Group of nine women standing side by side in a white studio with high ceilings, dressed in stylish casual and semi-formal outfits, smiling at the camera.

Who We Are

Refinery Hair was created to provide a space for independent stylists to establish their business, feel supported and grow to their fullest potential.

Our mission at Refinery Hair is to build a salon community focused on self care, growth and to honor each guests individual style. We value teamwork, fostering collaboration among our staff. We aim to build confidence and joy in every guest through superior services and a warm, welcoming environment..

Committed to our customer service centered approach, prioritizing each guests needs and comfort. Providing a luxurious experience, blending high quality services with an atmosphere that feels like home. We pride ourselves on building lasting relationships through honest, expert care and consistent results tailored to each guests personal aesthetic.

Meet the Collective

  • A woman with long wavy hair, wearing a white blazer and pants, is seated on a black chair, smiling and laughing, with her right hand touching her face.

    Des Simbro

    Owner of Refinery Hair

    https://www.instagram.com

    With over two decades of experience, a passion for education, and a specialization in Invisible Bead Extensions® and luxury blonding, Des has established herself as a true master of her trade. Her commitment to her clients' satisfaction, combined with her artistic vision, sets her apart as a hairdresser who consistently delivers exceptional results. Whether you're looking for a hair transformation or seeking to enhance your skills as a stylist, Des is the trusted professional who will guide you on your journey to beauty and self-expression.

    Book Now
  • A woman with long, wavy blonde hair and blue eyes smiling while sitting on a stool against a plain white background, wearing a black sleeveless top with shoulder bows and beige pants.

    Alissa Burham

    Hair Stylist

    https://www.instagram.com/alissas.hair.styles/

    My name is Alissa, and I’m thrilled to be a part of the Refinery Hair family. Originally from Minnesota, I have recently made Des Moines my home. I have been doing hair professionally for 8 years in total. With five years of experience specializing in Invisible Bead Extensions®, I’ve spent the last two years as a certified Elite Artist with IBE®. My passion lies in helping my guests achieve their dream hair while prioritizing the health of their natural hair and scalp. I look forward to helping you enhance your beauty and natural hair thrive. Adding color, fullness, and length to your hair is my passion!

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  • A woman with curly blonde hair smiling, wearing a black sleeveless top and white pants, standing against a plain light gray background.

    Marissa Williams

    Hair Stylist

    https://www.instagram.com/hairdobymarissawilliams/

    Hi there! I am originally from Upstate New York and moved to the Des Moines area in 2023. With over 13 years of experience in the hair industry, I specialize in blondes, color, and extensions. Hair health is one of my top priorities along with ensuring guests love their hair. I love being a hairstylist as well as meeting and connecting with new people!

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  • A young woman with long blonde hair, smiling, wearing a black lace long-sleeve top, a light denim vest, and black pants, standing against a plain gray background.

    Ashley Woodson-Schwery

    Hair Stylist

    https://www.instagram.com/hair_by_ashley_marie_/

    I have been honing my hair styling skills for nearly a decade, and my passion for this craft continues to grow. Specializing in extensions and color, I strive to create stunning transformations that leave my clients feeling confident and beautiful. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to staying updated on the latest trends, I am dedicated to providing exceptional service and exceeding expectations. Hair is not just a job for me; it is my true calling.

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  • A woman sitting on a stool, wearing a white blouse, black leather skirt, and black thigh-high boots, with long black hair and tattoos on her left arm, posed against a plain light gray background.

    Karina Bunce

    Hair Stylist

    https://www.instagram.com/karinabuncehair/

    My name is Karina! I have a decade of experience, I’m always up to learning the newest trends and always down to trying something fun and new! I love extensions and color! Dimensional brunettes are my jam, although I get so excited to take someone blonde! I’m a Bridal hair specialist and would love to help make your special day even better’ I’m certified in Great Lengths, Habit handtied, EasiHair and Hot Heads extensions.

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  • A woman with dark brown hair and a beige turtleneck sweater, sitting against a plain light gray background, smiling at the camera.

    Kristy Willett

    Hair Stylist

    Hello! I'm Kristy and this is my 23rd year in the hair Industry! In my years of experience, I've learned dozens of different cutting & coloring techniques! I have worked with all different color and product lines. My passion is color, cutting techniques and smoothing services! Iowa is and always will be home to me! When I'm not working, I'm with my family. We love family and friend time. We love to camp and travel! My door/phone is always open...meaning call or text anytime to book a appointment with me! I usually try to return your text or call by the end of the day.

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  • Portrait of a woman with wavy blonde hair, wearing a white blazer and top, smiling and resting her hand on her neck, against a plain light gray background.

    Samira Alicic

    Hair Stylist

    Hello! I’m Samira, a passionate hairstylist with 20 years of experience specializing in color and hair cutting. I believe that hair is an art form, and I’m committed to working with you to crate a look that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Whether you are looking for a bold transformation or subtle refresh, I’m here to listen to your vision and make it a reality.

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  • A smiling woman with shoulder-length brown hair, wearing a gray V-neck shirt and white pants, standing against a plain background.

    Josie Schrad

    Hair Stylist

    With 20 years behind the chair, I’ve built my career on a deep love for the craft and a drive to keep learning. Over the years, I’ve trained with some of the most respected names in the industry—Bumble and Bumble, Vidal Sassoon, Aveda, Wella, Kevin Murphy, and Davines— so staying current and inspired is second nature to me.

    My specialty lies in creating dimensional, lived-in color, seamless gray coverage, and effortlessly tailored haircuts that suit your lifestyle and the vibe you’re looking for. Whether you’re looking for a subtle shift or a full transformation, I’m all about creating custom looks that feel like you—modern, confident, and easy to maintain.

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Eight women standing in a line against a white wall, dressed in fashionable clothing, smiling for a photo.
team of women putting in hair extensions
A person placing a small black tool and a white comb into the front pocket of beige pants, with the person wearing a black sleeveless top.

Join the team

All of our independent stylists run their own businesses within in our space, while enjoying leadership support for business.

Refinery Hair is the perfect place to grow to your fullest potential!

  • Backbar, capes & towels

  • Website + Marketing + Business Mentorship

  • One week free rent per year

  • Salon branded photoshoots

  • Online booking platform available

Our Stylist Perks