What You Should Be Looking for in a New Hair Salon

Characteristics of The Perfect Place to Get your Hair Done

Recently, I had to make the decision to find a new hair salon. I was tired of the long waits and felt that my hair wasn’t at the place that I desired. So I began my search by looking on Facebook and Instagram. I happen to come across a stylist via IG who I thought may be a good choice. We chatted on the phone, I scheduled a consultation, loved the energy of the new hair salon, the staff was friendly and professional, so then voila, I choose my new hair salon. This process can be simple with the right amount of research and time you can find a salon just for you. Here are several qualities to consider when seeking a new hair salon.

Who Else Digs the Salon?

Your friends or co-workers can give you good advice as it pertains to the qualities of a new hair salon. Ask them where they get their hair done, the cost, the vibe of the salon and which particular stylist they use or recommend. Word of mouth is always a trustworthy way to know you have found a good a new hair salon.

Reviews and Ratings

When I am searching for a new hair salon, the first thing I look for is the reviews. The reviews tell a lot about things such as customer service, styling options, and performance. A salon’s ratings are a good indication of the type of service you will receive as a new client. Check out online reviews of the salon and check the overall rating. If there are numerous negative comments, naturally that should turn you off. Take some time to take it all in.

Social Media and Website

Social media outlets such as Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest have become a go-to tool for hair stylists and other artists to highlight their work. This means that you can quickly locate a stylist that does precisely what we’re looking for, based on their actual work. If you’re looking on Instagram, just search with a hashtag search with your area and the type of style that you desire. For example, search with #hairextensionsatlanta will populate a ton of posts that can benefit you in your search. You can also view picture and videos of the salon and its staff.

Location

The location of a salon is very important when you are deciding on a new shop. I prefer a new hair salon who has adequate and easily accessible parking. Do you want a salon close to your residence or maybe you do not mind taking a long drive to get the service you want? Also, consider the upkeep of the salon. Is it clean? Is it comfortable? Do you feel at ease when you enter the shop? You will be spending some hours possibly in the place, so, make sure you feel safe and content.

Chat with a Stylist

You can bypass word of mouth and go straight to the source by speaking directly with a stylist at the salon you are thinking about trying out. Ask the stylist about their expertise. Do they perform the types of services you need? How long is a typical wait time? What are their prices? You can get a feel for the vibe of the salon and the stylist who will be touching your hair. Another way to help you with you figure out if a specific salon is right for you is to request a consultation. I personally am a huge fan of consultations. Not only will you bypass word of mouth and go straight to the source by speaking directly with the stylist at the salon you are thinking about trying out. Ask the stylist about their expertise. Do they perform the types of services you need? How long is a typical wait time? What are their prices? You can get a preview of the salon and the stylist who will be touching your hair.

Pricing

One important step is to review the salon’s prices. You want to make sure that your hair need fit the price tag. Salons and individual stylists can vary in price, so take into consideration that just because a salon has inexpensive services does not mean they will do a half job, and if a new hair salon is expensive, this does not necessarily mean that they will give you the service and style you want. Choose wisely based upon your budget.

Chain Salon or Private Owner

If you love supporting small business or like to stick with the known big name salons, you can decide what type of salon best suits you. Aside from the economic impact of spending my money locally, I personally feel like a small salon tends to do a better job. I like the home-like feel and the one on one personal touch of a smaller salon.

Services

Before you consider making an appointment, get a clear understanding of the types of services a potential salon may have. Are you looking for a salon that installs hair extensions as well as a natural hair stylist? Are you looking for a new hair salon that may also do nails? These are all things to think of when you are committing to a salon. Variety and versatility are essential.

Convey What You Want

It can be very annoying for a potential stylist to ask questions about what style you would like and you are not able to answer the question. If you aren’t sure about what you want, you won’t be satisfied with the results whoever you select to be yours. Make a decision on the type of style, haircut, color, or whatever look you are going for before your appointment to avoid disappointment.

It is Up To You

Now you have done all the probing and may have even visited salons. You know what satisfies your needs so take a leap! I suggest starting off with baby steps such as a blowout or a trim and then move up to a cut or color.