Going to the hairdressers for the first time since I was a child, really nervous and have some Qs

[hgffhnrfg]

Hi,

I've booked in for a hair consultation to have my hair highlighted/balayage and I'm really nervous. I haven't been to the hairdressers since I was around 10 years old, as I've always had a family friend cut my hair in my own home.

I've got some pictures to take in as I struggle to describe what I want - is that ok?

They asked me on the phone if I had a preference for a particular stylist and I said no, so they've booked me in with the salon director - is that a good thing as it means they will be the most experienced? As it also means the price is the highest. Will they give me an accurate quote when I go in for a consultation?

How do you tip and how much?

Thank you

Hi,
It will be good to go in for a consultation as you'll be able to make a decision if it's the right salon for you.

A salon director should have great knowledge and experience but yes this will reflect in the price as it will be more expensive with them.

They should give you an accurate quote and pictures are always helpful as they can explain whether they think what you want will work on your hair/is achievable in one session etc (e.g going from very dark to very light may need more than one appointment).

Try not to be nervous as most places should treat you well, after all they will want your custom. If you find you don't like the feel of the place, customer service wasn't right or you felt uncomfortable in any way, you could always try somewhere else.

Sometimes you can tip on card or cash, depends on the salon I suppose. I don't really know what the usual amount is to tip, some people do and some people don't.

Hi OP, its great you are going in for a consultation first! I'd say prepare to tell them:

-what your hair texture is like (for example wavy but you wear it straight)
-your current routine (how often you wash it, style it, etc)
-how much time you spend on it daily i.e if you want a low/high maintenance cut

Photos are great and believe hairdressers prefer it so they have a point of reference as to what you're looking for.

And yes they should give you an accurate quote - bear in mind some places charge separately for the cut and blow dry to the colour so just ask what the total will be.

Salon director is good yes - more expensive as you say but I have had the junior staff do my hair before and haven't been happy with it. So most likely you're getting the one with the most experience.

I usually give my hairdresser £5 but if I'm having a lot done (colour etc.) and its over £100 I would give £10-£15 (but give what you are comfortable with, it's not mandatory).

fine to tell them you're nervous as well, they should do their best to put you at ease and make sure you're comfortable. Enjoy!