Jen B.
Yelp
After several serious misses at salons that came highly recommended, my limp, fried, badly coloured hair was in need of nothing less than a miracle. Somewhat jaded but still hopeful, I submitted an enquiry through Windle & Moodie's website and received a prompt, detailed response to all my questions. (Another good sign; several highly reputable salons never bothered to reply or return my calls or were vague or rude if they did.)
When I went in for my appointment, the receptionist was warm and friendly and made me feel immediately welcomed. A personal pet peeve of mine is feeling sized up in a new salon, (which is unfortunately common, as we all know) so naturally, I was already impressed.
Jamie assessed my colour and almost instinctively knew exactly what I wanted without having to ask too many questions, though he was very careful to communicate with me and make sure we were on exactly the same page before getting started. We had a fun, pleasant chat as he fixed some horrendous mistakes made by a previous colourist at a different salon.
After that, MJ took over, very patiently and thoroughly went through all my hair concerns and neuroses without making me feel the least bit rushed or bothersome, then went to work. She would periodically stop to explain what she was doing and give me options for continuing, which makes perfect sense, but so few stylists have ever taken the time to do with me. She then showed me different ways to style my cut that look great and are actually practical and within my skill range. I can't tell you how many times a stylist either skips that part entirely or works their professional magic and goes right over my head, killing any hopes of actually being able to recreate the look on my own.
When everything was said and done, I left with one of the best styles I think I've ever had. I've definitely found "my" salon now.
Don't kid yourself: Windle & Moodie is definitely worth it. The extra details definitely stand out.
**Update: I decided to go back to a bobbed style I had years ago but eventually let grow out, partially because it was hard to find a stylist who could do it perfectly without making it look too kitschy. For precision cuts, Simon's it. Again, super friendly and fun to chat with and endless patience with styling tips. I don't think there is a less than stellar stylist or colourist in the place.