Hello you beautiful sun babe, I’m so excited to see you in my chair! For many of you, this might be your first appointment into the salon. It definitely can be intimidating, and there are sooooo many questions on what you're supposed to do before you get your hair done. I thought,” why not create a checklist” to help prepare my guests for their appointments. So that’s exactly what I did, here is your Pre- Salon Visit Checklist!
What you wear matters, Keeping your outfit in mind is huge for your hair appointment. I recommend wearing clothes that you don’t care potentially getting hair color on. Even the best hairstylist, while applying your color sometimes can hit the collar of your shirt or have an “uh oh!” moment at the shampoo bowl. Also staying away from wearing hoodies or collared shirts. At the shampoo bowl they usually get in the way and most likely will get wet. Also if you want major points, wearing neutral colored outfits are great for the “after” photos. Wearing colors that don’t “scream” so that your brand new hair can be the main focus of the hair photos.
Wash your hair, There has been a ton of old school sayings “ The color will take better if your hair is dirty”. When in fact that is only a myth and not true in today’s world. Coming into the salon with dirty hair will actually make it harder to achieve your hair goal. Dirty hair can have product buildup, oil buildup and not lay correctly. When you come in with clean, dry hair, the color will take more accurately, you’ll get better results and tbh i’ts kind of yukky lol. I never judge or expect you to come in squeaky clean but when it comes to results it can make a difference.
Have inspiration photos, bringing inspo photos to your appointment is a great idea. Sometimes it’s hard to describe exactly what you want and showing a photo can definitely give some insight to what your hoping to achieve. I recommend 1-3 photos, any more can make things more confusing in the consultation. Yes, while having inspiration is great, please be open to the fact that it might take more than one session to achieve your desired hair goal and that it wont be identical but as close as possible.
Set enough time aside in your day, depending on your desired look, length and thickness of your hair sometimes appointments can run long. Having enough time in between social events and your appointment can make for a more enjoyable experience. If you have to be out at a certain time please tell your stylist at the beginning of the appointment. Some appointments can be up to 6- 7 hours depending on the service and desired outcome.
Bring a snack, like my last tip, appointments can run long. We don’t want to rush through our self care time just to grab a bite. Bringing a snack or being prepared and eating before an appointment will help keep you alert and give you some energy to hang through the appointment, Most salons have some refreshments but if you have dietary restrictions it might be a good idea to bring your own.
Keeping an open mind, and having patience is huge at the salon. At the end of the day we are working with chemicals and doing a lot of hypotheses. We can predict how things will turn out but they don’t always. Being open minded will help you have a better experience, I never recommend having your heart on one desired look but being open to something similar.
Be prepared to purchase hair products, of course you don’t have to buy anything you don’t want but I definitely suggest that you purchase some professional products. When you shop with your stylist not only are you supporting your hair bff but you're protecting your hair investment. Professional products help lower your hair PH, and while doing that your closing the cuticle of your hair so color doesn’t bleed out after every wash, and your hair integrity stays strong and healthy, maintaining that salon feel and look.
Be photo shoot ready, but for real lol. Wearing some makeup or having some cute sunglasses help make your hair photos look better and more professional. And plus, don’t you want to show off your gorgeous hair?? When the client feels more confident it shows through the videos and photos. And then you can re-post and share with your family and friends without covering your pretty face.
Pre- Book your future appointment before you leave! If you loved your salon experience secure your next appointment so you're prepared for holiday’s and other special life events, instead of scrambling trying to get in a few days before. Pre- booking is a great way to make sure you get first dibs in the calendar. Also don’t forget to tell your friends about your salon visit and send them to your stylist.
Reviewing this checklist will help give you confidence before your next salon visit. You’ll know exactly what to expect and be prepared for the best experience! If there is anything else you’d like to add please share in the comments. I can’t wait to see you the behind the chair ! Share , like and comment to support!
