I recently moved to the north shore and, unfortunately, I had to find a hair stylist closer to…read morehome. I had absolutely nothing to go on except the reviews on Yelp, and I gave John V a try. I was able to get an appointment for later the same afternoon I called. That's a plus because sometimes I just decide "It's time" and then I want to get it done that day or the next.
The salon is absolutely HUGE. Its primary business is manicures and pedicures, but they also have several hair stations, a massage room and I don't know what else. It seems to go on forever.
My basic cut/trim appointment was with Brandy. First, Brandy has a very personable, approachable, engaging demeanor. She took the time to really see what we were working with, she listened, and she gave suggestions that were NOT at ALL pushy or "know-it-all." I felt comfortable and like I could trust her with my hair from the start.
There wash was fine -- not one of those luxurious, massaging washes that some salons do, but she got the job done and didn't chat through the whole thing (I don't like chatting while getting my hair washed).
When she started, she immediately showed me what half an inch cut off looked like BEFORE cutting any more. From there, I said, go ahead with a full inch. She trimmed everything up, made sure things were even, checked from different heights and angles, and was very thorough and detailed.
I usually just leave a salon with my hair wet because I almost never like how it gets styled, but decided to let Brandy blow it out. I'm glad I did. For the first time in a long time, I really liked the way it looked. My normally long hair is barely touching my shoulders because of bad hair choices I made three years ago so I've been in correct and grow -- but first cut off more damaged crap -- mode for a long time. That's what I mean by not having liked it for a long time -- till Brandy shaped it up, blew it out and made me feel like I looked at least a few years younger than I've looked for the last year.
We did chat as she worked and I found her to be quite witty, down to earth, and enjoyable to converse with. Her next customers came in while I was there (I have thick hair that takes a long time to dry, so it was my fault she was a bit behind), and though they were clearly just customers of hers, everybody engaged with her (and me because I was sitting there) like they were all friends or family. It was cool!
If you are in the market for a haircut, I very much recommend your giving Brandy a try. (Of course, she does color and all that jazz, but I got only a haircut.) Prices are not cheap, but definitely not "Oh my gawd, are you freaking kidding me?!?!"