Elu Salon and Barber

Elu Salon and Barber is such a clean, modern, and welcoming place. The atmosphere is always comfortable and well-kept, which makes the whole experience even better. My barber James is excellent — he’s skilled, professional, and always makes sure I leave with a perfect cut. I also get a straight razor shave from him, and it’s easily the best I’ve ever had — smooth, precise, and never rushed. James really takes pride in his work, and it shows every time. Highly recommend both Elu and James if you’re looking for a great barber and a great experience.

Joshua is an artist…not only did he save the day before the big wedding I was attending, he took the time to educate me on what styles suited me the best. Never have I had more compliments from looking so sharp!

Amazing spot. Joshua opened up the place early for us and hooked us up with cuts. Don’t go to any old grimy spot down the street. This is the premier salon/ barber in Des Moines.

Hands down, the best barber in the city. James is not only good with his hands, he is also a great person to talk to and his jokes are 10/10. When you walk in, you can expect a baller haircut. But when you leave, you will feel like you just got an invite to sit at the cool kids table. People like this don’t just become barbers. They were born to do it. Do yourself a favor, make an appointment. You will thank me later. 💈

James is absolutely the best barber I’ve ever come across. It’s always been tough for me to find a barber that understands what I want, (especially as a walk in) but James killed it. I’ll definitely be coming back to his shop anytime I’m nearby, and I would recommend him to anyone and everyone I know. Would give 6 stars if I could. Thanks again James!

We love our barber James at Elu Salon! He listens so well to what you want, he is always careful and considerate. You can really tell he cares about his clients and that can be hard to find. I highly recommend.

James is amazing! Been seeing him for some time and he never disappoints. Always goes above and beyond. Will be seeing him for years to come. Highly recommend his services. His attention to detail and what you want is top notch.

A friendly giant works here. Don’t present him with riddles, it confuses him. The attention does tickle his fancy, however. Tickle his fancy enough, and you’ll see him jig, prance, and cut a rug with nearly as much flair as he cuts scruffy hairs. Smooth. Suave. Elegant. Moistening. Sheen. Sharp.

I’ve never gotten a bad haircut or beard trim from James. He’s always very focused on his work but still makes good conversation. 10/10 would recommend

I had a great experience at ELU Salon! Joshua was attentive and refreshingly honest. He really listened to what I wanted, understanding both my hair goals and lifestyle. I was particularly impressed by his ability to balance my desired look with practical styling time, resulting in a cut that not only looked great but was also manageable for my daily routine. Joshua’s expertise was clear from the start. He took the time to explain the best styling techniques, recommend the right products, and show me how to maintain my new cut with practical, tailored advice. I really appreciated that there were no pushy sales tactics—only helpful suggestions that actually worked for my hair. I left feeling confident, educated, and absolutely in love with my new style. Joshua's combination of skill, honesty, and customer-focused approach makes this salon stand out. If you want a stylist who listens and delivers a look you'll love (and can maintain), he's your guy. Highly recommend!

Absolutely an entire hair experience, not just a cut. I highly recommend if you're in town you stop by and spend the time to get styled by Josh. He was an absolute blast, very professional, and made me feel confident in my choice of style. …

Never had a better cut in my life. Joshua does a thorough consultation before starting that just made the whole experience. He also washed/shampoo’d before the cut to sort out my mess of massively uneven random lengths of hair. The cut …

James is great : haircut is always consistently good! He uses a straight razor and makes house calls! Highly recommend

I can’t say enough good things about Elu Salon and my experience with Joshua! I booked a last-minute consultation and hair color appointment, and he went above and beyond to make it happen. From the moment I arrived, he made sure I was …

Joshua was too busy being rude as hell to even do a semi decent job on the most basic hair trim. One side is shorter than the other and there’s a random long chunk.

Firstly, the interior of the Des Lux is absolutely gorgeous & carries straight into the salon. As a stylist, Joshua is not only witty and great energy during an appointment but is extremely knowledgeable and honest about his thoughts on your hair goals and direction. I highly recommend and will definitely be back next time in town!

Love this dude he's great with my three year old never any issues with him being uncomfortable, and for a man with a beard he does amazing work! Great conversation and great atmosphere

Joshua was very attentive and made sure every detail of my haircut was in line with my request. Also, he was incredibly hospitable from the moment I walked in. …

Had an opportunity to book an appointment for my son while at Hotel Des Lux and it was a fantastic experience. The atmosphere was fantastic and really played upon the ritz of the Hotel. …

Seriously cool eclectic set up. James is the only dude I trust. He always crushes! 10 out of 10. Hands down!