Our Team
We are a collective of artists who strive to make you feel welcome and at home from the moment you enter our space.
At Beehive we believe in kindness, compassion, and gratitude towards you and your hair.
Our artists are all independent stylists, responsible for their own booking and cancellation policies. Feel free to book services through our website or by contacting them directly.
Liana Darlington
Owner, Lived-In Color & IBE Master Technician
@hairbylianadarlington
Originally from Kansas City, I started developing my craft in 2003 while owning an exclusive Bumble and Bumble Salon. I’ve since taken my talents across the country from San Francisco to Boston, where I learned the art of hair painting from some of the best in the industry.
My journey brought me here to the arts district of Portland, Maine where I decided to open Beehive, a warm and inviting space for stylists to create within their niche, and for guests to have a laid back luxury experience where our team focuses on building relationships one hair transformation at a time.
I am forever a student and love learning the latest and greatest in the industry, my specialty is lived in color and seamless hair extensions. As an IBE Master Technician, my commitment to education isn't just about mastering techniques; it's about evolving alongside an industry that's ever-changing. My certification was earned through passion and dedication to provide you with an extension method that focuses on hair health and ensures your hair dreams become reality.
My Most Influential Courses Include:
Invisible Bead Extensions Master Technician Certified and Invisible Bead Masters Business Certified
Bumble & Bumble: Cut Foundations and Aesthetics, Style I and II, Color I and II, Braids, Salon Business Essentials
Adina Pignatare Balayage Certified
DV Colour Master Class Certified
Arrojo Cutting
Brazilian Blowout Certified
Nikki
Stylist
@nikkididmyhair_
After finding her passion for all things hair and beauty in cosmetology school, Nikki has also found her hair home at Beehive.
She will be working alongside Liana behind the chair learning and fine tuning her skills as a stylist while also taking clients on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays.
She is excited to create beautiful lived-in blondes, rich dimensional brunettes and complementing cuts and styles to make her guests feel their very best.
Nikki also styles hair and makeup for brides and bridal parties and cannot wait to build lasting, meaningful connections with anyone who lands in her chair.
Outside of the salon Nikki is adventuring with her partner and their two dogs, golfing, cooking at home, or spending time with her family.
Justina
Stylist
@justinahairstudio
Nice to meet you - let’s talk numbers… I’m 39, have been married for 18 years and have an almost 15 & 11 year old, all while earning over 22 years of experience in this beautifully, demanding industry!
Our family relocated to Maine 6 years ago, but it all started for me in New York where I was raised. We then moved to Virginia for 4 years where I worked as a Master Stylist receiving extensive, continuous training in Bumble & Bumble, Sebastian, Wella, and Graham Webb- for both coloring and cutting techniques. Specializing in all color techniques, I will also provide you with a beautifully, crafted cut!
When I’m behind the chair, I come alive as an artist – I enjoy making those who sit in my chair feel comfortable, beautiful and confident. I am detail-oriented, paying extreme attention to not only to the hair, but to the clients needs as well. You can relax and trust your hair needs will be met in my hands. My chair is a safe space to come as you are, full of real talk, down to earth conversation, which usually results in friendship. Thanks for listening, I appreciate you and excited for what’s to still come. xx
Some Fun Facts About Me:
Tomboy to 3 older brothers
As a kid I wanted to be a Police Officer
Avid athlete - focused on triathlons, running and heavy lifting
Love reading (mystery thrillers are my jam!)
My secret skill - parallel parking
I’m Italian - so you’ll never go hungry around me
Kari
Stylist
@karikelleyartistry
I have always been a creative, detail-oriented, “extroverted introvert”, and am proud to be part of this industry where helping people feel seen, heard, and confident is part of my everyday job.
My specialty is sun-kissed, natural-looking hair color, and flattering cuts on all hair types and textures. I exclusively use Original&Mineral low-toxicity hair color. Another area of my expertise is makeup and styling for events, weddings and shoots.
I am forever inspired by the ocean and the feeling of summer. If you love how your hair looks after a day at the beach or on vacation, I’ve got you!
I’m a Maine native and have also had the privilege to live in and attend training in multiple cities and even internationally, including Boston, NYC, Sydney and Melbourne.
My Most Notable Education:
Bumble and Bumble University - Color and Styling
Jaye Edward - Blonding
Emma Chen - Makeup Artistry and Styling
We’re passionate about your hair…
and it shows.
A Word from our Clients
“The minute I walk into Beehive, I know I’m in a space where I can truly relax. The soft music and friendly staff are so welcoming. I never feel hurried along and prefer the intimate setting and top-notch hair services at Beehive over any other salon in Portland.
Beehive truly is a diamond in the rough and I’m so grateful that I found it!”
— Emily K.
“The hair artists at Beehive are the masters of a perfect low-maintenance blonde balayage look. I love every experience at Beehive, and recommend it to everyone I know. The salon has such a relaxing and enjoyable environment, and I always leave feeling like a better version of myself.”
— Danielle F.
“My experience at Beehive has been ideal - the salon is so comforting and pleasant as soon as you walk in. With a nice cup of tea and conversation, I always feel confident in the stylist’s hands. I am consistently happy and impressed with my hair after leaving the salon.”