Mrs. Donna! How have you been? I hope you're doing well! It's me, Clark! (that kid from Georgia,…read moreUSA who studied abroad at Vrije University in early 2023 & got a haircut every Monday, right when you opened) I'm not certain if you'll remember me, as you've cut so many people's hair throughout your career, but I'm writing now to share how much of an impact you have had on me & my time abroad.
After many trips to many different barbers growing up, and switching to the horrifying chain "Great Clips/Sports Clips" in boarding school due to lack of transport to better options (seriously, look up Great Clips/Sports Clips, I wish I could be there to hear your reaction), I've become quite fearful of trusting new people with my hair. Heck, I used to drive 2 hours to return from both boarding school & during university, just to see my mom's stylist I trusted. But you. Mrs. Donna, you are an absolute professional--a master at her craft. I envy how downright perfect you are at your profession.
Arriving at your place for my appointment the very first time, my hands were squeezing my bike's handlebars in fear of the ways things could go wrong, flashbacks of the Great Clips employees swirling through my head as I hopped off & locked up my ride. But after introducing yourself, washing my hair, and sitting me down with an offer of coffee/water, my tensions... they all drifted away. And then, magic happened. You not only listened to the way I like my hair styled, but you essentially read my head. You freaking scanned my thick hair & gave me the perfect cut, thinning it from the bottom up, nothing my America-self has ever seen before, let alone RECEIVED. My jaw was dragging on the pavement the entire way home, believe me. From then on, Monday mornings started to become my favorite days, and I eagerly awaited the next time I could swing back by.
Mrs. Donna, it has been an absolute pleasure to have gotten to know you. I loved every minute of hearing about where you've been, what you've been up to, hearing your stories, and what all you wished to know about the States & how I was raised. You're the best person I met while abroad, and I still think about you every time my hair grows too out-of-control. To be honest, I mustered the courage to write this review because I met a barber earlier today who, although a little pricier than you, did (almost, not quite) as good of a job. I've been avoiding writing this because I've never met anyone on your level, and I get saddened knowing I might not ever get to see you again. But he will do, I am in good hands. So here I am, hoping my favorite stylist & best friend is still living her best life.
I hope to once again return to Hairstyling Donna & Guy, but for anyone reading this, visit her for me. Everyone deserves the best. And my best will forever be Mrs. Donna. I miss you & wish you the best!
-Clark McDowell
