In summary, I'm writing this review to let prospective brides know that there is a possibility the…read morestylist doing your trial won't be the same one doing your wedding day with Secret Salon, and in my experience, there was a complete lack of communication in this handoff. The stylists who did my wedding hadn't seen my trial photos at all until I showed them the day of my wedding, resulting in a look that didn't match my trial, my hair especially. Unfortunately, one of my core memories of my wedding day is the stress surrounding this experience and not feeling 100% confident in how my hair and makeup turned out. With all of the positive reviews of the Secret Salon, I didn't expect this outcome at all. I've added photos of the trial and wedding day for comparison. I was overall satisfied with the trial, booked in June 2025 with the stylist, Jennifer. She achieved the look I wanted and we talked through tweaks to make sure the style would last through the wedding day. She took pictures of my makeup and hair so she'd have record of it, and let me know that she would be the one doing my styling on my wedding day. On my wedding day in December 2025, the makeup artist, Samantha, arrived on time, but the hair stylist (can't remember her name) arrived late, and this contributed to the overall hair timeline of the day running late. I hadn't received any notice ahead of time that Jennifer was unavailable. When it came time for my makeup, I asked what had happened with Jennifer and that I hadn't heard there'd be a change, and the makeup artist didn't have further information other than a scheduling conflict. I then asked if she had seen my trial photos to know what I'm going for, and she hadn't and asked if I had those available. Thankfully I did and pulled those up and explained what Jennifer did at my trial and some elements we had troubleshooted. The makeup: Generally, I appreciate Samantha's commitment to getting my makeup "right" for my wedding day, as we spent extra time at the end doing tweaks. I'll add she did a great job hiding some acne scarring as well. This review isn't about her individual performance as I certainly don't blame her for the overall lack of organization. She saw my trial photos for a total of 10 seconds before she started working on me. But objectively, my concealer wasn't color corrected underneath like the trial with Jennifer and therefore looked gray in person. Additionally, the face makeup at my trial was soft and subtle, and she had a heavier hand with bronzer than I expected. Photos blurred both of these out, but it still didn't change how I felt the day of. The hair: At my trial, Jennifer worked with me to achieve the Hollywood waves I was looking for on my naturally straight hair. These fell out a bit through the day, but 12 hours later, I still had some waves. I'll start by saying that my bridesmaids and myself who wore our hair down were disappointed with the hair stylist. She simply wasn't as experienced as Jennifer, and it showed in how she handled my hairstyle. Again, when I sat down with her, I asked if she had seen my trial photos and she said no so I showed them to her. I explained the nature of my hair and how it requires high heat, hairspray, etc. to achieve a curl. At multiple points through her styling my hair, she asked me how Jennifer was able to get my hair to curl as my hair wasn't holding them. She was using hairspray and the same tools that Jennifer used. This question baffled me, as I would have expected them to have communicated ahead of time, and I wasn't told in detail what Jennifer had used. The stylist tried setting my hair in curlers for a while to see if this would help, while she finished the rest of my bridesmaids' hair and finished me last. She pulled our hair so hard to curl it that our heads were yanked backwards in the chair. When she took the curlers out and tried to curl my hair again, she said it wasn't holding the curl. But after every time she curled my hair, she was fully running her brush through the curls which knocked them out. I left with the ends of my hair curled, nowhere near Hollywood waves. When I got to the venue 15 minutes away, some of these curls were already coming undone. I asked my bridesmaid to bring a curling iron to the bridal suite, and they re-curled my hair. All the curls that they did, stayed. My hair did not look as polished and professional as my trial, and as I look back on my wedding day photos, I dislike any from the back because of this. I purposely pushed all my hair behind my shoulders in formal photos so the mismatched curled ends weren't visible. I write this review because the mismanagement was entirely preventable. It wouldn't have taken much effort to email me letting me know of the scheduling change. I'd have happily taken it upon myself to share my trial photos and notes with the new stylists. Since there are very few negative reviews of Secret Salon, I felt obligated to share my experience here.

This review is solely regarding the salon's communication and booking process. I cannot speak to…read moreits hair and make up service. I communicated with salon and its owner in August of 2025 to book hair and makeup services for my wedding in April 2026 for myself and a small bridal party (4 bridesmaids, MIL, mother). They confirmed that my date was available and provided the contract and deposit link. I paid the deposit and executed the contract. I emailed with Alice about requesting a morning start time, and then touch up services in the afternoon. Alice confirmed that we could do that, but there would be a fee for the touch up service. This was fine. And we agreed to touch base on the exact schedule closer to the date. On September 16, I received an email from Alice in which she claims that none of her team members are available on my April 2026 date (7 months from now), due to apparent "childcare obligations" in the morning. To her credit, I did receive a refund of my deposit. However, it rubbed me the wrong way that they dodged accountability with a very obvious cop out with an impersonal email obviously crafted by ChatGpt. In fact, several emails from them were heavily AI reliant. I understand that AI can be a great tool, but when it came to this, there needed to be some actual accountability. Wedding planning is stressful enough. Not only did the salon pull out of this contractual obligation with a flimsy excuse, they didn't even have the courtesy to point me in the direction of another salon/HMUA to reach out to. In sum, I found them to unprofessional and unreliable.

I had my lips done by Kathy in 2023 and although I've had permanent make up on my lips from before…read moreshe charged me for a complete new treatment and charged me $150 for subsequent touchups of which I needed 2. I needed my lips touched up for a wedding this year and although it's only been two years and it's supposed to be permanent make up she charged me the full price of $450. Then there was a glitch in her payment method. Her secretary called me in a rage saying that I should come in immediately and pay my bill. It was a Saturday. I told her that I needed to check my credit card account first and see if the payment went through on my end. In the meantime, they figured out the glitch was not on my end but on theirs. Rather than using a credit card again through the phone I sent her a check. Now if she hadn't been talking so much (which she does incessantly) she would've noticed that her machine wasn't working because she kept me sitting there literally for 30 minutes listening to her complain about another customer before I finally said I had to leave. Her work is not bad. She just seems to make sure that touchups are needed - charging $150 for each. I would not use her again and will go elsewhere for my touchup which I need because the initial job was not very good.

I originally wrote a negative review after perm brows done by Kathy, but the mutual friend that…read morereferred me told me she called her very upset so I took it down. But I don't want anyone else to have my bad experience. I originally made the appt for eyeliner and she immediately told me over phone, sight unseen that I needed brows too. Well it's been probably 6-7 years since then of dealing with uneven brows and regretting having them done. She used what appeared to be black ink which turned blue quickly. Every time I have a picture taken I am shocked to see my brows. The left one is higher and has a bigger arch. In fact when Kathy did my 'after' pic and looked at her camera she made an audible gasp, quickly switched away from the pic and didn't show me. (Note that during her measuring she said that I had a very symmetrical face.) After the brows healed a bit, I talked to her about uneven areas, including the inner brows not matching in angle as well as some ink dots that were abnormal. She was snappy in her response, even arrogant. Knowing she had taken that pic previously and obviously didn't like what she saw, I can only think her negative response was her not wanting to admit her work wasn't good or not knowing how to fix it. As a few other reviews stated, Kathy talked way too much during the procedure which were some intense stories when you just want to be still and meditate thru the pain and to make sure her full attention is on her work. Also, her instructions were vague and she didn't explain what to expect as far as follow up as part of the initial cost. I've since learned from other perm brow artists that it takes a couple additional appointments as part of the procedure to do little adjustments, so I'm not sure why she acted arrogant about me saying they needed some areas tweaked. I never had a follow up to see her. Due to her attitude I honestly didn't feel comfortable letting her work on me again. I've spent an additional $1000 trying to get my brows fixed, but it's pretty much impossible unless I have laser done which is costly, takes several months and can cause scarring.

I'm not entirely sure how I stumbled upon Adrianne but I am SO glad that I did…read more I booked Adrianne for my wedding makeup and did my bridal preview the day of my engagement shoot just so I can see how everything photographed and I could make adjustments as needed for the actual wedding. Adrianne was so warm and friendly, her makeup skills are unparalleled and she made me feel beautiful for both my engagement shoot and wedding. Adrianne was so amazing that I actually booked her for a boudoir shoot for my one year wedding anniversary. Adrianne has a way of enhancing your natural beauty so you still feel and look like yourself. I literally love Adrianne so much and will 1000000% reach out to her for any future beauty needs

Adrianne is the best!!! I had the pleasure of working with her for my engagement photos, rehearsal…read moredinner, and wedding, and I can't recommend her highly enough! Her attention to detail was exceptional, and she truly has an artistic touch when it comes to makeup. The makeup was flawless and lasted all day, even through tears and dancing. She used high-quality products that literally made me look like a walking filter. I felt like the best version of myself--glowing, bronzed, and confident! Do not hesitate to book her for your wedding or special event!

I just had my makeup retouched by Christy last night and the crowd roared!!! Seriously, even if you…read morethink you know what to do with your makeup, it helps to have a pro artist teach you new tricks. It is so easy to get stuck in bad and old habits and always good to have someone take a look and update your style every once in a while. I refer all of of my wardrobe clients to Christy. They are always thrilled and she is fantastic. After I help them create a new wardrobe, Christy finishes off the look with new makeup.

Christy is a very talented makeup artist who specializes in an all-natural look. I usually do not…read morewear makeup very often, but Christy taught me how to apply my new look: from using her light weight foundation to bronzer and powder. She even designs her own makeup line, which is natural based and free of any toxins. Ever since I began using her makeup, I noticed a dramatic improvement in my skin. Christy's workshop was very helpful- now I have both nighttime and daytime makeup routines! I will definitely return to Christy for all of my makeup needs!

I love Dana she is an excellent hair cutter and colorist! I have gone to her for about 3 years and…read morehave followed her to her new salon!

I had an appointment with Sheri for root color and trim. It was my first time at the salon. It was…read morenot busy but it's a nice clean salon in anice neighborhood.Sheri was very friendly and accomodating. I showed her my color combination from my therapist back east and she said she uses a different line of color but she would try her best. After the color she did my trim and did a blow dry. She said she was not happy with the color and asked if it was ok with me to go back another day. She didn't charge me for the color and I went back and she fixed the color. I highly recommend Sheri.y

I went to have my hair done with this beautiful girl, and I am more than pleased with the work she…read moredid! I said I want a little change and she did a beautiful work! I have received lots of good complements about my hair!!! Thank you Chakra Beauty!!!

Erika is amazing, I love my new cut which was a bob. During these times, safety is a huge issue and…read moreErika takes all the precautions that is necessary. I showed her examples of the cut that I wanted and though out the process she would ask if it was enough or wanted it different or things added. Super personable, friendly, service was outstanding. The room is private so it's just you and her. She is located next to Goodonya and Hansen's in Encinitas. Everything is cleaned and sanitized throughout the process. It was a great feeling to have all that hair cut off, I feel fresh!

Yesterday I got my first blowout at Pure Blowout and Color Bar in Encinitas with Angelo, and let me…read morejust say... the whole experience was everything. We walked in and were immediately greeted by the front desk, and the vibe inside was amazing. They even offered us champagne, which set the tone right away. Since it was my first blowout, I came in a little nervous, but that disappeared fast. Angelo was so knowledgeable and explained each step before he did anything. And his head massage? Honestly, beyond amazing. He was super thoughtful while washing my hair, checking the water temperature and making sure I was comfortable the whole time. Back at his chair, he was gentle while detangling my hair and very communicative about how much tension he was using during the blowout so nothing ever felt uncomfortable. Plus the conversations we had and his whole personality were such a vibe. Overall, I had such a good time here and would absolutely recommend anyone stopping by the salon to book with Angelo.

Jessie is the best l!! She is the only one that can blow dry my curly, Italian hair straight and…read morethat makes it last all week!! Love this place, and am now a weekly regular.

Lindsey! I can't thank you enough for the beautiful makeup for my engagement photos. It is now day…read more3 and my eyelashes and makeup are still looking perfect. Thank you for being a great listener and for being a total sweetheart during our appointment. I would be honored to have you do my wedding makeup once I know the date!! Thank you, Lindsey!!

Lindsey always does such a great job with makeup AND hair for literally any occasion! Every time…read moreI've shown her a reference picture for what fun makeup look I want for Halloween, Valentines, Birthday, etc not only is she spot on with it, but she makes it look even BETTER than the picture and I always get so many compliments after. She's also so fun and affable! If I ever want to get my makeup and hair done, Lindsey is my go to!

Working with Ashley Fierro Makeup was a game-changer. In our initial phone consultation, Ashley…read morelistened to my concerns from past experiences (I'd done 8 makeup trials prior!) and explained things in a way that made me feel understood and heard. She walked me through why certain products are used, provided options for my skin type, and helped me find the balance I wanted between makeup that lasts all day but still looks fresh in person. She paired me with Eileen for my trial, who was wonderful. Eileen listened to me patiently, made thoughtful suggestions, and created the exact look I went with on my wedding day. I felt like the best version of myself--elevated and polished, but still natural. She did an amazing job with my eyes (a big concern of mine) and found a way to make them look open and bright, which I loved. My bridesmaids were also thrilled with their makeup and we all felt beautiful and confident. On top of the artistry, Ashley runs her business like a pro. Everything from scheduling, contracts, and payments was seamless and electronic. She also goes the extra mile by posting on social media to celebrate her brides and sending a handwritten thank you note in the mail. Those little details made me feel special and showed how much she values her clients. I'm truly grateful to Ashley and her team!

Ashley, from the bottom of my heart, thank you so much for taking me on and being exceptional in…read moreevery way. I truly loved every moment with you and will always think of you being a part of the greatest day of my life. I got married on 9/19/25 and Ashley was my MUA. I remember the trial going so smoothly. She was easy to talk to and clearly knew exactly what she was doing. Sometimes you're looking for an expert, sometimes you're looking for someone you vibe with. Ashley was both. In addition to her amazing talent as a makeup artist, Ashley gave me recommendations for hair stylists and spray tans when I asked, created a whole day-of timeline for getting ready, had tons of tips for what was important and what was not, and became my stepdaughter's new best friend. :) Ashley was also transparent about a difficult situation she was in when I first inquired, and it never showed in her professionalism and preparedness. On the day, she took me aside for a moment to give me a chance to breathe - it felt like having a big sister there to calm you down. I was so appreciative of how thoughtful that moment was. If you book with Ashley, you will not regret it. She is an excellent communicator, is thorough and organized (without being overbearing), and I hope she is available to do makeup for me again in the future! Her associate was also fantastic - she had great energy and was checking in with Ashley to make sure they were on the same page. The makeup between the two of them was indistinguishable, so you can trust that if you need a second artist, like I did, Ashley will bring someone just as talented as her! Of all my wedding vendors, Ashley was my favorite to work with. I trusted her reviews (which were exceptional) and I'm so glad that I did. You will be, too. ;)

Absolutely Amazing Color Work by Tori! I cannot say enough…read morewonderful things about my experience with Tori. From the moment I sat in her chair, she made me feel completely comfortable and confident that I was in the right hands. She took the time to listen to exactly what I wanted, offered thoughtful suggestions, and explained every step of the process so I knew my hair was being truly cared for. The end result? Absolutely stunning. The color is vibrant, beautifully blended, and better than I even imagined. My hair looks healthier, shinier, and more dimensional than it has in years. Tori has an incredible eye for color and detail, and it really shows in her work. On top of her talent, she's warm, friendly, and genuinely passionate about what she does. It's rare to find someone who combines skill, creativity, and such great energy all at once. If you're thinking about booking with Tori - do it. She's an artist, and she'll make you feel amazing.

Em is amazing! The first time I went to her, I was wanting to go from long hair to a short a-line…read morebob and she crushed it. I went in today for a trim, with a slight more drastic angle (showed her a reference photo) and she knocked it out of the park. I'd recommend anyone to go to her, and can't wait for my next appointment!