Welcome to Townie Talk where we sit down (or Zoom in) with a local resident in our community to get the inside scoop and find out why …out of all the places in the world and in Greater Derry, New Hampshire, they chose their specific town. Their opinions are their own. So, if you disagree about their favorite spots, you’ll just have to battle it out on social media in your local townie Facebook Group … j/k! We use “kind words” here at Macaroni Kid.
We have several townie rankings at Mac Kid, and Samantha Pisani is a True Townie. She grew up in Atkinson where her extended family still lives. She and her husband Ross recently bought land in Salem, only ten minutes from downtown. Maybe Sam is a double townie loving both communities. Her business, Salon Pure, is in Salem, and she wouldn’t change a thing.
Image credit: Rebekah Kay Photography
In her own words:
Macaroni Kid: Samantha, what is it about your towns that you love?
Samantha: Salem has easy access to everything. It’s perfect for my business. Our new craftsman style house in Salem will be in a quiet area, still accessible to everything. I grew up here. I love it. My mom lives in Salem, and we’re staying with her until the house is ready.
MK: What local family-friendly spots in town can you not live without?
Sam: Our family is me, Ross, and our two boxers Leroy and Leilani (named for our honeymoon in Hawaii.) We walk the Rail Trail. It’s completely re-done, paved and goes right near the Tuscan Village. And there’s an ice cream shop along the way.
Also, America’s Stonehenge is amazing, a great place to learn something about history and Native Americans.
MK: We know you opened your own salon recently. Tell us about it!
Sam: During the pandemic (when salons were closed), I really missed working with other hairdressers, so I did something about it. I found the perfect place for my own salon on the second floor in an area all windows, full of natural light. That was 18 months ago. Since then we’ve added six chairs. There’s always demand for the beauty industry. I love the salon because we are all like a family. Even our clients can feel that atmosphere. They feel free just to drop in to say hi or grab a bottle of water.
MK: What trends do you see in hair styles now?
Sam: Our clients want movement in hair. Color is dimensional meaning that even a brunette can have different shades in her hair. We specialize in hair color, and we do a lot of extensions. My business is called Salon Pure, because having healthy hair is very important. If you use a hot dryer or curling iron, you need a protectant to prevent heat damage. A good shampoo and conditioner are key. It is all part of a clean lifestyle. We use products that are gluten free for sensitive skin and sulfate free, too.
MK: You’ve lived in this area all your life. What local businesses do you suggest checking out?
Sam: Dreamscape Development and Remodeling in Hampstead. They are building our house. Ken and Steve are amazing. Everything can be custom.
Our favorite restaurant is Trattoria Amalfi. I love the chicken and eggplant dish. We go there so much that they named another dish on the menu after me. I can’t describe it, but it’s just called the Samantha Special. Fantastic.
The Black Water Grill has live entertainment and is great for big parties. BWG Chicken Crunch is their signature dish. It’s chicken fingers coated with Captain Crunch Cereal ™.
For shopping Willow, interior design and boutique clothing, is a female owned business in Windham. I like to find unique clothing there, so I don’t see my clothes on everyone.
And then for a healthy lifestyle there’s C. Wickson, also in Windham. It has small classes, so you feel really comfortable. They use the C_Method for total healthy fitness.
MK: Thank you, Sam. You are the perfect Townie, and we wish you the best in your new home.
Samantha's Favorite Businesses:
Salon Pure: Sam’s salon!! Treat yourself to a beautification experience like no other.
Dreamscape Development: Custom contracting and building services.
Trattoria Amalfi: Restaurant featuring authentic Italian cuisine.
Black Water Grill: Relaxed restaurant setting with a great atmosphere and live music!
Tuscan Village: Shopping, dining, and more!
Willow by B Designs: Beautiful home decor and fashion pieces!
C. Wickson Studio: Offers various workout classes for all skill levels.
Windham to Salem Rail Trail: 4.3 mile trail.
America’s Stonehenge: A historical Native American landmark!
Rebekah Kay Photography: Specializing in emotions, focused on moments, creating heirlooms, telling your story!
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