my new colorist

I was heartbroken when my colorist decided to move.  I'd been with Lico for over five years, the longest I'd ever been with any hair stylist ever. And our relationship was still strong. I'd have followed her just about anywhere. But LA was too far.

But Lico promised me she'd leave me in good hands. "You'll love Maiko; she was my teacher when I moved here. There's just one thing; most of the time she works at a salon in Soho." 

Lico worked three blocks from me. I loved the convenience. Maiko (also goes by May) works downtown (except for Sundays). So that is where I go today.

It's a quick subway ride. But every time I go downtown, I get turned around. First, the streets have names and not numbers. But worse, the streets start and stop and wind around. They are interrupted by other streets. There are parks in the middle of streets. There are triangulated corners where streets merge together. It's a mess. In fact, the address I am trying to find — 178 W. Houston — turns out to be located at 178 Bedford.

It's my first time at this salon, and it's clean, welcoming, and understated.  I like that the same person takes my coat, colors my hair, washes it, and then blows it out. 

And like Lico, May is ready as soon as I walk in. She is an expert at what she does. Has strong and good opinions. Is extremely pleasant. Gives great head massages. Adds a shine product to my hair without my requesting it. And does a superb job of blowing it out.

I am thrilled with the result. (The haircut is next week).

I'm so happy to have met May. I hope it's the beginning of a very long relationship.