Fantastic Sams Cut & Color

Mary Elizabeth Downs — 5/5 (via Google) Jan 27, 2026

I can't recommend Fantastic Sams in New Bern enough. It is hands-down the most accessible, compassionate, and inclusive salon I have ever been to. Because of my disability, I have a central line in my chest that cannot get wet, so I come in weekly for a wash and style. For nearly three years, Shelby has taken incredible care of me, always making sure my needs are met safely and without ever making me feel like an inconvenience. That alone sets this salon apart. Shelby also does my color, cuts, and fairy hair. I have orange copper hair with vivid rainbow bangs and a color block, and she executes it flawlessly every time. She even installs my fairy hair using i-tip extension beads so it stays in. Beyond her technical skill, she goes above and beyond to support me when I’m having procedures, surgeries, hospital admissions, or flares by French braiding my hair so it will not become painfully tangled when I cannot manage it myself. That level of thoughtfulness is rare. Shelby and Presley have styled my hair for events, and it is always beautiful. Presley does my extensions and gives me the mermaid hair of my dreams. She is truly my hairy godmother. Karen trims my short, arched bangs with a very stubborn cowlick with absolute precision. She is genuinely my bang whisperer. What makes this salon extraordinary is how kind, patient, and respectful everyone is, especially regarding health issues and disabilities. I am never judged, rushed, or made to feel uncomfortable. Instead, I feel listened to, accommodated, and cared for in ways I have not experienced at other salons. This is a place where accessibility is not an afterthought. It is built into the way they treat people. I love everyone at this salon, and I trust them completely. If you are looking for a salon that combines talent with true human care, this is it.

Amber Meadows — 5/5 (via Google) Nov 30, 2025

Not only is the owner amazing but her whole staff super friendly and helpful. I felt welcomed and even like family the whole time. My stylist Karen did exactly what I wanted while giving me some of her own advice! She surely didn’t lead me wrong! Hands down the best experience I’ve had and will forever be a returning client!

Angela Yu — 4/5 (via Google) Jan 28, 2026

Thank you, Shelby and Kaitlyn, for cutting mine and my 3 year old son's hair. You were both polite, accommodating, patient, and listened to what we wanted and took the time to complete it. And my son wouldn't stay still for Kaitlyn. We know it also wasn't easy because we have a lot of thick Asian hair, and we are very picky. Pricing really affordable.

Eliza Eason — 5/5 (via Google) Jan 5, 2026

Made an appointment for the first time with Kaitlyn for a highlight, tone, and trim. I’ve never been more satisfied with my hair!! Book with her asap if you are struggling with your blonde hair!! Not only was she knowledgeable about products, but she took great care to keep the integrity of my hair while still giving me exactly what I wanted. My hair looks and feels so much better

Rebecca Brandis — 5/5 (via Google) Feb 9, 2026

Came in this morning for a shampoo, cut and blow dry. Karen was awesome! She was welcoming, kind, and funny. I know my hair is a pain in the butt. It’s thick! But Karen took her time, which meant so much to me because most stylists feel my hair and rush. She explained the products she used and what they do and I really appreciate the time she took from her day to give me a nice experience. Self care is so important and as a busy woman, the hour I got to spend with Karen made the start of my week great!