minor hair change

This past summer my regular colorist was on vacation.  It was one of those days when I looked in the mirror and saw only gray roots. How did they all get there so fast? 

I go on YELP and find amazing reviews for Ylo.  She works at a relatively new Japanese salon called Tokuyama in my neighborhood.  I have been going ever since.

I imagine the owner calling a meeting of his staff to review the salon's philosophy.

This is a very small, salon.  Not too fancy.  People won’t remember us for our décor.  So we have to make sure they remember us for something else:  our service, skills, and good manners.

You are all to be polite and make the customer feel welcome.  Always.  Offer them tea when they arrive.  Smile.  Even if you don’t understand what they are saying, smile and nod as if you do.

Never let them sit in a chair forgotten, waiting for their color to take.  Check on them often.  Make them feel as if they are your only customer.

Listen to what they want, but offer advice too.  You are the experts.

Never ever skimp on the customer’s shampoo.  It should last no less than fifteen minutes. Don’t ever get water in the customer’s ears. Massage throughout —that  should be the highlight of the customer’s visit.

I want a hip, New York vibe with Japanese influences.  I don’t care if you sport a blue mohawk or come dressed in ankle-length pants with suspenders and a T-shirt.  People come here for our style sense. 

And finally, I am making this salon affordable.  There will be no extra charge for adding shine after the shampoo, nor will I charge for a quick blowout after coloring.

I trust Lyo totally with my hair.  She advises me to soften my bleached out highlights.  I let her and then like what she does. 

This small, easy to pass salon is a gem.  It costs me $70 (not including tip) for a two-color root service, a long relaxing shampoo, shine and head massage, and a great blowout. 

There's no reason to see my makeup-less face, but my hair looks great.  Too bad I have no where to go tonight.