Gift certificate buyer beware! My boyfriend purchased a $150 gift certificate at Elle. When I wanted to use it to get my haircut, Michelle (owner) took the certificate and wrote "eye lashes" on it.
Unbeknownst to us, there is a "hair" service and a "skin" service at this salon. Even though I had a certificate from Elle, it can only be used toward one of those services, not both. My certificate, could only be used for "skin" service. Strike 1, I paid cash for my haircut anyway.
I made another appointment to use my certificate for lash extensions for the "skin" service with the other Michele. When I arrived, "skin" Michele kept asking me how I wanted my lashes done, even though I answered her numerous times. She also indicated that she knew that I went across the street to BE Beauty for lash services, her competitor. With that comment, I felt like I was being stalked, and I did not feel her questions were to make sure I got a good lash design, it was more to let me know that she knew I went across the street to her competitor. I felt so uncomfortable that I left the certificate on the table and walked out. Strike 2.
I tried to get the money back through the bank but was denied. Since I left the certificate on the table, there was no proof the confusion and poor customer service actually happened. Strike 3.
I spoke with Michele (owner) to ask for the money back. She explained the "skin" "hair" thing. I don't want products, I certainly don't want my lashes done there, I just want my money back. I explained that she needs to indicate the difference upfront on her gift certificate purchases with new clients, that if there is a difference her clients should know. My boyfriend and I truly didn't know there was a difference.
We agreed that Michele "skin" was the person who I needed to speak to regarding the $150 refund. She was to call me back, but its been over a week and she hasn't called yet. I'd be very happy to receive it via venmo.
If you buy a gift certificate here make sure it's for a service you want and can use. read more