I was a client for several years. I chose to take my business elsewhere for numerous reasons. At first, the customer service was excellent. Over time, it was evident that the focus was the sheer number of clients, not "the experience". Some examples: Wait time on several occasions of 30 min+ (even when I was on time for my appt). Being left at the shampoo bowl for 30 min (on a Saturday) while the stylist worked in other clients. Constant up-selling - one occasion having 3 people approach me about the same special of the day. Inconsistent pricing & discount program - the elite program gives a discount on services, however those services are prices that are increased based upon the stylist you choose (ie, an "expert" stylist). Yes, the menu states that services can be increased based on your stylist - but they should be upfront in the pricing for each stylist. I also found that I was at times given the elite discount and other times not. Always ask for a receipt! Always check to see what services you are scheduled for. I sometimes found the wrong services added on. Example: rather than a color re-touch (new growth only) - I was scheduled for "all over color" - which is of course, much higher in price. On several occasions - the stylist would leave to mix my color - but would be gone for 30 minutes. I can only guess that this was to complete a spa service (pedicure?). Although my appts were with an expert stylist - much of the work was done by an "intern" (shampoo, blow-dry, style and on two occasions the intern assisted in applying color). All of the above happened over a course of time and left me no choice but to find another Aveda salon. Looking back, I should have left sooner. I'm 100 times happier where I currently go because ALL of the services are top notch. The new salon even gave me a gift card at their customer appreciation night for being one of their Top 100 Clients - Talk about service! I can't recommend Mars Venus to anyone.
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