about
Welcome to AOC Salon, where artistry, community, and sustainability converge to redefine the salon experience. Founded by Dalbe Markman in 2008, AOC Salon has set the standard for excellence, effortless luxury, and creative expression in Hampton Roads and stands out as an inspiring space for both artists and clients alike.
our story
Dalbe began her journey in the salon industry after spending the early part of her career performing as an actress in New York City. For years she worked in several different top salons in NYC, getting experience under her belt and learning how to run a salon…all in preparation to open her own one day. When Dalbe and her husband Brian moved to Virginia, she instantly missed the high standards she’d encountered in New York, as well as the upscale salon environments with top-of-the-line furnishings and innovative elements. She resolved to bring that level of quality and sophistication to the Hampton Roads area, and from there AOC was born.
Starting from scratch, Dalbe hired 2 stylists and built AOC Salon from the ground up, starting with the Norfolk location and eventually opening the Hilltop location a few years later. The salon’s unwavering commitment to high standards, exceptional service, and good vibes has been the cornerstone of our success since day one.
our standards
The team at AOC Salon prides ourself on our reputation for excellence, confidence in our collective skills, and a collaborative spirit that ensures clients always receive the best care.
We believe in nurturing talent from within. We take young stylists under our wing through our apprenticeship program, quickly building their confidence and honing their skills as we work together to foster a culture of growth and innovation. Our rigorous standards ensure that every team member can confidently treat clients and execute their needs, maintaining the integrity and quality of our services and prioritizing the health and beauty of our clients’ hair above all else.
BEHIND OUR NAME
The name AOC stands for "Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée," a term used in France to denote a guarantee of quality for wine and cheese. This "stamp of approval" symbolizes our commitment to excellence across all facets of our business. From the moment you step through our doors, we aim to provide an experience that feels like home – warm, inviting, and inspiring.
SUSTAINABILITY AND innovation
AOC Salon is proud to be the only salon in Hampton Roads participating in the Green Circle program. We recycle 95-98% of our salon waste, sending all cut hair to be repurposed into plastic containers or used in oil spill cleanups. We responsibly dispose of chemicals, preventing them from polluting our water systems. By offsetting our environmental impact, we contribute to a greener planet.
Our commitment to sustainability extends to our furnishings, with both salons featuring refurbished antiques and repurposed items, such as doors from a local school and dental cabinets. We strive to minimize waste and maximize creativity in every aspect of our business.
AOC SALON &
Davines
As a Davines concept shop, AOC Salon partners with a brand renowned for its sustainability and B Corp certification, symbolizing the highest standards of social and environmental performance. Our shared values with Davines underscore our dedication to doing good and giving back. In addition to using Davines products for the majority of our in-salon treatments, we also have a large selection of their products for sale in our retail section for all of your at-home needs.
We invite you to join our community, where you can feel inspired, safe, confident, and free to embrace change. At AOC Salon, it's not just about great hair – it's about an unforgettable experience that you’ll carry with you long after you walk out of our doors.