Finding the Perfect Hairstylist

I've had the honor of working in Beverly Hills as a hairstylist for over 10 years now. Not only do I work in TV & Fim, I own a private hair studio where I see my clients one-on-one in the luxury of a private studio setting. I've created this atmosphere because after working in large salons for so many years, and listening to client concerns about the congestion of the larger salons, I set out to make a difference in the way I run my hair salon, and tend to my clients here in Beverly Hills.

While a trip to Beverly Hills or Los Angeles may not be in everyone's travel plans, peoples' concerns are often the same; how do I find that perfect hairstylist? Honestly, it may take a little homework. Does it mean they're right around the corner? Not always. But driving a little further once a month or so is worth it to have the hair or hairstyle you've always dreamed of. Especially once you've found someone with whom you feel you really connect.

Here are a few of my top tips in finding your ideal hairstylist.

1. CONNECTION. It's important that you feel a connection with your stylist. There is nothing worse than sitting for 2 or 3 hours while having your hair done, and having nothing to say with the person doing your hair. This doesn't mean that if a stylist is quiet by nature that they aren't very talented; it might just mean they need help carrying a conversation. So, open a magazine and find something to point out and discuss. It's also important to note that many stylists concentrate on their work rather than talking. As long as you have some sense of chemistry, and appreciation for your stylist's work, I think you're in good hands.

2. CONSISTENCY. I call this loyalty. Bouncing around from stylist to stylist means you start over every time. You have to re-tell your story, your do's, your dont's, your preferences, and your hairstylist will never really know what you want or need. Everyone believes his or her hair needs are unique and unlike anyone else's out there. The truth is, we all have the same basic concerns. The more consistent you are with your appointments, and the more loyal you are to your stylist, the more you begin to trust him or her, and the better they understand your hair, your needs and "your story."

3. REFERRALS. Ask for a referral if you aren't quite sure how or where to find a stylist. 90% of my clientele comes through a referral or someone that has heard about my work as a hairstylist here in Los Angeles or Beverly Hills. Many cities have social and professional network groups and it's a great way not only to promote your business, but to learn about services offered by other professionals in a variety of industries. Also, when you are out and about, notice the hairstyles around you. If you see something you like, ask the person who his/her hairstylist is.

4. EVERY CLIENT IS A CELEBRITY. Find a salon that suits your taste and one that you feel comfortable visiting time and time again. At the Billy Lowe hair studio in Beverly Hills, I have made it my mission that every client is treated like a celebrity - whether they walk the red carpet or not. I've set up my studio to almost resemble a comfortable little living room, where the space feels comfortable and familiar. And the clients love it.

5. SHOP AROUND. Before deciding on a salon or a stylist, feel free to visit a few salons, ask for a tour, and a few introductions to the staff. Talk to as many of the hairstylists as you'd like (as long as you're not interrupting their time with another client). It's perfectly ok to watch them work, or ask questions of the owner or manager before deciding where to take a seat.

If there was ever an industry built on relationships, the beauty industry is definitely one of those. Clients share their most amazing moments with their hairstylist so establishing a bond is very important. There are many ways one can research finding a new stylist, but I think these few are very important. Enjoy, happy holidays, and we'll be speaking to you soon.