- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Avalon Spa & Salon
Rating Details »
Categories: Day Spas, Hair Salons [Edit]
5141 Mowry Ave(between Blacow Rd & Farwell Dr)
Fremont, CA 94538
(510) 791-2885
- Hours:
Mon-Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Sat. 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
89 reviews for Avalon Spa & Salon
Got a cut and color today! Vanessa is the stylist I always go to when I need to get my hair done. She's sweet and talks to you, but not overly so. I tried going to Daphne after reading all the reviews about her. She gave me a haircut I loved, but I paid $60 ($20 more) for something I'm sure Vanessa would have been able to do for me.
I was picking out a color and she told me what would look good with my skintone and was also honest about what she thought wouldn't look that great. I loved the color. Now that I think about it, I probably would have liked it lighter, but better safe than sorry I guess. I just got a lot of layers on top today and I love how it turned out. It's definitely not going to be hard to style in the morning. One negative though is that she cut my hair after she blow-dried it and afterwards I noticed a lot of stray hairs on my shirt. Probably should have blown them away with a blow-dryer or something.
I've had 3 stylists do my hair since I've been to Avalon, 2 of which were set up with me by the front desk, and all of them were stellar. Unless you had crazy hard-to-manage hair, I think you'll be good to go with any of the stylists. I asked Vanessa about the training program, and she told me that they train stylists for 6-9 months before they actually let them work at the salon, so that they get used to the salon's way of doing things.
Never had a facial/waxing here before, but it's definitely something I want to try.
Front desk service is always good, however today I noticed they weren't offering people refreshments as they usually do. Not that it's a big deal, just noticed the difference. I had to push my appointment back 30 minutes and they were completely fine with it. So one star off for the little things I noticed today.
This is a going to be a rather long review, as Fred is my hair's new best friend. Seriously.
First of all, I did try going across the street to visual image salon beforehand. I was told I wouldn't be able to get an appointment for a couple weeks, and the receptionist couldn't assure me there was anyone in the salon completely capable of cutting curly hair except for the mentor stylist. Mind you a cut with a mentor stylist cut is $74 (yes, there are grades of cut over there), and the lower stylists (Stylist 1 and Advanced) ranged from $45 to I think $55 with no assurance they were experienced with cutting curly hair.
Thanks to the previous reviews here, I was saved from Visual Image and found Avalon and Fred. I have very thick, very curly hair, and not anyone knows how to cut it. My last haircut had been a disaster - the lady who cut it gave me two choppy layers, thinning out the bottom layer and leaving a ton of volume in the middle. It looked terrible.
Fred gave me a repair-cut. First, he washed my hair with a clarifying shampoo, then he cut my hair in a manner suited for curly hair (I felt like I had never really had my hair cut before). Unlike before, he cut it so my curly hair falls at a kind of gradient, so there is no particular poof at any part of my hair. He did what he could to blend the bad layering I had had done before (the bottom layer is still thin but there isn't much to be done about that until my hair grows a little more). After he was done cutting, he then blow dried my hair, and after that he flat ironed it just to make sure all the layers were even.
Throughout, Fred walked me through what he was doing and the products he was using on my hair so that I could purchase them if I wanted to, but at the same time he wasn't pushing me to buy anything. I even told him about my current curly hair method and he advised me on what products to use from there. Overall the whole procedure took an hour and forty minutes - so needless to say I didn't feel like Fred was in a huge rush to do my hair and get me out of there. It was a very different experience from the 15 minute $15 dollar crappy haircut I have become used it. If you think about the time, effort, money and quality - Avalon wins, hands down.
In addition, the atmosphere of Avalon is very nice. The salon is clean, and all of the staff is friendly. Fred himself is very personable and I was asked by several members of the staff if I wanted any water or coffee. The haircut prices start at $45 and never exceed $55, which is much better than places like, say, visual image.
As you can probably tell, I've already scheduled my next appointment :) FRED ROCKS!
First time customer, I got hooked up with Samantha. She's a sweet and young lady! I got my hair colored, highlighted, and cut. She did a great job!
As soon as you walk in the door, you check in, and the receptionist asks if you want anything to drink. Options are water, coffee, or tea. My appt was at 9am and I waited about 10 minutes before we got started. My hair took 4 hours, I was out by 1pm and my total came out to $190 but I got 15% off through a referral, so I coughed up $170 including a ten dollar tip.
*note: before Avalon, I had been going to Visual Image across the street. I have nothing against them, I just wanted to try something new.
I used to get my haircut and highlights at this place but now I'm usually there for a brazillian wax..I think the hairstylists are ok..I've gone to better ones..but I do like how I get treated once I walk in. They offer varieties of tea. And they will even serve it to you.. Great customer service is hard to find so I go back to this place.. Besides the price on the brazillian wax is not that bad..
Never go here for a mens haircut. I have been trying to find a good salon and this is not it. The person that cut my hair was horrible. She didn't cut my sides evenly and she barely touched the top. WORST PART IT WAS 50.00. If i had gone to a supercuts I would have gotten a better cut. And the person who cut my hair Jaqueline claimed she knew fohawk's well.
Serious waste of time and money don't go here if your a man who wants a decent cut trust me.
Damn this place is GORGEOUS!!! The atmosphere is warm and welcoming! Today I went for a haircut "Short Layer" style and my stylist did a very GREAT job!!! I TRULY LOVE IT!!! Shout out to "TANYA" She gave me some good opinion to see how short the first layer should be and the rest I let her do her thang!! She took her time to make sure that I look GOOD and I totally agree. She told what me what product I should use to keep my hair style looking sexy. Tanya was very easy to talk to! Also, they have GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE!!! Overall, this place I would give 2 thumbs up!!
I am a regular client of one of the stylists at Avalon. I normally get highlights with a very minimal trim (growing out my hair so I don't get too much taken off). I see the same stylist every time, usually very satisfied with the outcome.
However, yesterday I had an appointment for an all-over color and trim with my regular stylist. I asked her to please even out my layers since one side seemed to be much longer than the other before she got started and agreed to even it out. I told her I only wanted a very light trim. She replied, "like an inch or so?" I said "No, more like 1/4 of an inch, I'm still growing out my hair". After color was applied and shampooed out, she began to blow dry and style it. I had to remind her that I was there for a trim also. Not only did the color not turn out as well as I'd like, but she CHOPPED up my hair. She did not listen to me. She chunked up my layers on the right side, and on the left they are more blended in, and I still have about an inch difference of unevenness on one side. She set me back about 6 months of growth. The stylist was rushing too much, not paying attention, and very distracted from her life outside the salon.
Not only am I very disappointed about the outcome of my hair, but I am very unhappy about how much I paid for this service. I was charged $145 for a color and trim. That is outrageous! I normally spend around $90 for the highlights and trim on previous appointments with this same stylist. If I'm going to be spending a million dollars on a hairstyle I should leave the salon FEELING like a million dollars, not like someone just STOLE a million dollars from me.
I will be returning to this salon today to see if someone, ANYONE available can fix my uneven cut. We shall see....
I had my bangs trimmed here and my original cut was completely ruined. The stylist's decisions at Avalon salon were really bad because now my bangs are wispy thin and don't even lay flat on my forehead because they are so short. I can't even pull them back with a pin because that results in 1 inch hair chunks on either side of my forehead. I am going to look like a muppet for about a month and completely regret getting a simple bang trim here.
I love the service here!! Right when you walk in, you sign in and then they seat you in the waiting area. And they always ask you if you'd like some water.
For salon, I recommend Bonnie. She has a bubbly personality and definitely listens to what you want. I always go to her for my hair. She cuts them how I want them. She even suggests to go a different route and explains why she suggests them. She definitely eased my pain with her work-of-art when I chopped off my hair. She's my hairstylists!
For massage, I recommend Patricia. She works on you like nobody's business! She asks you what you are there for (back pain, deep tissue, knotted muscle, etc.) and where you need the massage the most. I have a real problem with my deltoids and she definitely takes the knots out. She's really great and definitely makes you fall asleep. Hey, what's a massage if you don't fall asleep. I've had a few where I couldn't sleep because of the pain the massage therapist was giving me. Anyways, Patricia is the massage therapist for me and she can be yours too!
For waxing and facials, I recommend Debbie. She's such a sweet esthetician and makes sure that you're taken care of. She definitely recommends products that you need, not just for her retail job. She eases your first time if you'd never had a wax job or facial before. She's one of the best estheticians I've gone to!
Location: Lots of parking and right next to a small cafe and BevMo. Nothing to complain about the location.
Price: I hear it's very pricey but to me, you get what you pay for. I've had a $39 massage before and definitely does not match to what Patricia does. I've also had a $14 haircut and I cried when I saw the results. Price is not a factor for me. Actually, I know a lot of more expensive places and by far, Avalon is a place to go to for price. Like I said, you get what you pay for.
I love this place!!
***This is for waxing only*** Great service, beautiful place and super nice people... BUT, and this is why only two stars - DOUBLE DIPPING WAX STICKS USED ON GENITALIA IS NOT OK!. The people at the front desk have no problem telling you that their operators use only 1 stick per person for bikini wax! The wax is by no means hot enough to kill all bacteria and viruses. You can get an STD or other disease from waxing. Instruments must be autoclaved at 250 degrees F in order to be considered sterile. So it boggles my mind why people here think it is ok to put a stick that has touched someones "bikini" area back into warm wax and then use that same wax on other people. I mean, come on, wooden sticks can not be so expensive that you would need to cut costs by using only one per person! So unfortunate because as a spa this place is so relaxing and nice - oh well.
I was forced to come here for a Brow intervention. I'd been growing mine out after an 'overplucking' incident and was ready to get my brows back in shape.
My usual place was all booked up and I lucked out at Avalon b/c Tiana was available for a walk-in session.
I was very pleased with her work. She did a great job of shaping them and still keeping them thick. She charged $15 which is a steal.
I'll be back.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
2/5/2009
I was so over visual Image and loved the fact that many of the stylists working here used to work at… Read more »
Like some of the past reviewers for Avalon I used to be a customer of Visual Image. After hearing about how Visual Image had FIVE stylists walkout because of how awful the management treated the stylists I became a dedicated customer to Avalon. I have only experienced haircuts and waxing at Avalon and every time I visit the service is always exceptional.
I'm sorry to hear that past reviewers have had rude experiences with the front desk because they have always been polite and courteous with me. I usually visit Avalon a minimum of six times a year and although I see different women at the front desk I am always greeted quickly and offered a beverage. The front desk has always called me the day before to confirm my appointment and has never made a mistake regarding my schedule.
Avalon is a beautiful salon too. Every room has it's own theme such as "Eden" or "Shangri-La". It's a very relaxing, candlelit atmosphere. The front of the salon is buzzing with all of the stylists (and there are many so if one stylist does not work out for you, I suggest you try another) Some stylists are better at cuts and color, while some stylists are better at doing up-dos for wedding. When I need something specific done for a special occasion I just ask the front desk to recommend someone and I've always been happy with their suggestions.
For haircuts and color Claudelle is great. She is nice, funny, and doesn't talk your ear off. Coloring is her specialty and she's upfront with you with what will look best on you and what will not. I appreciate how she is direct and you should be direct with her too and let her know what you want so she can have you look your best. She also has MANY years of experience and was a former stylist at Visual Image. I've had waxing done by Tiana and Renee the owner and they both are so FAST. Also, if you're new to waxing, tell them so. Both of these ladies have always made me feel welcomed and comfortable. I am dedicated a customer and will definitely be back to Avalon again.
My hair was in desperate need of a haircut. It hadn't been cut in almost 2 years, it had remnants of old color and the damage at the tips were so apparent that my normally shiny straight hair looked like a ball of frizz. I decided to treat myself to a birthday haircut and I made an appointment that morning and I was able to schedule one in the afternoon for that same day. I was paired up with Jessica who was really nice and friendly. Before we began she asked me what I was looking for in my haircut.
I'm a person about simple but yet versatility of my hair. I wanted something that I could throw up with a rubber band but have easy styling when i wanted to go out, not to mention bangs that could either be parted down the middle or off to the side. AND I wanted all the damaged hair off, while maintaining a good length of hair so that I can do the above mentioned.
So after chopping off some of my damaged hair, she took me back for a shampoo which was absolutely divine, I think I almost fell asleep. Then she took me back to the chair and snipped away. While working on my hair she talked about different ways that I can style and blowdry, I can add more volume, and the different products she uses (but not in the salesperson kind of way), and even tips. Which I really felt was helpful and to her favor I ended up buying some products from the store. On top of that, I ended up spending $50 on the cut, which is more than I'm used to but the experience and the end result was definitely well worth it. I will definitely go back and this time not wait another 2years.
I love this place! Vanessa has done my hair for years! She does such a great job all of the time! Awsome environment! I love the customer service!
Unfortunately, contrary to the other reviewers here, I don't think Fred is that great. I went to get a cut by Fred after seeing all of the really positive reviews about him. My experience wasn't the best. Let me explain.
I totally agree that Fred is a great person, very friendly, and projects an air of genuine care. When I had my haircut with him, I was initially very impressed. He asked me a lot of questions: about when I had my last haircut, what kind of shampoo I use, what kind of product I use regularly, my work environment (to get a sense of what kind of style would be appropriate), etc. My sense was that he was trying to get a holistic view of me and tailor my haircut appropriately.
But halfway through the haircut I started noticing some disconcerting things. He just cut around my ears and didn't seem to be doing any layering work for a more natural look. Another thing I usually look for is after a cut you should get a rinse, get blow-dried, and then the stylist should check to make sure everything is ok, no stray hair popping out etc. Fred didn't do this.
And after we were finished, I definitely felt like Fred was pushing product on me. I completely understand that the margin on selling product is high and we're all trying to make a little more money, but Fred's pitch was too sale-sy. I told him I use American Crew- he tells me that their stuff is a bit "heavy." Then I tell him that I also used Bed-Head and Redken, and he follows up with more negative comments. It's possible that I chose 3 products that Fred genuinely doesn't think are very good, but nevertheless, I had the feeling that regardless of any brand I mentioned, Fred was going to say that his product was better.
After I got home and took a shower, I noticed that my sideburns weren't level (one was near the bottom of my ear lobe, the other was closer to my ear opening). I ended up having to re-level them myself. Maybe it's just me, but I think unlevel sideburns is a mistake that any stylist shouldn't make... especially one that charges $50 ($40 cut + $10 tip)...
Well, perhaps I'm a bit old fashion, but I was not impressed with Fred. I do, however, think he's a great guy and a cool rocker, but I could have received a better haircut by a $7 barber.
I took recommendations from this website and called to make an appointment. I was 15 minutes early and then waited another 30 minutes past my appt time (6:45pm) before I got my hair washed by someone else. I was offered a glass of wine (I'm here for a haircut, mind you) and then sat in a chair next to Fred staring at myself in the mirror while I waited for his client to be finished. My wife was annoyed and went outside to sit in the car (more comfortable than those horrible chairs they have).
Fred was most apologetic and quite professional. I'm not bashing him but I reviews are just what they are....to grade someone's service. My haircut, though it took nearly an hour, looked little like it had been cut. I'm a no-nonsense guy and was not looking for anything fancy (I have Barney Rubble's hair) but Fred wanted to play. After kneading in some goop, he began to comb my hair into what I actually invisioned Hitler would wear. NOTHING like a 50-year-old conservative would look like. I was wearing frumpy clothes and a North Face jacket...nothing that would ring out style...but Fred thought I should look the way he wanted me to, and not ask me how I liked to wear my hair.
Now for the kicker: $40. Yup. A $5 haircut for $40. I tipped him $10 (to be kind and respectful) but knew I would write this review. He may be a genius to some, but he's out of his league when cutting frumpy old men like me. Tone it down, Fred. Some of us don't want posh, we just want our hair cut.
My wife, most disturbed by the time it took, never looked at my haircut or asked how much it was. I simply jumped into the shower and washed out all that goop (after all, it was nearing bedtime) and put my baseball cap on when I went to work the next day.
Great shop for those that like wine with clippers. If you are a regular guy that wants a regular haircut, go see a barber.
What was I thinking?...after all, they didn't have any Motor Trend or Maxim magazines laying around.
I have actually been here a couple of time but keep forgetting to review this place. I actually started coming here because the lady I normally went to at Visual Image Salon (across the street) bounced from Visual Image Salon, so I was like peace!
I found this place because it was supper close, and I am not really interested in driving out of my way to a salon somewhere else.
Anyway...I read the reviews and the raves about Fred. The first time I was able to get Fred and I have seen him ever since, minus this last time. I saw Sam, and she's good too (later on that).
Fred's awesome! He goes step-by-step, which is definetly a plus for me because I have no idea what's going on with my hair, not that I don't have a clue about hair stuff, I just am very laid back. I want a look that doesn't need fuss - I am a college student, C'mon! He's very through with what he does.
But this past time, I didn't see Fred - he is just so busy, so book in advance. But I got Sam, she's really nice, and was very easy to talk to - you don't really want awkward moments of silence. But she's good too. I am pretty sure everyone is good at the Salon.
My recommendation is, if you're hesitant about haircuts, or you're just looking for a new hair-do, and pretty much up for anything, I'd ask for Fred. But if you know what you're looking for, I'd say you're safe in any of the stylists hands.
Try Avalon!
I got my hair done for my wedding done here by Denille and the day of the wedding she did a great job. The place is really nice and kinda hip and all the other hairdressers that I came into contact with were really nice.
The subtraction of one star is that when I went here for wedding hair trial I didn't like the way she did it; it looked like Mrs. Garrett's hair from the Facts of Life. But my wedding day hair was amazing! and it stayed almost the entire day, some of the curls came out at the end of the night, but I was partying and it was to be expected.
i usually float around to different hair stylists at avalon, however i finally found someone im ready to commit to. hahaha. BONNIE!
+1: very clean and chich salon
+1: Easy to get an appointment, there arents any 3 week waiting periods. I usualy call a week before and they have openings.
+1: great service. Since this is somewhat of an "upscale" salon, some would think that it would be full of snooty girls. NOT HERE :) everyone here is really nice, from the receptionist, the stylist, manicurist etc. I coudl tell that everyone here got along and were friends. THey would even come over and help each other.
+1: they offer a variety of services. Its a one-stop-shop kind of place
+1: great hair cut from BONNIE. shes fabulous. Shes very nice and knowledgeable. She even teaches you to style your hair afterwards. She takes her time doing your hair just the way you like it and walks you every step of the way. I have really long, thick, straight typical asian hair and she made sure that i was comfortable before she did anything. hair cut was $50, which is a really good price, since it incluse, wash dry style. I plan on sticking with her from now on.
Can I give Fred a 10? I definately agree with all the yelpers that Fred is the best stylist ever! My BFF Joycelyn B. (hey girl!) referred me to Fred and now I am truely grateful. I don't even mind the 30 minute drive from San Mateo because I know that Fred will make my hair look gorgeous. My BFF and I now schedule our cuts on the same day so that we can show off our cute hair later that night.
I had a touchup and cut yesterday and wasn't sure what type of style I was looking for. Although this is my 4th hair cut from Fred, he always takes the time to ask me the type of look that I'm going for. He asks a lot of questions such as the type of work environment, lifestyle, how much time you put into your daily hair routine, etc. I usually go for the "Victoria Secret" layers but this time I wanted a whole new look.
I told Fred I wanted a cut which would take off all of the heavy layers around my shoulders. He pointed out a picture in a magazine and it was exactly what I was looking for.
Fred is very personable and genuine . We have the best conversations too. The great thing is that he also explains how your hair will look with each section that he cuts. Towards the end of the cut he always asks if I want to shorten any of the layers.
The salon itself is really nice also. The receptionist will always greet you with a smile and offers beverages and sometimes snacks too.
I definately would recommend Fred. You won't regret it.
Fred Mabunga is A HAIR GOD! I had the best haircut I have EVER had! He took my mess of a mop head and gave me an AMAZING a line bob! It is perfect for my thick ass hair and oval face. He really took his time to make sure I knew how to go home and style it myself too! You can always tell a god hairdresser by the way they flick your hair with their hands with product in them...! ;)
It is totally layered perfectly and not too short on the back... :) My husband said he didnt want to have to touch up a shaved neck for me ;)
The salon Avalon is beautiful, it is HUGE! I am used to a small salon with about 4-7 stations...I am thinking I saw at least 15 work stations!
Fred offered me a drink immediately and the shop actually had magazines that were NEW not those month old ones! yes, I know cheap thrills!
Overall the location was great, the atmosphere was hip and clean and I am STOKED to have found Fred!
He is fun to chat with, told me about his band Liquid Sky so now I am totally anxious to check the band out, as my husband loves Jimi Hendrix!
ill be back!
I like this salon a LOT!! It's very clean and modern and when you come in they offer their guests tea, water, or wine, which is a nice way to start any salon experience. The co-owner of the salon Renee is a lady that used to work at Visual Image across the street for many years. For whatever reason she decided to branch out and I am glad she did, because I would follow her wherever she goes. (Not in a stalker way though) For waxing, Renee is the only person I will go to. She is fast, clean and very sweet. When I go to her, I don't even need the complimentary wine to dull away the pain, it's that quick. Some other pluses: a heated table, mood lighting, calm music and a running fountain. To top it of I get a hug from Renee every time I leave, just lovely.
If you don't care about the waxing, they do hair, pedicures and manicures and you can buy all kinds of hair product.
This review is mainly about Fred. But it's also a little bit about my hair, from now on to only be referred to as The Fro (notice the caps, it's how you know I'm serious)
So I've been coming to this salon for about a year now. Before stepping foot in Avalon, the most I'd paid for a haircut was.. probably $15. Your standard barber shop treatment. As a guy, I really saw no need for those fancy schmancy salons, and to be honest wasn't sure if my manliness could take the hit.
Before we get into Fred, I'd like to make a quick segue into The Fro. For years The Fro has been terrorizing your local Fantastic Sam's and QuickCuts. It usually resulted in a stifled scream from the barber and quick frantic reaching motion towards the clippers. So for the first... *counts* 22 years of my life, I had a buzz cut, short.. low maintenance, but it honestly made me look like a monkey.
Then came Fred. Fred didn't reach for the clippers. Fred didn't scream. Instead Fred had a vision.. a vision of something that wouldn't set the chimps at the local zoo into a mating heat.
Fred took time, Fred slowly snipped, trimmed, texturized.. All foreign words to me. But an hour later, I emerged with a haircut that I was actually happy with.
He's a good guy, he won't pressure you into buying needless products, and he's a fun dude to talk to, to boot. (Ask him about his Jimmy Hendrix cover band.)
So Fred is the reason I'm willing to put down more than the $15 I used to on a haircut.
I have been going to Avalon since they first swung those doors open. I used to go to Visual Image and followed over Renee (facials/wax) and Denille (hair).
Every visit I have had there has been great. I get in great laughs with all the girls that work there. Everyone seems to have a great relationship that works there as well.
The price is the same as any other salon in the area. But, it depends on your stylist's level.
Denille has been doing my hair for well over 10 years. All my friends see her now and we are all very fond of not only her hair skills but, her kind heart. She is the type of person you look forward to having a few hours with in the chair!
Renee keeps an amazing location; modern; clean and fun to hang out at. I don't see myself changing salons ever!!!
Hmmm....
I've been going to this salon for the past six months for many blowdrys and flat iron services. I was super satisfied until two weeks ago, I went to my regular stylist because I made the mistake of having my hair re-bonded in another country and there was a lot of breakage. I asked for a deep conditioning treatment...I was already depressed and she had the nerve to make a remark saying "Well, if you lose your hair, I can fix your wig"...EXCUSE ME? I know she was joking but that was sooooo unprofessional of her. Never again. Buh Bye.
I've been coming to Avalon for the past few years now. Brooke is AWESOME. She cuts & colors & styles my hair and I'm always 100% happy. It's definitely worth it.
In the past, I have seen Rebecca for brow/lip waxing, and she was great as well.
The receptionists are always friendly. The salon is always clean. It's in a good location with plenty of parking.
As someone who hasn't had a professional hair cut in years, I decided it was time. I was paired with Samantha and she did a great job. I can only comment on the basic hair cut service, but she listened to what I wanted and told me what she thought would work best with my very thick, wavy hair. She was super friendly and really took the time to make my hair look good. I paid $45 before tip, and the appointment lasted about an hour and 15 minutes. As for the salon, the inside was nice, the staff was friendly and didn't have to wait to be seen.
I LOVE this salon. Vanessa has been styling my hair for almost 2 years and she does an excellent job. She always listens to me and gives me exactly what I want - never anything too extreme. I get a lot of compliments on my hair thanks to Vanessa.
The staff of Avalon is friendly and always offer something to drink while you wait (I love their mimosas!). I switched to Avalon after going to Visual Image for over a year. Avalon stylists seem much friendlier than Visual Image, plus the overall environment is much more relaxing & comfortable. Another great plus if you're debating between Visual Image & Avalon is that Avalon is cheaper - you don't pay extra based on the level of stylist.
This review is for the spa/waxing only.
The ambiance of the place was very nice with aromatherapy candles burning and low lighting. I enjoyed the fact that the spa is seperate from the hair part of the salon. But I think maybe too low of lighting for the waxing is where it went wrong. I went to Rebecca for a brazilian and while she is very nice and made the experince comfortable, I was quite disappointing in the massive amount of strays that she missed. I expected the few stray hairs to remain behind but it took me forever to get rid of what was left.
I get that nobody wants to stare at your nether regions but I am paying for hair removal. I would rather sit there and have a few extra minutes of pain that I am paying for rather than have to finish the job myself.
On the other hand, looking at the other reviews, maybe she was just having a bad day? Sucks for me.
I haven't gone to this salon for a long time.. but here's what I remember!
Front desk people were nice, offered mimosas, water with cucumber.. etc That was cool that they regularly offered.
Daphne cut my hair a few times, each time turned out really nice. My hair grew out nicely too!! The last time I went to her to cut my hair was in June '08 and around that time she increased her price $5 more than the salon price.. AND I believe she only takes cash/check! I only really go to her when I want a drastic kinda change-- I trust her in that sense. (I let her chop off 10 inches!!) Yay to her skillfulness, nay to the way she charges. She's pretty much separate from Avalon Salon itself.
Jessica cut my hair twice, both for trimming/layering. She did a basic, good job. No real complaints. She's super nice.
Saw Tiana for underarm waxing. I actually was planning to come in for a brazilian, BUT in my opinion, underarm waxing is a good predictor of how the esthetician does waxing down under. I was pretty pissed, she was running about 45 minutes late.. and all I wanted was a damn underarm waxing. I was seriously going to get up and leave, but she finally came into the salon. Seriously?! And check this, there was a client who had an appointment before me. Being the patient person that I am, I waited. Considering all this, I was hoping she would do a good job, but she didn't even remove the hairs from the root! And, she burned me because the wax was tooo hot, I had little spots of blood, my underarms were so pink & raw! Gross. Good thing I only came for underarms! The worst experience I have (over)paid for waxing. I could have gone to the store and buy my own wax and done it myself. Sorry but.. peace out girl-friend.
Be careful who you book your appointments with!
GREAT salon in Fremont. I came in for a color and cut ( Jessica was my stylist and she pretty much rocks my world) and am now here for the long haul. Jessica advised me on what shades would look best...suggest a cut...and I loved it all. When I came in the girls at the front desk immediately offered me tea, water, or wine...very nice touch...especially since I was coming from work and could use a glass of wine to unwind. The salon was very clean and everyone who worked here "looked the part'...as in everyone's hair looked great...they were all wearing black...everything looked like a high end salon. I highly recommend this place =)
I really wanted to find a usual place and stylist and I did, for about 2-3 years. I came to Vanessa for my cut and color maybe twice a year (cuz I became lazy and didn't always come when I needed to).
The last time I went really made me upset which is why I'm not coming back, but I'm going to also add that she's not a very fun stylist. I see the other stylists and their clients have good relationships, but after going to her for a while, she is just not that talkative to her clients (or at least me). Anyway, last time, I came in during lunch for a cut and color -- it took a total of nearly 3 hours because she was working on two of us at once and hey, I came in first. She told me this client was from Newport which is probably why she wanted to give her the good treatment -- big tip right?! That's my theory, I may be too critical about this, but I'm looking for a new stylist.
EDIT: I do want to add that she called me personally after I made a perming appointment and recommended I wait a bit since I recently dyed my hair with her and the perm wouldn't hold up and I appreciated that a lot. Also, the salon is very nicely lit and clean -- I'd want to go back, but my last experience sort of pushed me over the edge.
My first time going to avalon. I picked this place, based on the yelp reviews. My daughter wanted a decent hairstyle for her graduation. I fixed up an appointment with Samantha. My daughter has average length and somewhat dense hair for a teenager. She took little more than an hour to do the curls that my daughter wanted, but i was not impressed with the finish. It did look good, but there were stray hairs all over, that were not part of any curl. It was good enough to pass for a graduation i guess, but if you are a picky person like me, you would expect a bit more attention to details. I think we paid about $45. I think i could give it only a 3 star considering the price and the finish.
The place is clean and staff are courteous as you would expect in a top end saloon. Definitely better than Visual Image which is across the street, when it comes to courtesy and pricing. I would go back again and give it another shot with another stylist next time.
I saw Rebecca double-dipping during my Brazilian. I asked her why she used the same stick more than once, and she insisted she wasn't double-dipping because of these three inane reasons:
1.) "It's not required" (her exact words) to change sticks for each new dip
2.) She uses a different stick for each customer (using "4 sticks per person" total). Okay--what?? Changing sticks for EVERY dip is the definition of NOT double-dipping!
3.) "The wax is hot enough that it kills bacteria." Okay, if that was the case-- why not just NEVER change sticks? At least 3 other estheticians I spoke with so far have also agreed that what she said is a complete lie. And, besides, in addition to bacterial/fungal infection, I certainly don't want to contract a non-curable viral disease (HSV, HPV, HIV, etc).
She also had lied about not double-dipping on the phone, before I decided to book an appointment. So, regardless of her superb waxing techniques I had fully admired, I can't accept what she did.
Double-dipping in any form, especially on genitalia, is unacceptable to me, and it should be for you.
-
About Bonnie - Hair cut (3 stars):
Best hair stylist in terms of customer service, I've ever had. Caring, very sincere, and extremely helpful. I really felt like a valued customer. Didn't chop of 5 feet of my hair. BUT, she could not cut my bangs the way I had wanted, even though I explained and brought in 2 pictures *just* for the bangs. She was sweet to offer to re-cut my bangs for free, after they grew a little, but I am done with this salon. Also, the hair cut was too expensive for the result. Sorry, Bonnie. You were really nice, though.
-
*As for the reviewer who claims I am being a bit dramatic and that you can't contract viral disease from wax, please show me some conclusive scientific proof (honestly, I would really like some). As it seems inclusive now, I definitely will not take the chance on my own body. This review is only meant for those who don't want to be lied to and double-dipped on, if you don't mind those two things, I kindly advise that you freely and gladly dismiss my review in its entirety.
(I shortened this review for the sake of conciseness.)
I went here for a facial from a friend's recommendation. It was soso, it's hard to find a good facial around Fremont! I had to go home and practically give myself a facial.
But I decided to come here the following week for a shampoo/blowdry for a night out in the city. I don't know why! I was mortified. My hair was ruined. I had to run home and wash it and blowdry it myself! She said she was a stylist for like over 20 years. She didn't section my hair at all and she blowdried it upwards so it got all frizzy. Then she's like oh I'm a natural kinda gal so I'm not gonna use any products. At the end she douses it with hairspray. Oh and she's like I don't think I could get anymore volume out of it so she takes a huge ash curling iron and curls my hair like freakin Shirley Temple.
I was so embarrassed. I went straight home to the shower. I wouldn't go back here again. For anything. It does seem like a nice posh salon and some people seemed happy drinking red wine waiting for their appointments at 3pm in the afternoon haha; 2 stars!
I LOVE WHAT FRED DID TO MY HAIR... he is so great. He was so gentle and kind. I would 150% recommend him!! My hair was a mess when I came in but when I left it was a work of beautiful art.
Oh I'm so torn. I want to give this place 5 stars but I can't!
PROs -
Beautiful decor, relaxing atmosphere - chill in front of the fireplace (?) as you wait with some wine.. Stylist had such a great personality and attitude. (I'm so sorry I forgot your name)
Great cut and color - I really do love my hair.
CONs -
Price. I'm all for spending $ on the finer things - but I've never had a salon tell me that it will cost well over $200 NOT including tip for my cut and color. Never. I've paid that INCL. tip before, but never more. I was a bit shocked - but then again I realized if the word SPA is in the name - prices jump dramatically. I must say I could've gotten the same services at my old salon for much less. I chose to come here because I was tired of driving all the way to San Ramon since I live in Newark.
EHs -
I agree with another Yelper - the front desk gal wasn't receptive. Please smile, greet me warmly, and make me feel at ease. You are the first person I see when I walk in, so set the right tone. Remember I am helping pay your salary!
I actually enjoy going to Avalon for waxes. I have a glass of wine, sit in a relaxing spa waiting room, and by the time it's my turn to undergo the pain, I am ready. Rebecca is great and makes it go oh so fast. This is way out of my way but I keep coming back because it's a pleasant experience and reasonably priced.
Love Vanessa!! I'm kinda weird about my hair, and she put me at ease. She does excellent highlights and colour. I had never gone to a professional salon, and after a bad at home dye job I decided to seek professional help! She fixed my hair and made it look beautiful.
The only thing that gets me every time is the price. I suppose I'm just not used to it, since I had been cutting my own hair since I was a teen. I know I'm crazy!
But for real, every one from my work goes to Avalon, and you get what you pay for. Plus they serve bevs while you wait! Wooo!
Another Yelp find in Fremont and I highly recommend their services!
Vanessa did a great job on my haircut and highlight - it absolutely worked wonders for me. I tried a new look and everyone and their mama loves it. It could be a bit pricey for some but it's all worth it - the people here know what they're doing.
