salon was built on a simple but powerful vision: to create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment where every person feels safe, comfortable, and free to be themselves.
"I wanted to build more than just a place to get your hair done," Annette shared. "I wanted to create a space where people can be themselves without fear, a place that especially supports the LGBTQ+ community, people with anxiety, and anyone who has ever felt out of place in a typical salon setting." Located in the Holiday Shopping Center on Virginia Avenue, Unicorn AF Salon offers a bright, creative atmosphere where self-expression is celebrated. With more than 16 years of experience as a licensed cosmetologist, Annette specializes in a wide range of services, including haircuts, eyebrow waxing, highlights, and vivid, rainbow-inspired hair color. Her passion for bold and creative color transformations has helped the salon stand out as a truly unique destination in the area.
About half of the salon's clientele are members of the LGBTQ+ community, and many clients return time and time again because of the affirming and welcoming environment they find inside the salon. Annette's goal is simple: she wants every client who walks through the door to feel heard, respected, and confident when they leave.
Reflecting on her journey, Annette says there have been many proud moments along the way. Opening day marked the realization of a dream she once never imagined possible. More recently, being voted Best Salon in Henry County has been an incredible honor and a testament to the impact the salon has made within the community.
Another accomplishment especially close to Annette's heart is helping establish a queer support group alongside Tom at VHRC. Providing a safe meeting space within the salon for this group has become one of the most meaningful aspects of her work.
Looking ahead, Unicorn AF Salon is continuing to grow and is currently seeking additional booth renters. Annette is looking for passionate, motivated stylists, barbers, and braiders who are searching for more than just a chair. The salon offers an encouraging environment where creativity is embraced, individuality is celebrated, and professionals are supported as they build their businesses.
When asked about the legacy she hopes Unicorn AF Salon will leave behind, Annette's answer reaches far beyond hair.
"I want my business to be remembered as a place where people felt safe, seen, and accepted exactly as they are," she said. "A space where someone could walk in unsure of themselves and leave feeling confident, empowered, and proud."
Through its commitment to creativity, connection, and belonging, Unicorn AF Salon is proving that a salon can be so much more than a service it can be a community.
As someone who regularly highlights local businesses throughout Martinsville and Henry County, I believe Unicorn AF Salon fills an important role in our community. Small businesses are often the heart of a community, but businesses like this go a step further by creating spaces where people feel genuinely welcomed, accepted, and valued. In a world where many individuals still struggle to find places where they can truly be themselves, having a business that intentionally fosters inclusivity, creativity, and connection is incredibly meaningful. Unicorn AF Salon is not only helping people look their best, but also ensuring that members of our community feel seen, supported, and empowered and that is something worth celebrating.
Be apart of SOMETHING beautiful
Join the team!
As Unicorn AF Salon continues to grow, Annette is currently looking to expand her team and has booth rental opportunities available. If you're a licensed stylist, barber, braider, or beauty professional searching for a supportive, creative, and inclusive environment to grow your business, this could be the perfect fit.
If you love Martinsville Mondays and the incredible stories of our community and would like your business to be featured, contact Daydream Photography to share your story with us!