Searching Serendipity — Local services in Manchester

I’m so sad to have to edit my review. My first 2 experiences were wonderful. I really thought this was going to be my lifelong salon…

At my 2nd haircut, I asked about partial highlights. She described them, I liked the idea, and said I was relieved because I couldn’t afford full highlights right now, but the partial sounded perfect anyway. She said she understood what I wanted and “could make it work with my budget.” I mentioned l that I had to stop working due to chronic illness, but with online sales and focus groups was able to get my family Christmas presents and still give myself this little treat. I booked the partial highlights for 2-3 weeks out was so excited.

That day, I show up for my 10am appointment to a locked door. I knock. I call, no answer, leave a voicemail. I send an Instagram message, and a couple minutes later get “door is open now.” I head in, there’s no “sorry about that!” but I shrug it off and sit. I wait for a while, they’re putting boxes away or something. Then we start my hair. I mention that I had trouble finding pics of the difference between full/partial, so I wasn’t sure which my examples were, but I liked the colors and trust she’ll make it great. I mention that I’m aware it will cost extra because my hair is long and needs more product, but my fiancé was kind enough to give me the $90 as a christmas gift, and I would just cover the extra-product-upcharge.

After mixing, applying, mixing more, applying more, my hair is full of foil and while waiting, I have to use the bathroom. I’m told “someone is in there” - it’s an employee’s kid, who had been laying under the other salon chair with a tablet up to this point. Whatev, things happen and he had to be there. But 10 minutes go by. 10 more. It’s painful, this being one of my medical issues. I go sit by the bathroom so it’s clear I’m waiting. I can hear the tablet and I’m like please god, tell me he’s not just chilling watching it. Another 10 minutes. “He’s still in there?” I say yes. Nothing. Finally, I’m on the verge of tears and stand up to run outside because it’s been nearly 40 minutes, and the employee pauses with her client and goes into the bathroom to chase him out.

If that was it, I wouldn’t post this. I’m just adding all the details. After…an hour and a half with the foils?…she goes to rinse it. Puts shampoo in my hair. And starts trying to comb it out. Pulling, tugging, getting stuck. Seemed weird, combing shampoo through my just processed hair. I keep my mouth shut though, I’m not the professional. After a long and painful time of ripping through knots (my wash/combing for 2 haircuts were sooo gentle), rinse, conditioner, rinse, back in the chair. Waiting. She returns to blow dry my hair. It’s dry, but there’s more blowing…brushing, blowing…DONE. The color looks great.

Relieved to be done, aching all over, I look at my watch and am floored. 4 and a half hours. I go to pay and ask the total…”$350.” I nearly fainted. “For a partial??” “She gave you WAY more than a partial, she went over time with you a lot.” I say “I never asked her to!” She offered to go get her, but the other client had already been waiting a very long time. Not wanting any trouble, I stupidly paid and tipped $20, and drove home crying.

I waited until after the holidays to message and express how confused and hurt I was - screenshots attached. I never received a reply after my last message, and it’s been 2 months so I don’t think I will. So despite asking for partial, booking an appointment that says “partial”, stating I can only afford partial, being assured partial would give some dimension while staying within budget…showing pictures and saying “idk if these are partial, I think so? But I like the color” is okay to interpret as “make me look like this no matter what it takes.” I don’t believe that. The lack of a sincere apology or understanding, trying to shift the focus to results instead of my actual issue, on top of all of the other weirdness that day…idk, I hope $350 was worth losing a regular...

Details is a wonderful salon boutique. Bobbi isan outstanding colorist. I always get tons of compliments about my hair color. Her cuts are also excellent. Angelina does my manicures and pedicures. I leave her chair feeling relaxed and invigorated at the same time. Karen is their massage therapist who is very knowledgeable and compassionate. I have very complicated issues with my back. Her work has made a huge difference in my quality of life. The boutique area is full of one of a kind items that you won't find anywhere else. They are made by local crafters or ate fair trade imports, including the clothing. Last, but not least is the Blue Lotus tea bar. Delicious! Above all, the staff is friendly and helpful. They treat everyone like dear friends. Give them a try. You will be...

At the salon and boutique you aren't a customer but family. Bobbi is an amazing stylist and a complete artist with color. I wouldn't trust my hair to anyone else. The mani & pedis are pure relaxation. I absolutely love the handmade scrubs and lotions. The "crack" cream can be used on dry heels, hands or lips. Sometimes I even use it as pomade. The boutique has helped furnish my home with beautiful and unique items. I purchased most of my jewelry from here and whenever I wear a piece of their clothing, I always get compliments. I cannot reccomend salon and boutique enough. I even have...