Oh boy, I feel like I'm breaking the mold with this one! I've never had a bad experience at this Fantastic Sams, so when I was doing my hair this morning, I thought: I should write a review. Just last week, I got a hair cut and color touch up, and wanted the chance to give a shout out to the awesome stylist who did my hair.
So, first things first: Mary is an awesome stylist! With an even more awesome memory. I wandered in last week, after having been here on and off for 3 years. I was only going to get a cut, but my roots were extremely grown out, and some highlights I had seriously needed toning. All in all, I had the "New mom, no idea how to juggle all of this plus my hair" thing going on. Anyways, Mary has done my hair before: I think four or five times total, but I could be wrong (again, my memory in that respect is horrible). She remembered me, remembered that the last time I was in, I was pregnant, and was extremely friendly about my options for touching up my hair on a budget since I have a new, little head of hair to worry about (and financially sustain).
After reading the other reviews left for this location, I wanted to try and keep it real for others who might be reading this: Fantastic Sams really pushes their stylists to up-sell. I can tell that's a big sore spot for some people, and I understand that 100%. It's understandable to only want a hair cut, and not walk out having spent an arm and leg on hair gels, sprays or waxing services. I've spent my fare share of impulse money on hair creams and serums, and some I wasn't happy with; others have become a staple in my hair care routine. Every time I've ever come here, I've been up-sold on something, and it might be fair to say that the methods some stylists use to up-sell could even borderline aggressive.
I docked one star for that. I would have done 5 stars, but I get how that could be an issue and even though I budget for impulse spending like that, not everyone does.
Beyond that, the salon is clean and has an atmosphere unlike any other Fantastic Sams. It dosent feel like a corporate, empty turn 'em type of joint. Mary, in particular has always made pleasant conversation and always takes my input into consideration. This most recent visit, she grabbed a book and went through hair styles she thought I might be trying to achieve. Eventually, we settled on one and she fixed me right up. When it came to my roots, she laid out two options: Go all over color, or, touch up and tone. She priced both out for me, was courteous of my budget, and we went from there. I left feeling amazing!
Over all, I always recommend this location for a quick cut. Others experiences clearly differ from mine. There's a tanning salon and coffee shop next door too, so you can make a pampering day of it with all the saved money (or, spend it on hair products, whatever float your boat!).
Ask for Mary, get a good cut, and have a fab day! read more