Short story: I had a great experience, came out feeling very excited about an awesome new cut and color, and paid LESS than I was expecting. The salon was modern, clean, and comfortable, with a laid back vibe. Max was easy to talk to and very attentive. Now, if you're from out of town or just want to read more details...
Where to start? To give some perspective - I research A LOT before choosing a stylist. I want someone who stays current with cut and color techniques, who is professional, gives good customer service, listens to what I want, doesn't rush me, is understanding and patient with my pickiness, is confident in what they're doing, and has a place I can go to RELAX. I want a great all over experience.
So...
I just moved here and I'm VERY picky about my hair. I've had too many hack jobs on my short hair, and am not content with $12 Supercut hair dos. I don't mean to sound snobby, but again, past experiences and (yes) my personality in general has created me to be particular .
I've moved around a lot and so I live off reviews to help me decide where to go and who to see. Also webpages...both of which are in short supply here in Oneonta. So, I was hesitant to go to Brooklyn Boy after reading the previous reviews. However after considering Anne O.'s review (thank you!) - seeing that BB is the only salon in the area with a professional web page (I see that as being more current), and after talking to stylists at several other popular salons, who looked at me like I had 3 heads when I asked if they had people well trained with pixie cuts (everyone has a forte), I decided to give Max a try.
First off - He's not snippish; he's up front, decisive, and will give his honest opinion (like many, misunderstood NYC natives). His priority is to give each customer the best possible style and experience via good customer service. So (from what I saw) in Max's case, once he starts working on your hair, he doesn't stop. He won't answer the phone; if someone comes in off the street, he'll greet you but ask that you call or return later when he's free. Anyone sitting in the chair would appreciate that; anyone that is offended when walking in and being asked to call later, you may need a bit thicker skin. Also, as he's the only stylist there right now, I wouldn't think he can take many walk ins.
**Moving on - I brought in pictures of the styles I liked. He took the time to explain the differences of each and how it would look on my hair specifically, also considering the color I wanted. After he talked me through what it was about each cut that I really liked, I was able to make a solid and confident choice in what I wanted. When I told him I wanted my highlights redone, he asked what exactly I wanted updated, since I wanted the same color and the roots hadn't grown out much. He pretty much saved me money by showing me another way he could freshen my color and just get the roots without doing the ENTIRE process...so his priority is the integrity of his work, not just making $$ off you.
FINALLY (I know, I'm long winded) - he took the time to make sure I was completely satisfied with both cut and color. When I decided I did end up wanting to do all over color, AND have it done before leaving town in 2 days...and with my 4 year old son in tow (much less has frustrated other stylists), he gave me an app. for the following day by extending his salon hours and let me know it'd be fine for my son to tag along...though I (personally) wouldn't suggest that on a regular basis.
I'm very happy to have found a stylist here and would encourage anyone wanting a great style to go see Max! read more