At Sebastian Nello Salon, our story is one of legacy, passion, and generations of dedication to the craft of hair.

It all began in Sicily, Italy, where Laura’s grandfather, Vincenzo, owned a barber shop and built a life around his trade. His son, Nello, was introduced to the industry at just five years old — standing on a step stool, helping apply shaving cream to clients. What started as a childhood memory quickly became a lifelong passion.

In 1965, Nello brought that passion to America, where he began working in a barber shop on Michigan Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. He then brought his skills to Skokie, Illinois, to a local salon. Just two years later, in 1967, he purchased that very salon— laying the foundation for what would become a family legacy. Throughout his career, Nello built a strong reputation in the industry, even styling hair for Channel 7 news and patrons at the Maywood Park Racetrack, an early reflection of his skill, trust, and versatility behind the chair.

Laura grew up immersed in that world. Saturdays were spent in her father’s salon, watching, learning, and falling in love with the energy of the industry. By 13, she was shampooing clients. At 15, she began beauty school through her high school program, and by 17, she earned her cosmetology license.

Determined to carve her own path, Laura chose to gain experience outside the family business. She worked as a receptionist at Supercuts during high school, then transitioned into a stylist role, focusing on cutting. After gaining experience at another salon in Harwood Heights, she ultimately returned to her roots, joining her father in Skokie, where she assisted him while building her own clientele.

As Nello retired, Laura carried the family's legacy forward with the same dedication, craftsmanship, and personal care that had defined it for decades. Although the original building was sold, the business lived on. Laura relocated and continued growing the salon, eventually opening a new location in Niles in March 2015 — closer to home, where she was raising her family and building her future.

Today, Sebastian Nello Salon stands as a reflection of that journey. Built on generations of experience, we are proud to carry forward a legacy rooted in hard work, artistry, and genuine connection.

Being part of this community means more to us than just providing a service. We’ve had the privilege of caring for clients through every stage of life. Over the years, those relationships grow into something deeper. Our clients become family, and that sense of connection is at the heart of everything we do.

To us, it’s more than just hair; it’s family, history, and a passion that continues to evolve with every client who walks through our doors.