LIGHTING UP BEAUTY & COMMUNITY:

FIREFLIES SALON

Audra Maxwell, the proud owner of the Eastern Shore Center’s Fireflies Salon and Spa has not only found her calling in the beauty industry, she’s also created a thriving hub of talent and community in her stunning salon. Set in a chic modern space, and with an ever-expanding list of fabulous services, her accomplishments add up to a shining example of what women can achieve despite the struggles most of us face. With beauty, brains, and a knack for business, she went from styling her Barbie’s hair as a child to a successful salon and spa owner. Her infectious spirit, obsession with all things beauty, and her commitment to lift others up in a space fit for a queen tells us that her journey is just getting started.

By Caroline Edmondson Photos Amber Jones, JonesAmberMichelle@gmail.com Makeup Courtney Matthews Makeup Artistry, Cocokat1978@gmail.com

With a loving husband, Hamp Maxwell, and three wonderful daughters, Dakota (Koty), Peyton, and Presley, Audra’s life is centered around her family and her passion for beauty. Her dedication to her career spans 17 years and has taken her to top-salons in various corners of the country that include Raleigh, NC, Nashville, TN, and Jacksonville, FL. Grateful for the vast experience and exposure to the industry in such thriving cities, she now proudly calls the Eastern Shore home. “Throughout the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside so many talented people, and have made some amazing friends in the beauty industry, but it feels so good to be home on the Eastern Shore,” she tells us.

From a young age, Audra felt a natural affinity for all things beauty related. “I’ve always found the beauty industry so energizing,” she recalls. “It’s just something that came naturally to me and I could understand it all so easily. Hair, nails, clothes…It was always so much fun to me!” Even as a child, she couldn’t resist experimenting with makeup on her Barbies, giving them makeovers and transforming their hair with her mom’s mascara. “I don’t think I’ve ever told my mom that—surprise mom,” Audra laughs.

Before owning Fireflies, Audra’s life was marked by twists and turns. She faced challenges like anxiety, depression, and the demands of raising children. But these experiences shaped her into the resilient and determined business woman she is today. “It’s easy to get lost. The one thing that I know is that all of my experiences have led me to where I am today and I wouldn’t change a thing,” she tells us.

Audra always had a dream of owning a salon, a place that embodied everything she loves about the beauty industry – the vibrant energy of a salon and the sense of unity within a team. “After pouring a lot of time and energy into a potential coffee shop, I finally stopped and asked God what I was supposed to be doing with my life,” she recalls. “I always felt like I was supposed to be doing more. I surrendered what I felt I was forcing, and things just started falling into place.” 

In a matter of weeks, she found herself purchasing Fireflies, transitioning from a co-worker to the salon’s owner. Little did she know that a global pandemic was about to challenge her new role. The onset of COVID-19 brought uncertainty and disruption, but Audra’s commitment to her salon and her staff remained unwavering. Despite missing out on government assistance due to the purchase date, Fireflies persevered. “I felt a lot of responsibility to the shop and to my staff—all while still working behind the chair myself.” 

Through the pandemic and even two hurricanes, the salon expanded due to Audra’s determination. The client base tripled, and the space doubled, illustrating her resilience and her team’s dedication. Audra’s approach to leadership is grounded in fairness and transparency and having experienced life as a stylist working under various salon owners, she understands the importance of balance. Still working behind the chair two to three days a week in addition to managing the business and employees, Audra ensures her staff has the opportunity to balance their careers and personal lives, too.

With a team of 21 professionals, Fireflies offers a diverse range of services. From hair extensions, volume cutting and curly hair styling to massage therapy, nail services, lash extensions, and full body waxing, they cover all aspects of beauty care. “We now even have a doctor who works part time doing injections such as Botox. We also have plans for expanding our spa services with more involved facial treatments. Their dedication to meeting the unique needs of their clients and their focus on results-driven treatments set them apart. After all, what woman wouldn’t want to be able to get a spray tan, manicure, blow out and Botox under one roof? Hello time saver!

Audra is proud of her team’s talents and their mutual respect. Together, they create a warm, supportive atmosphere where clients not only receive top-quality services but also feel valued and appreciated. As her staff aptly puts it, “we don’t just do hair, we provide complete beauty care.“ Jumping in, Audra adds, “There are many talented service providers in our area and we appreciate having the opportunity to share our skills when given the chance. We are so grateful for our clients.” Their hard work and dedication have been recognized through three Nappie awards, including Best Overall Salon in Baldwin. Taylor, one of Audra’s stylists, won Best New Stylist, and Audra was awarded Best Overall Stylist, too.

Warm and genuine, Audra’s passion for helping people look and feel their best is palpable. She believes that everyone has a story and that small transformations can make a significant impact on people’s spirits and confidence. Her daughters are witnessing firsthand the love and dedication she puts into her work. “I hope they see not only how much I care for them but how much I also care for the people who put their trust in me by working with me, and the clients who give us the opportunity to take care of them. I hope my daughters see that they can learn from their mistakes just as I have, and to keep pushing forward and never lose sight of their dreams and goals,” she shares.

Having created a nurturing environment for all certainly sets them apart. When asked what makes Fireflies Salon and Spa so special, Audra and her team agree that it’s the respect, support, and genuine desire to help clients look and feel their best. Clearly Audra Maxwell is not only a talented stylist and businesswoman, she’s also a beacon of inspiration and a true embodiment of how passion and resilience can make dreams come true. Fireflies Salon and Spa is not just a beauty destination; it’s a place of heart and soul where everyone is welcome to shine.

Fireflies Salon & Spa

30500 AL-181 Ste 240, 

Spanish Fort, AL 36527

251.626.0707

FireFliesSalon.com