New Customer Offer! Call Us For Same-day Appointment Availability At (240) 734-3035
FAQs

Are you ready to experience The Swella Standard?

Here's everything you need to know in preparation for your first appointment with Swella.

Our promise.

To provide quality, convenient, and stress-free hair braiding experiences. We are dedicated to providing an experience that is as beautiful and protective as the style.

One-Stop-Shop

Modern & Cashless

Quality Services

Have More Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does my natural hair need to be to get braided?

4 inches long! This is the length of an average pinky.

What kind of braiding hair do you use?

We use Ruwa braiding hair. For boho hair we use a synthetic + human hair mix.

I want to bring my own hair in, what kind of hair should I bring?

Please bring in your braiding hair the business day prior to your appointment. Please note we are closed on major holidays and Mondays & Tuesdays! On average, prepare to bring 5 - 6 packs of the 3 bundle X-pression and Freetress - 24”. We do not currently accept human hair for braiding.

Can I add expedited services?  

Yes! Check out our expedited service packages.

What lengths do you all provide?

Shoulder, Back, Waist. We do not offer shorter or longer styles than listed.

Is the braiding hair included?

Yes, once you book you will receive an intake form to fill out with your choice in hair color.

Do you braid over locs?

No, we do not braid over locs.

Is the deposit refundable?

No the deposit is non-refundable, if you have remaining questions please reach out prior to booking!

Why do I have to pay a non-refundable deposit?

The deposit reserves your appointment at Swella. Swella strives to empower and treat our community of braiders well, including doing what is right by them even if comes off as an annoyance to the end consumer. A deposit is required to ensure our stylists still receive payment for their time and best intentions when customers cancel last-minute.

Do we offer custom mixes?

Yes, for an additional fee! If you have already booked your appointment and want a custom mix added please text us.

What is your cancellation policy?

You have up unto 48 hours before your appointment to cancel with no fee. If you cancel within a 24-hour period you will be charged 50% of the service price. If you cancel the day of the appointment you will be noted as a "no show" and charged 100% of the service fee. *Please note the deposit taken when you reserve your appointment is non-refundable.

What is the policy if I am dissatisfied with the final result of my hair?

At Swella we utilize confirmation checkpoints to avoid misaligned expectations between stylist and customer. These checkpoints are mini moments throughout your appointment when you are asked about various aspects of the style (i.e. length check.) In the instance that you are still dissatisfied with the outcome, you have 24 hours, from checkout, to inform Swella by sending a text to (404) 465-4498 regarding your concerns. Please include pictures if possible.

Do you do men's hair?

Yes! We do all hair. Everyone has the ability to look bomb in their Swella Braids. Our services are available to all! 

Do you offer mobile services?

No, we do not currently offer mobile services. If you're interested in receiving mobile braid services from Swella at a later date in the future - please share your interest here.

Can I send a picture of a style I would like to get done?

We do not offer designs or styles that differ from those displayed on our booking site. However, if you're looking to send us a picture regarding something else, please feel free at (404) 465-4498.

My head is partially shaved, can I still receive braids?

Yes - Swella is able to install braids on the part of your head that has a minimum of 4 inches of hair. Please note that there is no difference in price for this service.

I have a white cast at the roots or edges of my braids - is this normal?

Yes this is normal if you have had your braids in for several days or weeks, depending on a number of factors. The white cast you see is a build-up of product (gel, edge control, etc.) To get rid of it, utilize a braid shampoo at the roots and edges of your braids. Additionally, you skip the shampoo by applying oil and a warm washcloth to the problem area.

I am headed on vacation, is it safe to swim in my braids?

Yes it is safe! In fact, it's quite common that people receive braids right before travel for a low maintenance hair do that they are comfortable getting wet at the beach. You deserve to be care-free with your braids on vacation! Pack a silk scarf and mousse to minimize the frizz and look as good as you feel on your vacation.

How long can I wear my braids?

It depends. Swella Knotless Braids can last you anywhere from three to 10 weeks with proper care. Swella Cornrows will likely last you two weeks or less. For best results, tie a silk scarf on the edges of your hair and apply a bonnet at night. To get the most wear out of your style, utilize Swella's maintenance services such as touch-ups and takedowns.

Have More Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does my natural hair need to be to get braided?

4 inches long! This is the length of an average pinky.

What kind of braiding hair do you use?

We use Ruwa braiding hair. For boho hair we use a synthetic + human hair mix.

I want to bring my own hair in, what kind of hair should I bring?

Please bring in your braiding hair the business day prior to your appointment. Please note we are closed on major holidays and Mondays & Tuesdays! On average, prepare to bring 5 - 6 packs of the 3 bundle X-pression and Freetress - 24”. We do not currently accept human hair for braiding.

Can I add expedited services?

Yes! Check out our expedited service packages.

What lengths do you all provide?

Shoulder, back, waist. We do not offer shorter or longer styles than listed.

My head is partially shaved, can I still receive braids?

Yes - Swella is able to install braids on the part of your head that has a minimum of 4 inches of hair. Please note that there is no difference in price for this service.

Do you do men’s hair?

Yes! We do all hair. Everyone has the ability to look bomb in their Swella Braids. Our services are available to all!

Do you offer mobile services?

No, we do not currently offer mobile services. If you're interested in receiving mobile braid services from Swella at a later date in the future - please share your interest here.

Can I send a picture of a style I would like to get done?

We do not offer designs or styles that differ from those displayed on our booking site. However, if you're looking to send us a picture regarding something else, please feel free at (404) 465-4498.

My head is partially shaved, can I still receive braids?

Yes - Swella is able to install braids on the part of your head that has a minimum of 4 inches of hair. Please note that there is no difference in price for this service.

Is the deposit refundable?

No the deposit is non-refundable, if you have remaining questions please reach out via text (404) 465 - 4498 prior to booking.

Why do I have to pay a non-refundable deposit?

The deposit reserves your appointment at Swella. Swella strives to empower and treat our community of braiders well, including doing what is right by them even if comes off as an annoyance to the end consumer. A deposit is required to ensure our stylists still receive payment for their time and best intentions when customers cancel last-minute.

What is your cancellation policy?

You have up unto 48 hours before your appointment to cancel with no fee. If you cancel within a 24-hour period you will be charged 50% of the service price. If you cancel the day of the appointment you will be noted as a "no show" and charged 100% of the service fee. *Please note the deposit taken when you reserve your appointment is non-refundable.

I have a white cast at the roots or edges of my braids - is this normal?

Yes this is normal if you have had your braids in for several days or weeks, depending on a number of factors. The white cast you see is a build-up of product (gel, edge control, etc.) To get rid of it, utilize a braid shampoo at the roots and edges of your braids. Additionally, you skip the shampoo by applying oil and a warm washcloth to the problem area.

I am headed on vacation, is it safe to swim in my braids?

Yes it is safe! In fact, it's quite common that people receive braids right before travel for a low maintenance hair do that they are comfortable getting wet at the beach. You deserve to be care-free with your braids on vacation! Pack a silk scarf and mousse to minimize the frizz and look as good as you feel on your vacation.

How long can I wear my braids?

It depends. Swella Knotless Braids can last you anywhere from three to 10 weeks with proper care. Swella Cornrows will likely last you two weeks or less. For best results, tie a silk scarf on the edges of your hair and apply a bonnet at night. To get the most wear out of your style, utilize Swella's maintenance services such as touch-ups and takedowns.

Is the deposit refundable?

No the deposit is non-refundable, if you have remaining questions please reach out via text (404) 465 - 4498 prior to booking.

Why do I have to pay a non-refundable deposit?

The deposit reserves your appointment at Swella. Swella strives to empower and treat our community of braiders well, including doing what is right by them even if comes off as an annoyance to the end consumer. A deposit is required to ensure our stylists still receive payment for their time and best intentions when customers cancel last-minute.

What is your cancellation policy?

You have up unto 48 hours before your appointment to cancel with no fee. If you cancel within a 24-hour period you will be charged 50% of the service price. If you cancel the day of the appointment you will be noted as a "no show" and charged 100% of the service fee. *Please note the deposit taken when you reserve your appointment is non-refundable.

What is the refund/return policy?

In the instance that you are dissatisfied with the outcome of your style, you have 24 hours from checkout to inform Swella by sending a text to (404) 465-4498 regarding your concerns. Please include pictures if possible.

How long does my natural hair need to be to get braided?

4 inches long! This is the length of an average pinky.

What kind of braiding hair do you use?

We use Ruwa braiding hair. For boho hair we use a synthetic + human hair mix.

I want to bring my own hair in, what kind of hair should I bring?

Please bring in your braiding hair the business day prior to your appointment. Please note we are closed on major holidays and Mondays & Tuesdays! On average, prepare to bring 5 - 6 packs of the 3 bundle X-pression and Freetress - 24”. We do not currently accept human hair for braiding.

Can I add expedited services?

At this moment we are not currently offering expedited braid services. We hope to bring it back soon. You can sign up on our website for any upcoming updates!

What lengths do you all provide?

Shoulder, back, waist. We do not offer shorter styles than listed.

My head is partially shaved, can I still receive braids?

Yes - Swella is able to install braids on the part of your head that has a minimum of 4 inches of hair. Please note that there is no difference in price for this service.

Do you do men’s hair?

Yes! We do all hair. Everyone has the ability to look bomb in their Swella Braids. Our services are available to all!

Do you offer mobile services?

No, we do not currently offer mobile services. If you're interested in receiving mobile braid services from Swella at a later date in the future - please share your interest here.

Can I send a picture of a style I would like to get done?

We do not offer designs or styles that differ from those displayed on our booking site.  

My head is partially shaved, can I still receive braids?

Yes - Swella is able to install braids on the part of your head that has a minimum of 4 inches of hair. Please note that there is no difference in price for this service.

What payment does Swella take?

We are cashless - we take debit, credit, and Apple Pay.

I have a white cast at the roots or edges of my braids - is this normal?

Yes this is normal if you have had your braids in for several days or weeks, depending on a number of factors. The white cast you see is a build-up of product (gel, edge control, etc.) To get rid of it, utilize a braid shampoo at the roots and edges of your braids. Additionally, you skip the shampoo by applying oil and a warm washcloth to the problem area.

I am headed on vacation, is it safe to swim in my braids?

Yes it is safe! In fact, it's quite common that people receive braids right before travel for a low maintenance hair do that they are comfortable getting wet at the beach. You deserve to be care-free with your braids on vacation! Pack a silk scarf and mousse to minimize the frizz and look as good as you feel on your vacation.

How long can I wear my braids?

It depends. Swella Knotless Braids can last you anywhere from three to 10 weeks with proper care. Swella Cornrows will likely last you two weeks or less. For best results, tie a silk scarf on the edges of your hair and apply a bonnet at night. To get the most wear out of your style, utilize Swella's maintenance services such as touch-ups and takedowns.

Is the deposit refundable?

No the deposit is non-refundable, if you have remaining questions please reach out via text (240) 734-3035 prior to booking.

Why do I have to pay a non-refundable deposit?

The deposit reserves your appointment at Swella. Swella strives to empower and treat our community of braiders well, including doing what is right by them. A deposit is required to ensure our stylists still receive payment for their time and best intentions when customers cancel last-minute.

What is your cancellation policy?

The Deposit (non-refundable) will go towards your ticket at checkout. We understand that sometimes schedule adjustments are necessary. We respectfully require at least 24 hours notice for rescheduling or cancelling appointments. You are able to cancel and reschedule your appointment from your appointment confirmation email. This policy allows us to provide the best service to customers. Appointments cancelled less than 24 hours in advance will be charged 100% of the reserved service price.

What is the refund/return policy?

We aim to provide the best service to every customer. We ask that each checks their hair in the mirror during checkout. If there is anything Swella can fix in a timely manner, we are more than happy to do so in the salon.  

featured "The Swella Standard"

The Swella BraidBar Experience -
what to expect

Customer Reviews

I was pleased with the service and the atmosphere. There were no surprises or added fees. My appointment was pleasant.

Kind and friendly staff, clear policies, clean establishment, and fast service!

Comfortable Atmosphere, timely response and easy scheduling, great customer service and styling options

The experience was great and i love my hair.

Shampoo included, hair included, amazing customer service. What more can you ask for!

I like the ambience of the establishment, the fact that it is Black American owned and operated, clean and professional.

Kia was very understanding and willing to come up with a solution for my thinning edges. She was extremely quick and professional!

Braids came out beautiful, setting of Swella is amazing and the staff was great!

I was pleased with the service and the atmosphere. There were no surprises or added fees. My appointment was pleasant.

Very nice atmosphere. Very professional. Kamara did an excellent job on my hair

Respect people's time, friendly, great service, accommodating.

Everyone was professional and friendly. My stylist did a amazing job!

The first impression of the salon, down to the hair washer and the Braider.. the overall appearance of the salon

The salon was so clean everyone was very nice and attentive. My braids are impeccable. Porche my braider was amazing! I will definitely be back.

2nd time with this company and equally as pleased

quick and efficient service, nice stylists, caters to needs

Great environment and amazing braider! Very warm and welcoming.

Excellent customer service which is priceless!!!

Convenient, luxury experience, really great service, patience with my daughter's very thick and long hair. Cost is not unreasonable.

Very nice braider! Definitely made my experience good