Beauty begins with belonging

A hairstylist blow drying a woman's hair in a salon with purple walls.

Rooted in technique

elevated through creativity

grounded in care

At Capacity for Now
Due to high demand, VIOLA Salon is unable to welcome new clients at this time. We are so grateful for the community we serve and will share updates here if availability changes.

Book Appointment
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A woman with shoulder-length, blonde, curly hair in a salon or similar setting.
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Hi, I’m Joey!

A man with curly hair, a mustache, and tattoos on his arm, wearing a rust-colored polo shirt, smiling at the camera.

Joey Viola Gehman
Owner & Stylist

“Advanced technique meets deep care.”

With nearly two decades behind the chair, Joey brings precision, intention, and a love of the craft to every client experience. A Philadelphia native and Redken Artist with advanced certifications in design, color, and barbering, he has built a career on technical excellence as well as mentoring and educating stylists nationwide.

Specializing in textured hair, balayage, blonding, cutting, razoring, and barbering, Joey is known for his versatility and for helping people feel confident in their own skin. His work is rooted in connection and guided by the belief that beauty should feel personal, not performative.

VIOLA Salon is the realization of a long-held vision: a space that reflects Joey’s values and the lessons learned from the mentors and clients who’ve shaped his journey. As owner and founder, he is proud to offer something entirely his own—where every guest is seen, celebrated, and styled with intention.

Outside the salon, Joey finds joy in life with his husband T.J., their cat Louie, and their dog Layla. He’s a Broadway enthusiast, active in Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ sports leagues, and a volunteer with Restore Salon Services, a nonprofit providing free, empowering hair care to those without access to traditional salon spaces.

Beauty with Intention

Everyone belongs here.

Not every salon has felt that way—especially if your sense of self hasn’t always been affirmed. That’s why I lead with care, hold boundaries with respect, and create space for you to feel safe, seen, and beautiful.

All hair is good hair.

I approach every texture—straight, wavy, curly, coily—with equal respect and curiosity. No hair needs to be “fixed.” It deserves to be understood, supported, and styled with intention.

Comfort is part of the service.

Whether you want quiet retreat or easy conversation, VIOLA Salon is a place to slow down, sip a coffee or wine, and pause from the pace of life.

Beauty is a collaboration.

I don’t just style—I co-create. We start with conversation and shape every choice together, so the result reflects who you are and how you want to feel.

Excellence is the baseline.

Technique, creativity, education—these aren’t extras, they’re the foundation. Every client deserves work that’s not only beautiful, but meant to move with you: fluid, natural, and lasting.

"Joey brings grace, skill, and a sense of calm… even when life (and curls) get wild." ···

"Joey brings grace, skill, and a sense of calm… even when life (and curls) get wild." ···

  • “Joey’s been our person for over a decade—stylist, confidante, and cheerleader through every season. He brings grace, skill, and a sense of calm… even when life (and curls) get wild.”

    Nina P.

  • “I have been following Joey from salon to salon for 10 years. He’s an absolute all star. If you like feeling like your barber is your best friend… he is going to become your best friend.”

    Evan M.

  • “Lovely, quaint, and beautiful salon. I loved the one-chair experience—you feel very centered as the customer. Joey is such a hospitable host… the space feels intimate and professional.”

    Robbie A.

  • “Amazing! Joey is so skilled and knowledgeable. I sought him out again at Viola and he was able to fit me in… I’m so glad he did.”

    Marin S.

  • “I had the BEST haircut I’ve ever had. If you’re a curly girl, you know how hard it is to find someone who understands your hair—Joey is your guy… an artist and curl expert.”

    Abby M.

  • “I’ve been going to Joey for years and can’t recommend him enough. He’s incredibly talented with hair—and one of the warmest, most genuine people you’ll meet.”

    Sarah G.

  • “Been going to Joey for 8 years. Services are always top notch. This new studio is beyond special… you can tell all the care that went into making clients feel welcome.”

    Daniel G.

  • “I cannot say enough good things! The atmosphere is welcoming, inclusive, and relaxed… a place where you instantly feel at ease.”

    Fran S.

FAQs &
Kind Reminders

    • Plenty of street parking

    • We validate parking at the parking garage at 215 Lombard Street

    • Main ELITE Suites entrance and restrooms are ADA accessible

    • Private salon suite allows for low-sensory, one-on-one experiences

    • Private locking area for bikes and scooters

    • Located one block from buses 40 and 12

    • Five minute walk to buses 42 and 21

    • Ten minute walk to the L (2nd Street stop)

  • Let us know about any sensory needs, accessibility requests, or preferences - we’re here to support your comfort in every way.

    • Private Suite entrance

    • Complimentary light snacks, wine, and assorted beverages

    • Free WiFi

    • Phone charging station

    • Cozy waiting area

    • ATM on site

    • We accept credit cards, debit cards, and cash.

    • Credit card payments are charged a 3.5% processing fee at the time of service.

    • ATM is available on site.

    • A valid credit card is required at the time of booking to secure your appointment. A temporary $1.00 hold will be placed on your card to verify it, but it will not be charged. Payment is only processed at the time of service.

    As a boutique salon owner, I’m committed to keeping our services elevated yet accessible. Credit card companies charge significant fees on every transaction, and unlike larger corporations, I can’t absorb those costs without raising our overall menu prices. By adding this small percentage, I’m able to protect fair pricing while continuing to offer you the personalized, boutique experience you deserve.

  • We kindly ask for at least 48 hours notice whenever possible. A minimum of 24 hours notice is required.

    Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice will be charged 50% of the service total.

    No-shows will be charged 100%.

    If you need to reschedule, your cancellation fee can be credited toward a new appointment within 10 days, pending availability.