Lifestyle Salon NYC — Local services in New York

Came to this salon with a groupon. Now, I know many salons and retailers look down on groupon - they feel as if they're losing money, but I wish more stores saw it as an immense opportunity to keep a customer- introduce them to your best and lock them in forever.

This was not that kind of story.

When I arrived, they asked for the groupon and scanned it in. I met my stylist. He spoke broken english and mentioned he'd only been working there a bit over a week (as far as I could tell). He worked VERY slowly and seemed really intimidated by the cut, which was relatively simple. I felt really uncomfortable trying to explain to him what I wanted and when - and he seemed to get frustrated with me telling him what I wanted (which is his job).

As far as the cut goes, he did fine. I had the best rapore with the shampoo girl. She was bright, bubbly and easy to talk to. She gave me some great advice about when to wash my hair, etc. but once I got in the chair - it was downhill from there.

He definitely over texturized my hair - it was lovely and thick looking and I understand he wanted to cut out the bulk and lighten it but it came out looking quite thin and I couldn't help but feel he went a little overboard with the texture scissors. Then when I asked him to flatiron the ends in front he started telling me about how that would ruin the body and not look good. Basically he told me what I wanted wouldn't look good. I think it's because he over texturized and now there's not much hair left there. Had he left more weight, flatiron or no, it would be fine.

I tipped him in cash cause I'm a nice person and then on my way out I said to the front desk lady - we're all set right - and she said 'no, you need to pay the sales tax for the groupon - it's $2'. I told her this would've been useful information when I first arrived and gave her the groupon as I'd just given the last of my cash to my stylist. She then answered the phone while I was talking and I asked if he takes card - she told me its a $10 minimum. At that point I was at a loss. I repeated - you really should've told me at the top - but then she said 'It's on the groupon' super passive aggressively. After seeing my reaction she waved her hand and said 'It's FINE. Have a nice day.' I said nothing, turned around and left.

First of all, really not pleased you gave me a brand new employee when the GROUPON SAID 'director'. Secondly, do all the billing at once - at the top or the end, whatever, but don't expect me to pay $2 cash on my way out.

Needless to say I will no longer purchase haircuts from groupon, or return...

I had a wonderful experience with Nicky (and in general) at Lifestyle Salon and I'll be going back! I love my haircut and glaze/gloss (not sure of the term) - my hair looks so much richer and healthier, and the cut is very flattering, low maintenance, and should be easy to maintain!

In addition to being really happy with my hairstyle, I just enjoyed being there - Nicky made me feel immediately welcome (everyone was very friendly!) and I really enjoyed our conversation. The stylists and other clients I talked to have all been working/going there for many years, and I can see why; it's not just about hair - the atmosphere really set it apart. This was my first time there, but it felt like being among good friends. I've moved a lot and haven't had a regular stylist in a very long time; and I dread trying to find someone new in each new place and usually put it off as long as I can. I feel excited to go back this time.

Also, I used a Living Social deal this time and that process was very smooth. Tips and the Manhattan fee ($2) are cash only, but for other services, you can pay with card (I also purchased a voucher for a future service); this was all clearly explained when I booked my appointment, which I appreciated since I don't usually carry cash. I think Nicky also accepted Venmo.

I'd highly recommend Lifestyle Salon and Nicky if you want a great hairstyle, and especially so if the people and atmosphere of a place are as important to you as how you come...

My experience with Amy C. at Lifestyle Salon near Union Square was nothing short of perfect!

Amy not only made sure to listen to my particular hopes and desires for a new hairdo, she walked me through the whole process in a way where I l felt comfortable and cared for. Her easygoing nature and unbeatable cut/color skills made for an appointment I would recommend to any woman in NYC looking for a great deal for a brand new look! She is very talented and was sweet enough to do my eyes before a big date to complete the transformation!!!