As a hairstylist, I can tell you with full confidence that the most important part of your appointment happens before I ever pick up my shears or mix your custom color. The real artistry begins during the consultation.

A great consultation is not just about deciding on a haircut or color.

It’s about understanding you. Your lifestyle, your hair history, your expectations, and how you want to feel when you leave the salon. When the consultation is done well, everything else flows more smoothly, safely, and beautifully.

The Questions I Always Ask (And Why They Matter)

Some questions may seem simple, but every answer gives me valuable information:

• “What do you love about your hair right now? -> This tells me what not to change.
• “What frustrates you with your hair?” -> These pain points guide the entire service.
• “How much time do you realistically spend styling?” -> Pinterest hair is lovely but real life matters more.
• “Have you had any chemical services in the past few years?” -> Honesty here protects the integrity of your hair.
• “Are you open to maintenance, or do you prefer low-commitment?” -> This helps me customize a look that grows out gracefully.

These questions aren’t meant to interrogate. They’re meant to protect you, your hair, and your investment.

What I Listen For Beyond Words

Often, what matters most isn’t what’s said out loud.

I listen for hesitation when you say you want something drastic. I notice when someone says “I’m fine with anything” but looks unsure. I pay attention to tone, body language, and past experiences – especially if you’ve been disappointed before.

My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, safe, and confident. Hair is deeply personal, and trust matters just as much as technique.

How a Good Consultation Changes the Entire Service

When a consultation is thorough and aligned:

• There are fewer surprises
• Expectations are clear on both sides
• The plan fits your lifestyle
• Your hair stays healthier long-term
• You leave feeling confident, not anxious

It allows me to work intentionally and it allows you to relax, knowing you’re in good hands.

How You Can Help Your Consultation Go Smoothly

Want the best possible outcome? Here’s how you can set yourself (and your stylist) up for success:

• Bring inspiration photos -> tell me what you like and don’t like about them
• Be honest about your hair history (box dye counts, I promise) -> I’m not here to judge, just to keep your hair healthy
• Share your lifestyle: workouts, heat styling, busy mornings, events
• Communicate your comfort level with change and maintenance
• Ask questions!

Remember: inspiration photos are a starting point, not a promise. Your hair texture, density, and natural color all play a role in what’s realistic and that’s where professional guidance comes in.

From My Chair to You

At the end of the day, my job isn’t just to make your hair look good. It’s to make sure you feel good about it. A thoughtful consultation honors your individuality, protects your hair’s health, and builds trust that lasts far beyond one appointment.

Because great hair doesn’t start with scissors or color. It starts with listening.

I’d love to hear about a time you had a positive or negative consultation experience. What made it positive/negative? What was the outcome?