Here’s How to Become Your Stylist’s Favorite Client
Going to the salon is one of life’s great joys– for a little while at least, you get to be the center of someone else’s attention. When your services are all done, you’re left feeling good and looking fabulous and it’s all thanks to your stylist’s magic hands, some creativity, and a pinch of patience. Once you’ve found “The One” who really gets you (and your style, of course) you want to hang on to him or her forever. We’ll help you do so with these tips.
Make appointments in advance.
Many salons take walk-ins, but if you want to ensure your cut or color is done by a specific stylist, your best bet is to schedule your appointment in advance. This is especially important during busy seasons such as around prom and the holidays. If you know you’re going to need a trim and highlight for New Year’s Eve, make those arrangements by October. And if your stylist can’t accommodate your desired date or time, please don’t throw a fit. An easy way to ensure that your stylist is available is by pre-booking! Oftentimes, stylists will ask their clients at check if they would like to go ahead and schedule their next appointment. Say yes! Your stylist will be able to tell you their availability on the spot and you’ll be able to book accordingly without having to remember to check back in a few weeks.
Show up with clean hair.
If you’re getting a haircut, especially with a new stylist, he or she is going to want to evaluate your hair texture and note how you normally wear it. If you’re getting your hair colored, you’ll get better results if you’ve shampooed it within the previous few days and have avoided heavy or oily styling products. If your scalp is sunburned or irritated, reschedule your hair coloring or lightening appointment for after it has healed.
Say what you want and don’t want.
If you’ve ever gone into the salon and told your stylist that you “don’t care” what he or she does with your hair that day—and then were upset with the result—you’re definitely not a favorite client. Same goes for giving vague descriptions of a style you liked and then expecting your stylist to read your mind for the details. Instead, bring photos. Pinterest, Instagram, hair publications, and fashion magazines are all good resources for images to guide your finished look.
Be realistic about what’s possible.
It’s fine to dream big, but be prepared to listen to your stylist if she or he tells you a particular look will be impossible to achieve (or is unwise to even attempt) given your hair color, hair type and texture, or current hair condition. You should also listen to your stylist’s thoughts on the time necessary to maintain the style you’re requesting. If you’re a wash-and-wear kind of gal and your stylist tells you that the cut you’ve been swooning over will require daily blow drying, think twice before giving the go ahead.Show that you value your stylists’ time.
Show that your value your stylist’s time.
If you don’t show up for your appointment, or even cancel at the last moment, you’re not only being disrespectful but also damaging your stylist’s earnings that day. Showing up late and forcing her to scramble to stay on schedule is poor form, as well. Instead, let the salon know if you’re stuck in traffic or otherwise running a few minutes late so your stylist can utilize that time to prep for your appointment, market their business, or even grab a quick bite to eat. If you absolutely NEED to cancel, try and give as much notice as absolutely possible.
Pay attention to your stylist’s product suggestions.
Cosmetologists have completed extensive training and are required to take continuing education courses each year to maintain their licenses. If your stylist suggests a particular product—such as a shampoo specifically for color-treated hair—pay attention. Whether you want to protect your highlights or improve the overall health of your hair, your stylist can help you find the right product for the job. And bonus: proper haircare with salon quality products will keep your look fresh longer.
Send your stylist referrals whenever possible.
Tips are great. So are thanks. But referrals will help your stylist build his or her business. Be quick to hand out your stylist’s card whenever someone compliments your haircut or color. Leave your stylist glowing reviews on Facebook and Google. Share your fabulous new look on Instagram and other social media. You might even get a deal for sending in new business.
Leave your kids at home.
In our current COVID-19 world, salons must limit the number of guests in the building at a given time and your children will most likely not be allowed to accompany you to your appointment. However, even once this pandemic is over, it’s better to plan ahead and arrange for childcare. Not only will this keep kids from getting under foot, but it will also enable you to relax and enjoy your time being pampered.
At the end of the day, just treat your stylists as you would any of your other friends and family because most of the time, that’s exactly what they are– our friends and family. Show up for them like they show up for you time and time again. Are you in the market for a stylist who just may be “The One”? Our artists are always accepting new clients so feel free to stop by and see what they have to offer but remember, make sure to call and book an appointment first! Check out a full list of our services and pricing here.
