Inside Agim Salon, tucked into The Gardens on El Paseo, the energy is dynamic. The salon is elegant without being stuffy, relaxed but undeniably refined, with a mix of European flair, Hollywood polish, and a rock ’n’ roll edge that’s become owner Agim Rakipi’s trademark.
“The difference between good and great is knowing how to go the extra mile,” he says. “My goal is always to bring out their best, not to change who they are.” He holds himself to a high standard, obvious to clientele who have flocked to his El Paseo salon since 1997. That location eventually grew into satellite salons at hotels and country clubs, and Rakipi returned to El Paseo in 2021 with the salon he runs today.
Talent for styling hair runs in Rakipi’s family. His mother worked behind the chair in Albania, and today, his daughter Aliana is following in his footsteps, training in New York under celebrity colorist Marie Robinson. His wife, Bruna, also performs all services at the salon and leads the makeup offerings.
Before launching his own business, Rakipi worked under some of the biggest names in the business, like José Eber and Frédéric Fekkai, sharpening his craft in both Europe and America. His work has appeared on television, film sets, and red carpets, yet what keeps him inspired is simple: the connections he makes with people in his chair.
The salon space reflects Rakipi’s lifelong love of rhythm and style. There’s always music playing, usually something with a little soul: classic rock, old R&B, or blues, and the walls feature posters of music legends. Balmain Paris Hair Couture chose the salon as the exclusive desert home for its products, emphasizing the salon’s luxurious spirit. It’s high-end, but never uptight.
“At this point in my career,” he says, “I just want to have fun. Great hair. Great people. Great energy. That’s what it’s all about.” Agim Salon proves that hair can feel easy, chic, and a little rebellious.
Agim Salon
73575 El Paseo, Suite 1318, Palm Desert
agimsalon.mysalononline.com
Agim Salon
73575 El Paseo, Suite 1318, Palm Desert
760-340-0335
agimsalon.mysalononline.com
