I gave Stranded two stars because I have two words of suggestion... BE ASSERTIVE!!!
After my stylist of many years left the area, I found myself looking for a new salon. Back in Jan. 2008 I read so many rave reviews about Stranded I hoped it would be a good fit. I had an appt with Michael, who's an absolute love & v. professional. We had a good long talk, he looked at the pictures I brought, we decided it would take two separate appts to get the natural look I was going for. First appt went very well. Several weeks later-- not so much. I was informed that Micheal was unavailable ( a little detail they forgot to mention when they called to remind me the night before) but that Gabby had come in early to help. Now, I'm not as assertive as I should be. Even so, I try to describe Michael's plan & the look I'm going for despite the sinking feeling in my gut ( I just now discovered a post about colour w. Gabby). I should have listened to my instincts.
Next thing I know, I'm swept off to a chair & am informed that I need three kinds of foil; highlights, lowlights & caramel. Oh and by the way "Your natural colour is a dark ash blonde". I try to explain that I don't want grayish-greenish or brassy blonde. When asked what kind of cut I want, I explain that I'm okay with trimming the ends for a neat & healthy look, but that I'm not comfortable with more than an inch or so. I try to describe a classic look & mention that I don't vary my hair much.... So she starts in with the foils, & the scissors. I start noticing a lot of hair gathering around the chair. We get to a stopping point & I sort of say; That looks like a lot of hair. "Oh, but we still have to put in the layers! " More cuttings hit the floor. Out comes the hair dryer; It looks a little dark in some places. "Oh, but the top layers are paler!" Doesn't that look a little gray to you? 'Oh, but you're an ASH blonde."
Three + hours, two+ inches & two hundred dollars later. I tumble out of Stranded with a "what just happened" feeling. I get myself to a mirror... My hair looks like somebody plopped a cancer patient's wig on me, one with fake gray-blonde hair. I look about five years older! I tried to call & re-schedule with Michael. When I gave my name they say "weren't you just here'. I explained that I would prefer Michael. "Oh, but if you're unhappy you should really go to Gabby". Why on earth would I go back for another round of mis-communication & someone else's styling? Apparently "Stranded" isn't just a clever play on words-- it's also how you feel when they're done with you .
If you re feeling brave & go to this place be VERY PRECISE about how you & your hair should be treated. Otherwise you may spend the next year or so growing out their efforts. Also, ask for Michael & don't settle. GOOD LUCK!
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