Meet the Artists
Nicole McCuen
Hey all! My name is Nicole! To say I love what I get to call “work” is truly an understatement. I began my journey in this industry in 2007 and instantly knew I had found where I belong. I spent the early part of my career as a commissioned stylist before taking the leap to become an independent stylist.
Over the years, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to grow a business surrounded by clients who bring me so much joy. It’s truly an honor to have their trust and the privilege of helping enhance their outer beauty while boosting the confidence that shines from within. Whether it’s sharing great conversations and laughter, creating the perfect lived-in color, adding just the right amount of texture, or nailing a precision cut, I love every moment behind the chair.
When I’m not at the salon, you’ll likely find me enjoying a glass (or two) of bubbly, spending time with friends and family, sneaking away on weekend getaways, watching sports, or doing anything that lets me stay active while comfortably living in athleisure.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of crossing paths with incredibly talented and supportive stylists who have inspired me in countless ways. I’m always eager to learn, grow, and challenge myself creatively. I’ve always loved the energy of a small but mighty salon—the camaraderie, the passion, and the way it fills a space. That love is what inspired me to create Meraki., a curated space built on connection, creativity, and heart.
My heart is also deeply grateful for my family—especially my handsome guys: my husband, Kane, our son, Kyan, and my stepson, Max. I’m endlessly thankful for the friends, clients, and relationships that have grown from love, fun, and trust.
Here’s to hair love, happy moments, and good vibes always. XOXO
Owner | Licensed Cosmetologist
nicole.hairsalon@gmail.com
515-231-0289
Currently not accepting new clients. Thank you for your understanding!
Brianna Plendl
Bri has loved hair from a young age. She was the go-to girl for braids, styles for events and bangs with kitchen scissors. Today, not much has changed! (Minus the kitchen scissors.) Bri has officially been licensed in her calling for 9 years with an education from The Salon Professional Academy in Ames. She also has a Brazilian Blowout Certification and continues to grow her talents and love of coloring, cutting & special occasion styles.
Above all, there are 3 things that excite her the most about what she does: (1) the hair; mixing, creating & formulating, (2) the connection; crossing paths with amazing people and (3) the education; she loves any opportunity to grow her skills.
When you can’t find Bri behind the chair, she is most likely spending time with friends & family, hanging out in Okoboji and attending concerts or shopping!
“I love seeing clients smile & making them feel good. The glow and excitement on their faces is the reason I love what I do so much!”
Licensed Cosmetologist
briannaplendl@gmail.com
712.541.7860
Social: @hairbybriannadsm
Sara Ware
Sara has been licensed for twenty years, she received her cosmetology certificate at the Iowa School of Beauty in Urbandale in 2002. Fun fact, she was a barber on a military base in New Mexico for two and half years. Since she has been back in the area, Sara has had the opportunity to train with Rick Mosley at his former salon, Rick Mosley Hair and also with Lindsey Mollenhauer, owner of elevencherry prior to her move to Meraki.!
She enjoys providing blonding services, achieving lived in hair color and long cut styles!
“I love to make clients feel great about themselves. I love meeting new people and the connections and relationships that I get to make with my clients! When I’m not at the salon, you can find me spending time with my son, William, my boyfriend, Bryant and our two cats. You can also find me sipping some cocktails, shopping or doing yoga!”
To contact this independent beauty artist reach out at:
swarepaint@gmail.com
515.306.7110
Instagram: @sw.h.a.i.r
Stephanie Masters
Stephanie has been in the cosmetology industry since 2004. Her continued education as a cosmetologist has ranged from here in Iowa, all the way to Las Vegas, LA, New York, and even to Paris and London as well as many other places around the world. She loves to continue to learn about the newest trends, devices, and technology to be able to offer the best services for her clients.
Stephanie’s journey as a cosmetologist started with the opportunity to work in a day spa in Las Vegas where she practiced both aesthetics and hair services. Over the years, she has adjusted her strengths and continues to do what she is passionate about. Over the past four years, she has been hyper-focused on the aesthetics aspect of her career and has committed to specializing in HydraFacials and Circadia Skin Care. She enjoys being able to advance her skill sets and focusing more of an emphasis on skin care enhancements to help others get the best skin possible!
“What I love the most about my job, is the opportunity I have had and continue to have to meet people of all walks of life. I truly believe that my clients are my family! The love and support that I receive in this job are absolutely unreal and have kept my passion going! As grateful as I am for my client family, I am very blessed with my loving husband, Josh of 15 years, and two wonderful children Beya and Cashton!”
To contact this independent beauty artist reach out at:
Radius.spa@gmail.com
515.783.5457
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