Choosing the Right Stylist

A regular feature intended to bring those that are patrons of hair salons and those that are practitioners at hair salons that much closer together. It’s time to look into each other’s worlds and uncover a mutual understanding that leads to inspired, imaginative, and ultimately healthy and beautiful results.
                                  

Mindshair

by  JM       

Finding Your Main Squeeze (choosing the right stylist)

Good hair is universally-sought but can be seemingly elusive.  After finding the right salon, you need to find the right hairstylist … which can be as daunting as finding the right mate.  So here are three simple steps.

1)    Probe your Prospects

Ask friends, family, coworkers and strangers (whoever elicits hair envy) for referrals.  Check out online reviews of salons and stylists to shortlist your options.  Ensure the salon is convenient for you.  Research potential hairstylists on Facebook, Twitter, and/or Instagram to view their portfolio.

2)    Break the Ice

Schedule a complimentary (at least, it should be) consultation or (relatively inexpensive) treatment or blow-dry to meet, ask questions and assess ‘fit’.  You want to ensure the stylist can deliver and that (s)he caters to your hair type?  And, if you’re interested in say extensions, you should enquire about certification.  Share what does and doesn’t work for your hair and come prepared.  Bring a couple of photos detailing your vision.  That way, you avoid botched bangs or an unexpected bob.

You should also consider the following:

·      Does the hairstylist talk to you in a professional manner? 

·      Is (s)he confident and knowledgeable?

·      Does (s)he listen?

·      Are you and (s)he compatible?

·      How does the experience make you feel?

(3)   Tie the Knot

Once you’ve found your match, commit to a stylist-client relationship.  As with any interaction between two people, communication is key.  There needs to be trust and understanding.  That comes with time … and at least a couple of appointments to see if it’s working out.  The better you get to know each other, the better the outcome (i.e. hair that suits you, your personality and lifestyle).

 

Bottom line, don’t settle.  In the words of Joan Crawford, “… the most important thing a woman can have - next to talent, of course - is her hairdresser.”

Next up, salon etiquette, or "here's your hat, what's your hurry"