I went here and had my hair color corrected in mid April. I'd previously had hair coloring done at two Aveda branded salons and spent almost $1000. The result was NOT good. The color was an orangish brassy mess. I initially went for color consult and then the service. They managed to save my hair. This would have cost me a pretty penny at any other salon. My mother is a retired Aveda hair colorist, so I knew what to look for as far as proper products and technique. The Brown Institute student and instructor explained every step of the service. It did take a couple of hours, but was well worth it. They are now my go to for hair services. read more

Brown Aveda Institute - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Mentor, Ohio

I don't pick up any of my products there anymore. The manager refused a legitimate return. Poor customer service.

I had a fantastic haircut with Avery. She was professional, super friendly, and so very sweet. She listened to what I wanted, she had vision in making it happen. She utilized her instructor and training to deliver it. She was wonderful! read more

**UPDATED REVIEW** - I normally come here if I can't get an appointment at the Strongsville location and I really need my hair done. Mentor is way too far from me to drive here often and I've finally found my ideal student stylist at the Strongsville location. Anyway, I was last here on 6 October 2018 and I still love the concept of Aveda. Students wash and style your hair for a highly reduced price. My experience last month was awesome because the student was good and professional. We had a great conversation too about how she hates driving (she gets nervous) and she drove to Chicago once with her boyfriend on the regular road instead of the highway...haha, wow!!! Come here for a relaxed atmosphere, free massages, free mini tea and water, and a good hairstyle. ***Remember to talk to the student that is styling your hair as well as the instructor to get the look that you want*** **** I came here for the second or third time on 6 October 2018. Reviewed on 9 November 2018 (updated review). read more

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I recently had an eyebrow appointment on Tuesday. Unfortunately, I can't remember her name, but she did such a clean job.

While Brown Aveda is safe for a pedicure or manicure (even though they use a polish that chips immediately) avoid them for hair - especially any form of coloring. There's one instructor who doesn't listen and recommends to the student what she wants, which would be fine if this person knew what she was doing. She does not. Went three times and another instructor had to fix my hair afterward. Finally realized all the bad comments I heard from hairdressers were justified. Sad to say this is a formerly great place that has gone downhil. read more

I have gone here 3 times now and each time had Makenzie W. Makenzie shows confidence and knowledge when talking about color and has done a great job each time! The educators are there to talk with the student before they begin any service and do a final inspection before you leave. Highly recommend Makenzie W. read more

Brown Aveda Institute - 3 times - 3 new looks - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Mentor, Ohio

If you love Aveda products and you're looking to NOT spend a days wages on pampering and beautifying yourself --- why not get the look (and the luxury) for less? (Ugggh, that sounded like a super cheesy radio endorsement.) If you're adventurous, and not skittish, and overly snobby....Brown Aveda Institute is worth checking out. I know. Most of you chicks out there are particular and CRAZY (yep, I said it) about your hair. I wish I could afford to be that way all of the time. But, I can't. So, I go to places like this to cover my gray hairs. And ya know what? They do just as good a job as anywhere else I've gone and it's HALF the price. The only drawback is that it takes a little longer because the educators need to check the students work, etc. I got a full head of black locks for $45. Mmmm hmm. And I'm delighted with how my hair turned out. I also got a facial and a hand/arm massage included with that. Very nice. If you need some work done on that head of yours, or your face, you should call them. read more

I got a custom foil and haircut. For much less than most salons, I was really happy with my hair color and got a totally standart haircut, no problems. My one complaint is that it took over four hours, since students provide the services, they take their time, so it's not for everyone but spending the time is worth it for the price reduction in my opinion. read more

I am a regular weekly client who is seen by a number of students. And, yes, I realize this is a school. That is why it has taken so long for me to write this review. Also, this is why when I book with a specific student and get "changed to someone I did not request" I go with the flow. It is about the student having a well-rounded educational experience. With that said and I hope this In January, 2022, at the recommendation of an instructor, my hair was highlighted by a student. Over the past several weeks, the Strongsville center director has had to put in place extra conditioning because my hair is so badly damaged. It is several inches shorter than it was before the color application. During the color application which was a retouch, the student used foils to color my hair. Today, after watching another student, I inquired to an instructor why the ends of the hair had been left out. It was because it was a retouch. This now explains why my hair is so badly damaged. The student who completed my student ran the color on the new growth and the hair that had been highlighted in April 2021. So, my hair looks like straw, although the student who does my hair weekly says it does not and the center director acknowledged that the student should have used a different technique to color my hair. I have what you call ethnic hair which although healthy at the time of the retouch which is not very thick. The retouch highlights were left on my hair for 2.5 hours. After the application, the student told me it would be an additional 1 to process on my hair, I questioned her but she reassured me that the time allotment was proper. After the fact, the center director indicated that a different process should have been used on my hair. So, each week that I go in, I feel like I am the "trouble client" who is complaining. In the meantime, my 12 year old looked at my hair and tells me how broken my hair is. When mentioning the issue to the instructors, I am placated and apologized to. In the meantime, I am literally loosing the length of my hair which was mid-back and is now at my shoulders (only because they do no want to cut what really needs to be cut). If my hair was cut where it needed to be cut, I would have hair at ear length. This is a hair highlight gone bad. And there should be something besides mistruths about the condition of my hair told me done. I have been a fairly consistent weekly client since August 2017. And no one wants to acknowledge the damage done to my hair nor is there empathy for my having had ethnic hair which was healthy and long which I fair may not grow back. As you may agree, ethnic hair needs to be treated gently. I sure wish that I could get some understanding about the condition of my hair and some good direction relative to next steps. I am too embarrassed to attach photos but would be willing to show the photos that I have and that have been taken by many of your students who were proud of the job they did when I sat in their chair. read more

I have been going to Brown Aveda for many years to have complete facial sugaring aka waxing. I made an appointment to have this service done today. Guess what, their receptionist only booked me for an eyebrow wax, not the entire face. This is the second time they screwed up. They said we can wax your brows but you will have to come back another day......fool me twice, right. They not only lost a long time customer but many of my friends as well. This beauty school has no accountability whatsoever. The owner was not present today and I'm sure she would have made an accommodation as this was their error...for the second time. read more

Brown Aveda Institute - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Mentor, Ohio

Went to Brown Aveda in Mentor for a 40 minute relaxation massage.(cost was $20 + tax). Service was a little slow, but I was offered beverages while I waited. Massage was relaxation, not therapeutic so no deep muscle techniques. It was pleasant and the student was efficient and had some knowledge if muscles and tension points. I will return. read more

I was a hair model for a student name Grace M. this past weekend. It was her first time practicing foils. I showed her a few photos of what I wanted done and she did just that!!! If you decide to be a hair model to help these students practice please be patient, it may take longer than your usual hair stylist would. You must remember they are practicing their craft so leave time in your day. I enjoyed my time at Brown Aveda (in Mentor)!! I am happy with my new highlights, I learned about new products, and all the instructors were very friendly and helpful with their students. read more

Brown Aveda Institute - My hair after my appt at Brown Aveda (Mentor) with Grace M. - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Mentor, Ohio

I went in for a haircut and received a complimentary mini-facial and hand massage. First off, my student (Jessica K) did an amazing job. She sat me down at her station and went over every step of what she will be doing and the products being used based on my hair (dry scalp issues and frizz). She is going to become a very good stylist. The main issue was with the instructors responsible for checking in at each stylist's station. There are various steps in the hair consultation - initial conversation before cut, first stage of cutting, check in midway, and final check in once cut is completed. The instructor is responsible for checking the stylist's work at each stage and giving the green light before they proceed to the next stage. One instructor was brought over to check out my hair and consultation before Jessica started cutting my hair. However, another student pulled her away before the instructor could provide an assessment and green light to move onto the next stage. I was disappointed by the instructor because it took another 20-25 minutes before they came back to give the green light. (The approval takes 1-2 minutes max.) The instructor should've apologized and either 1. tell the interrupting student to wait one minute or 2. let me know that she needed to attend to that student's case because it is was a time sensitive matter. As a result, I ended up waiting a longer time (20-25 mins) to get an instructor to give the green light to move onto the next process. Jessica felt bad but it was not her fault. I was a bit irritated by this point because the waiting time to be seated at the station was 30 minutes even though I had an appointment. An hour just wasted. Once we got the green light, She washed my hair very well, regardless of how long my hair was. She also did the mini facial which was nice and always made sure to ask if the hot towel or water was too hot for me. Another student, Carmen, helped with the hand massages. She has a great personality and engaging to have a conversation with. She noted my calcium deposits on my hand and pointed out where it was. After getting back to Jessica's workstation, the hair cutting began. The hair cut took a long time -- mainly because my hair was up to my waistline and she was not familiar with handling so much hair. I was not in a rush and Jessica made sure to check in and see if I had any time restraints. She was very thorough with her work - parting the hair evenly, cutting the hair with precision and checking back to see if I wanted it shorter. The long bangs she did suited my face very well and I was pleased with the results. Another student came over and did the makeup touchup -- she was very lovely & sweet and complimented my skin and features. However, I was not amazed by the work. The full effects of the makeup could not be produced because we already running a long time with the service...and the colors did not complement my skin. The blemishes were not covered well and the eye shadow was a bit heavy for my tan complexion. The whole process (consultation, hair washing, mini facial, hand arm massage, hair cut and makeup touch-up) took about 4 hours -- which is a bit lengthy, even in an educational setting. I was expecting to spend about 2-2.5 hours at the school. I understand that time is being spent learning how to cut hair, and that time was not compromised. My hair is long and learning how to cut and style long hair is a huge workout for a student. However , the wait times to be seated and from the instructor was inexcusable given that it was not a Fri or Sat when the school is swamped with customers. (I went on a Thursday afternoon (around 2PM) and only 35% of stations were occupied.) Plus I had an appointment to begin with. I could have cut off at least a good hour and a half on the wait time. Anyone with long hair who plans to go to the school for a haircut -- please make sure you have enough time to take a longer window. Regardless of the time, Jessica did an amazing job and with her precise skills, she will pick up pace in no time. Her work is very clean and I was a satisfied customer. Too bad I cannot give her a tip because students cannot take tips. You can buy products as a way to "show" gratitude for the service. Jessica and Carmen both receive 5 stars for their great work -- but Brown Aveda's Staff at the Front Desk and Instructors receive a 2.5 because there is no excuse for being rude and taking forever. It is your job to set a good example and you get paid to do your work -- whereas the students are paying towards your salaries so they can learn good skills and etiquette and become Aveda Certified. I am planning to come back here -- not for the instructors -- but for Jessica. Be weary going for highlights, or get a student that is in their final year that knows what they are doing. Some of the students overheard had no idea what they were doing or were apathetic. read more

First of all, this is definitely a "you get what you pay for" venture. I, personally, would never come here if I were getting a dramatic color change or some sort of intense chemical treatment... but that's just me. I had my hair cut by the lovely Savannah (she didn't have a name tag, so I hope this is the correct spelling) with some helpful assistance from her instructor. Starting off with my hair down to almost the middle of my back, we cut off about six inches so that my hair sat a little below my shoulders-- in the front, as I asked for a long, angled bob. Savannah definitely seemed a little confused and new to the salon aspect of things, but she never failed to be attentive and friendly, which I find to be some of the most important things. She took note of all the things I wanted done and did her best to inquire specifics, opinions, etc. as she worked along. While the cut was in the general idea of what I asked for, her instructor did have to come by and clean it up a little bit. I applaud Savannah for her wonderful customer service and I only hope that she improves! That's what this practice is for, right? Keeping in mind that these girls (and boys) aren't professionals and that communication and patience is key, I'd definitely come here again. P.S. My haircut (the consultation, head massage, shampoo bowl, facial, cut, final look) took three hours, so be prepared for a long wait! read more

I've been going to the BIA for about 4 years and have enjoyed many different services... From haircuts, pedicures, eyebrows sugared, highlights, and massages...just to name a few. I've never had a bad experience! Their students are always kind, courteous and professional. The instructors will go out of their way to make sure you're well taking care of, and you are satisfied with the service that was performed. read more

The thing is, it's a school. They're learning. You have to know coming here that it will not be expert level. I know what it's like to provide a service to people that involves skill which is gained through hands on practice. So I have to cut them slack. Quick and dirty: Go here for moderate priced "rub down", nothing fancy, good for relaxation, it was like a massage my man would give me if I bribed him with a meal. Don't go here for a real deal massage, bc you have tense/sore muscles. Not even in a bind... the long way around: I purchased a 60 min massage $40, there is no tipping accepted here. Everybody was prompt, efficient, answered all my questions and very polite. These massages are administer by students to obtain an esthetician licensure which includes facials, massage, waxing. This is not this same as a license for massage therapy. The student was very lovely and happy to do as I asked for specific painful areas needing therapy. Unfortunately they provide a massage mainly for relaxation, it was not therapeutic to my aching back. The student was eager & did her best in my target areas but did not seem to have the background in anatomy and skills in therapeutic massage that I require. I inquired on the massage education and was told it is the same as massage therapists but have a hard time believing that as an avid massage goer. Again it could just be because she's still learning... It's hard to know since I've never had a massage from an experienced esthetician. Unfortunately I won't be returning, although it was satisfactory, it didn't didn't suit my needs. read more

Will NEVER be returning. Went to get low lights and a BELOW SHOULDER LENGTH cut and the girl completely butchered it. I cried for over an hour when I got home after being at the salon for 4+ hours. The whole time the girl complained about the teacher always standing right over her watching her every move and how this and that is so stupid. I went in with nice long blonde hair and came back with an almost above the shoulder length, uneven cut. The back looks 10 times worse. I don't care if I have to pay $100 to get my hair done I will never be returning to brown Aveda. Wish I could give this place 0 stars. read more

Brown Aveda Institute - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Mentor, Ohio

First - it's a school. Have patience. Second - I've never had a bad cut. There is always an instructor on hand to guide them if needed. I've also enjoyed several of their other services. Third - Trevor cut my hair last Friday & I've had compliments every single day since. Thank you Trevor, I'm just sorry you aren't available evenings when I usually get my cuts done. read more

Will never EVER again return to the Brown Aveda after my previous experience. It has cost me a small fortune to fix the color they butchered. read more

First time customer and I had an excellent experience. The staff was warm and welcoming, the atmosphere was friendly and inviting, and my stylist Dee did such a great job! I don't live in the area (currently on vacation) but if I did I would definitely return. I'm extremely happy with my results! read more

The Brown Institute of Cosmetology in Mentor is the best school ever. I didn't even know it was there until I talked to a friend who told me she goes there now and loves it. They always do an amazing job, and the instructors and supervisors are always there, and checking/supervising the work. The price can't be beat anywhere, and those few complaints shouldn't be so crabby about going to a school, paying chicken feed costs to get the finast of products. I've never gone to a professional salon where I get the towel, the massages, and the fine products and professional service these kids in training bestow unto us. Five stars plus read more

I went here for cosmetology school I started in August 2010 and graduated September 2011. Loved the education, products, teachers, schooling system, full 9 yards, everything was fabulous. Wether your a customer looking to help educate students by letting them practice their skills and learning with hair or nail care, or someone interested in becoming a hairdresser this is the place to go!!!! I loved being a student there. read more

I've been coming to Brown Aveda for a few years now. I have a simple long layer haircut and haven't had a bad experience. Most of the students are friendly and outgoing, with the exception of just a few. The teachers pay attention to what is going on and offer sound advice to the students. I recommend this school. My husband and son come here for pedicures which are man friendly and we'll done. read more

Took 7.25 hours for my hair to get two different colors. Average 2 hours for a crappy pedicure that chips the next day. Not worth it