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Aveda Institute of Denver
Categories: Education Specialty Schools Cosmetology Schools Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Cosmetology Schools, Hair Salons [Edit]
700 16th StDenver, CO 80202
Neighborhoods: Northwest, CBD
(303) 567-7500
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 9 am - 7 pm
Sat 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Kids:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
39 reviews for Aveda Institute of Denver
39 reviews in English
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Review from Robin C.
5/6/2012
Love the Aveda Institute! Here are some recaps from my visit.
1. Texts. I got a total of 4 text messages welcoming me to the text service and reminding me of my appointment. At least I wasn't going to forget.
2. 15 minute grace period. I was running late from the hours of waiting for a table at Snooze. I called Aveda and they hold your appointment for 15 minutes. I arrived about 13 minutes late for my appt., and the staff was very nice and didn't make me feel bad at all.
3. Aromatherapy. Aveda is all about the smells with their comfort tea, essential oil aromas, and addicting products. You get to customize your facial with your choice of 4 scents.
4. Awesome facial. For $35 you get an hour custom facial and a mini massage. My student was graduating in a month so I would have paid at least double for this same service.
5. Wax. A little nervous to get a Brazilian here, but it was the most painless wax I've ever had. It did take about 6 times longer than any other wax, but for $45 the hair-free experience was worth it.
6. $50 gift certificate. If you're a new student, you get up to a $50 credit towards future services if you purchase $50 worth of products (matched dollar for dollar up to $50). The certificate expires 2 months later, but if you're planning on coming back anyway, it's like getting free product.
7. Time. As everyone notes, do not expect to get out of here quickly. I booked 2 services and was there from 1:45 - 4:30.
Looking forward to returning to the Aveda Institute! -
Review from Anna T.
Denver, CO
11/29/2011
I got my hair cut at the Aveda Institute downtown. The salon is for students of the institute to get real world practice. Evaluators check in to make sure they are doing things correctly. For example, after my hair was cut, the evaluator came to ensure the length was even. Before the hair cut, I was given a scalp massage and had a hand massage when it was finished.
A downside to the salon is that it takes FOREVER! Make sure you have a good hour and a half to devote to getting your hair cut.
Because students are getting your hair, it only costs $15. I took the light rail downtown to my appointment, so it actually cost me $19.50. Worth it if you have the time! -
Review from Yukiko C.
Austin, TX
4/30/2012 1 Check-in Here
Had my haircut last week by Bridget (I may have spelled her name wrong, sorry!). While she wasn't a senior student, she did a great job cutting my hair. I appreciated her attention to detail and her willingness to accomodate my requests. Yes, she probably took longer doing my simple cut than it would have taken at a regular salon, but the 1.25 hours wasn't excessive or anywhere the long wait that some reviews mention. It's a $12 haircut (with Yelp check-in offer), so I think that's pretty darn good.
Also, realize that the checklist the students have includes asking you if you want to purchase product. They are ok with no, but they do have to ask. And remember that while you can pay with a credit card, tips are cash only.
Finally, I called at 12:30 on a Friday and was able to get an appointment for 1:30. Apparently, I was lucky and they are usually close if not fully booked on Fridays and Saturdays. -
Review from K S.
Chicago, IL
5/8/2012
Hmmm.... Where do I start? First off, I asked for a senior student and got a junior student when I walked in for my appointment. I asked the student about hair trends and such (as they were coloring my hair) and they were kind of clueless. That set off the first red flag. Then, I noticed that the tension for the foils were loose - another red flag. I tried to reassure myself and make small talk with the student. A few hours later , the foils were removed. There was like a good 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch between the color and my roots. And the student hadn't parted my hair right. Double whoops. They go to tone me and my hair won't take it. Then, they dry my hair and apply permanent color on top to try and achieve the results I'm looking for. I don't blame the student - they just hadn't had enough experience, and actually tried everything in their power to fix the situation. So kudos to them. Anyway, 4.5 hours later - it is closing time and the student could tell I wasn't happy with the results (and I think they realized it looked crappy). They offered to tone it again, but since they were closing there was nothing that could be done per management. The student took me to the front and offered a re-book to fix my hair (everything in their power). I actually really wanted a refund since my hair looked like crap, but apparently Aveda doesn't give refunds - nor do they fix hair past 7pm. They booked me to come back to fix my hair - but there is no way I am going to let them touch it again. I drove as fast as I could home and thanked the Lord that I had some professional color to promptly color over the mess that had been created. Student - keep learning..... don't be discouraged. Aveda - Not impressed with your policies or customer service. I certainly won't be back.
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Review from Kathryn H.
Denver, CO
11/11/2011
Got a haircut at the Aveda Institute today. I had a good experience and will definitely go back. A few things:
I called yesterday and got an appointment today, with a senior student. So, I had no issue with making an appointment, or them being booked out two weeks. Appointments with senior students are $20-not $15.
The tea is nice, the scalp massage with oil/scent choice feels good, and my hair looks awesome. One drawback is that it is an hour and 15 minute appointment, for a haircut, which seems sort of crazy to me. However, my hair is pretty perfect, and I like that while it is a student, it is supervised (every step of the way) by an educator. Another drawback, the pushing of products, but I have found that to be key at any Aveda salon, so it must be an "Aveda" thing. Of course, they aren't making a bunch of money off of cheap services, but come on, "the basket program," at the end? I was going to buy the product at the end anyway, but almost didn't want to, based on the, "Basket Program." It just didn't make sense to me.
At least on the first visit, however much you spend on product, you get a gift certificate for the same amount. $17 product-$17 gift certificate, which is almost enough for another haircut. Not sure if I would go for color, I'm afraid it would take forever. But my cut is perfection! -
Review from Lauren N.
Denver, CO
7/7/2011
I'd have to say I'm pretty disappointed. I made an appointment prior to my wedding for some services that the Institute's staff recommended. They required me to make a reservation weeks in advance. Less than an hour before my appointment-as I was on my way there- one of their receptionists called and said they had to cancel because they were short handed. She didn't even offer a re-book.
Personally, this place seems like a giant waste of time.Comment from Anne S. of Aveda Institute of Denver 8/4/2011
Hi Lauren, I apologize for getting back to you a month… More » -
Review from Kristopher M.
Denver, CO
3/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
Yes, I took the risk of letting a student do my hair... and while it could have turned out absolutely disastrous, I'm pleased to report the exact opposite.
I went in for a color treatment. I got my hair highlighted blonde and copper. It took about 5 hours because of the meticulous nature of my stylist. She really took her time making sure that it was absolutely perfect.
The students are supervised at certain points during the process. The educators drop in to give their seal of approval on the choices made for the process, the style, the color, etc, and then they check in again at the very end of the process.
Some of the highlights of my visit were:
1. Amazing tea - my stylist spoiled me by brining me a bottomless cup of this delicious licorice, mint tea.
2. I got extremely lucky finding an amazing stylist who didn't rush or cut corners.
3. My hair turned out AMAZING!! Maybe i'll post a picture of it for the yelp.
4. The massage and essential oil treatment definitely gave the feeling of being pampered.
5. I paid $25 dollars for a job that should have cost $180.00.
Some low points:
1. Make sure you have lots of time. You could be here for a while.
2. The parking is expensive downtown. -
Review from Jamie K.
Updated - 11/23/2011
Had another great time at Aveda. Got my haircut, highlights, eyebrow wax, and thermal style. Though my color didn't look exactly as the picture I wanted, it still turned out wonderfully. All thanks to Nancy!
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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10/5/2011
If you want color done right, go on a Monday and Wednesday and make an appointment with Dusty, she… Read more »
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Review from Freddie S.
Denver, CO
Updated - 2/24/2011
So going to Aveda is a serious guilty pleasure of mine. It smells like heaven, and it means that I'm doing something for my appearance outside of throwing my hair in a ponytail, and shellacking some concealer on my face.
I've been to see Abbie K. 3 times now, once to color cleanse my hair, once to dye over that color cleanse for the most amazing blonde, and a third time yesterday to have my roots touched up. It looks AWESOME. Coming from a girl who used to swear by the Feria boxed colors to cover up my gray hairs, this was the best thing I could have done for my hair.
Now getting the work done by the stylist doesn't mean you're done caring for your mane. I tried to skimp out the first time and go back to using my cheap ass hair products. EEEEHHHHHKK! Nope. It never felt as soft as it did in the salon. So I bought some sample sizes of the Aveda products, took them home and gave them a spin. *CUE THE HEAVENLY ANGELS* Smells like heaven, makes your hair feel like heaven, and ensures that you're on your way to heaven by using organic products that aren't made from anything but plants.
Here's my miracle "hair loves me back" combo: Damage Remedy Shampoo + Color Saving Conditioner + Dry Remedy Masque. Then I use some Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair to help my hair stay on my head in spite of the terrible torture I put it through with my flat iron on a near-daily basis. Their hairspray isn't really worth the price, so you're probably safe with your old throwback if you're ok with the environmental effects of chemical aerosol. If you like bigger looking hair (which, I DO, I'm southern...) please make sure to ask your student to use the Volumizing Tonic (we're having an affair behind my old moouse's back) and a round brush. VahVahVoom!
All this aside about their products, I don't think I can begin to say ENOUGH things about how much I love my color, and I realize that I am now an Abbie fan for life. When she leaves for a real life salon, I'm going to have to start shelling out a LOT more for a coif. And that makes me VERY sad. (Remember, I'm southern, and very cheap) :)1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/11/2011
I am a natural red-head with a bad case of premature grays. I made the decision to go blonde to help… Read more »
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Review from Tara L.
11/14/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I called last minute and was still able to get a reservation the next day....on a Saturday. Abigail was my stylist and she did great.
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Review from Liz S.
Denver, CO
4/15/2009
So welcome to the recession folks. For me, the recession means an end to my $150 haircuts and color at swanky Cherry Creek salons. But I'm also not ready to go back to supermarket box haircolor and horrible chop-jobs at Supercuts. The Aveda Institute has been a great solution and a saving grace!
I'll start with, the caveats. First, this is a school people. That means that the person cutting your hair is a student. It also means that you have to sign a waiver that if the student mucks up your hair, it's your own damn fault for being a cheapskate and going to a school to get your hair did. Looking for a crazy avant garde style? Um, I wouldn't try it here genius. Second, it takes a long time to get your hair did. The students generally go slow and they have to get the approval of their instructors at various times throughout the styling process. While I think this is a good thing, it does slow things down a bit. So just allocate your time accordingly.
In any case, my experience was great. I showed up at 1:50 for my 2pm appointment. Sniffed some yummy Aveda products and drank Aveda tea for ten minutes and then was introduced to my student-stylist. She did a great job on my haircolor and a flawless job on my haircut and was super conscientious. It took three hours, but I also paid $12 for the cut and $32 for the color. Am I willing to sit an extra hour in the chair to save $100, um hell yeah.
Recession-proof beauty, my friends. What's not to love. -
Review from leah o.
4/26/2010
Woo-hoo, $12 hair cuts! And they use Aveda products, which smell like earth and god and pepperminty-goodness.
A few things to watch out for:
1. Haircuts here will take over an hour. Probably closer to two. Saying the students are cautious with your hair is the hugest understatement on the planet- they will consider your tips for five minutes before snipping off 1/9th of an inch. But they're learning, and it's cute to watch them sweat.
2. You'll get what you want, sort of. Emphasis on the sort of. I came in just wanting to get the split ends off my head, that's it, and left with several chunks of split ends happily making my hair junky, intact as ever.
3. The students will generally leave you alone to your thoughts, which is excellent. Plus, the Comfortable Tea they serve is amazing, and free, and plentiful. They'll give you a little scalp massage before the cut, and I'm alllll about massage.
4. You can't tip the students using your debit card! You have to bring cash, which sucks, and as a religious tipper it disturbs me that they refuse to allow that. The girl at the front said it was "because the owner doesn't want them taxed", but anyone who has ever worked in the service industry knows that's a total crock. Red flag!
Otherwise, this place is an absolute steal, and a treat. -
Review from Kelly K.
San Francisco, CA
12/28/2007
WORST nail job ever!
I came here with a bachelorette party in July, not expecting a lot since the services here are provided by students receiving beauty education and training.
I decided to splurge for the 'Caribbean Manicure/Pedicure' since I am a fan of Aveda products. Given that I was paying more than $65 for my mani/pedi, I assumed that my manicurist had achieved a minimum level of training. I can empathize with the fact that she was nervous and wanted to complete my manicure with precision, but after almost two hours of her slowly applying and reapplying my polish in an effort not to make a mistake, I grew impatient. I even started to daydream about the quick and skilled $22 mani/pedis I receive in San Francisco. Oh, and did I mention that the pressure she used caused one of my cuticles to bleed? Finally, her supervisor (teacher?) inspected and approved her work with good marks and directed me upstairs for payment. (NOTE: services are provided in the basement, where lighting is clearly off.)
The worst part? Once I got into daylight, I noticed that my manicure had bubbles everywhere, didn't fully cover all of my nails and was already starting to peel! The only good news: I was on my way to our rooftop pool party, where I knew there was a margarita waiting for me.
Don't waste your money. -
Review from Maddy M.
Denver, CO
8/5/2008
Service here is not consistent. Because it is a school, there are inexperienced people and relatively high turnover. I was fortunate enough to know a few of the students and got to know which of them I could trust with my hair, but they have all graduated.
If you're going to get your hair cut at Aveda Institute, ask for a student who is further along in the program. -
Review from Jeremy and Jessi S.
Denver, CO
12/27/2008
The Aveda Institute is a GREAT way to stretch your dollar. I went for a cut and it was $12 - includes scalp massage with oil, shoulder rub, wash, cut and dry. I will stress, leave time for your appointment. I expected a simple wash/cut/dry to take 35 minutes tops, but left the salon after over an hour.
In the beginning I was served their delicious tea and discussed my needs with the student. I'm really bad at describing styles, but in the end we worked together to achieve a good cut. The massage portion was so-so; I suppose I'm grateful for anything, but enjoyed the oil product. The wash/rinse was also just OK; the sink was slow to drain (and the student kept talking with her sudsy hands- something I did not appreciate for some reason).
On to the cut. The students need to frequently check in with their instructors, and get signatures before moving on to the next part of your treatment (after consultation, wet/cut phase, and dry/final phase). This causes some delay, but is good! At one point I was getting a little nervous with my student's scissor strategy, but then the teacher came over to show her an improved technique. In time, voila, out came a terrific cut!
Usually I'm shy to new hairdressers, but overall, very satisfied with my visit. In the end she applied some lip gloss which I thought was fun, and showed me all the products used in my treatment before escorting me to the register. You definitely get what you pay for, and I would return. -
Review from Cristina G.
Chicago, IL
1/19/2009
ok so for $12 you cannot complain. The appointment was an hour long which is cool since they're students in training and have to get an instructor's approval two times I think. They give you a scalp massage which to me was more of a shoulder massage (EVEN BETTER) ! They tell you what they'll do. Of course they first ask what you want. It was my first time here and I thought the girl did a pretty good job. She could have done a better job in finishing me up but I had been there an hour already so I ddin't even say anything. People tend to have a hard time with my curly hair as it is so I just left it as it was. She even put lip gloss on me which was kinda weird and kinda nice ya know?
I'll probably go back there cuz the cut is good! -
Review from Galen C.
Denver, CO
8/15/2010
I was nervous about my appointment with the Aveda Institute after reading mixed reviews on Yelp. However, it was a great experience.
I got partial highlights (mostly wanted to touch up my roots). The girl who did my hair was great. The salon is HUGE and busy inside-- after all, it's a school! I read many reviews that said appointments took much longer than a regular salon, but my appointment was no longer than appointments I've had with professionals in the past.
I would recommend this place to someone who needs touch up work or something simple. I'm not sure I would try to create a brand new look for myself at a school--but that's just my personal sentiment. If you consider yourself someone who is difficult to please or if you feel you have very specific needs for your hair care, then this may not be the best situation for you.
Don't forget, they don't take checks and you can only tip in cash! -
Review from Katie L.
Updated - 9/27/2008 2 Check-ins Here
Went on Wednesday and got the best highlights and cut ever at Aveda.
I had Kami and she was super sweet, attentive & knew what she was doing.
A lot of times at Aveda your stylist will wander off to gossip and not talk to you at all but that did not happen, it seemed like she was just involved.
Very pleased & I'll be going back to her.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/21/2008
I have been here a handful of times. Maybe 5.
So, they DO do a good job but it is never what I… Read more »
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Review from Jessica D.
Arlington, VA
9/22/2007
Anyone who has ever gotten their hair done at Aveda knows that you then enter a quandary . . . you love their services (especially the color) but you cannot imagine spending that much on a regular basis-- after all, you only have two arms and two legs.
The Aveda Institute is the perfect solution. Aveda stylists go here to add to their skillz, and they have to practice what they learn. The result is surprisingly cheap-- $15 for a haircut, and for me, $60 for highlights (a total of $75 for a 3 hour appointment). The same services at a regular Aveda salon would easily cost 3x as much. I had Molly, and she helped me pick out a style from the model heads on the shelf-- I chose "The Mingle", aka the Victoria Beckham bob. I am very pleased with the results.
Yes, it's crowded, noisy, and the services you get will probably be a notch lower than the full-blown professionals, but if you are on a budget, I think you will find that it's worth it. -
Review from Maggy N.
Arvada, CO
12/1/2009
As others noted, and I agree, it is a school - so my friends and I were fully aware that we were taking a gamble and it was inexpensive.
That said, our experience was so bad it was almost funny. I have long curly hair and came in for a simple trim, my best friend is Asian-American and has gorgeous jet black stick straight hair. I love my hair but always need to tame it, she prefers to give hers volume...but I got the blow dryer and her stylist used a straightener.
They were kind, but you have to wait to have them check with their teacher before proceeding..which turned my trim into about an hour and a half ordeal. Long story short....my stylist realized what she did and put my hair up FOR me before I left.
If you have easy manageable hair, give it a try - I am sure there are different experiences, but for hard to control hair....I don't suggest it. -
Review from Kat M.
Denver, CO
11/6/2008
I've only been here once, but it was a great experience. I wanted to donate my hair to locks of love, so going in I was a bit nervous as to how I would look going out.
I have thick, frizzy, curly hair, but the woman that cut my hair did an amazing job. She was really interested in my opnions and didn't just fly off the handle and do her own thing. Plus she gave really good advice and opinions of her own. Granted it did take about 3 hours and a parking ticket, so the free locks of love hair cut ended up costing me $25. However I would just plan on being there longer due to the fact that it is a school, plus she did chop off around 10 inches of hair.
The only warning I give people is that they try and up-sell you at the end of your cut by showing you all the products they used on your hair. -
Review from Rits M.
8/16/2010
Guys, this is a place where students cut hair. given that, i think its well run and organized, clean and neat, with people who give you great service.
There is someone to take your reservation, and even though this has a three star rating on Yelp, it takes about 2 weeks to get an appointment. hmm... are these all unsatisfied customers? Doubt it! No matter how low the price is, theres no need to get awful service right? I think that speaks for itself
I got the simple cut and style. I was surprised to get a head rub - pretty good, though my stylist was rather chatty - as well as a hand massage. The teacher checked my hair, was told my requirement and came back to check it twice after. To give credit to my student, she didnt need any improvement to the work she had done.
so I got a hair wash, cut, and blowdry. In the end, they also give you a lipgloss/lipstick to try on, and take you through the products that they used. They dont really expect you to buy them - the students get it.
Tipping is permitted, so please do it! for a 15$ haircut, its not a lot to tip your student.
what I really liked about this place, compared to the other Aveda Institutes is the location, as well as the ambiance. Yes its loud and there are a lot of machines running, but its all hard wood, with 2 levels with some kitsch art on the walls. -
Review from Heather M.
Denver, CO
8/3/2010
Having visited the Aveda Institutes in both Denver and Columbus, Ohio, many times, I have almost always come away pleased. Pleased with the service and the price. It's hard to beat a $15 hair cut (for women) or $60 highlights.
The technicians are students, hence the prices, and are supervised by their instructors. I have personally found this set up to work because of the additional supervision and double and triple checks of the work being done. Not to say that something horrible still couldn't happen to your hair, but I guess I have always been lucky. Aveda is the only place that has highlighted my very dark hair to my liking and not left me looking like a trashy Mexican whore. I really hate that look.
I have found most of the students to be very pleasant, a little quirky, and generally entertaining to talk to. I feel a little old sometimes (the last time I had my hair done, my technician's mom was only a few years older than me), but I guess that's my own problem. Most have been very courteous, efficient, and answered all my questions. I also love the Aveda line of products, and the tea.
I did have a manicure done at this location once, and that left me less than satisfied. It was not very well performed, didn't last long (about 3 days), and was fairly rushed. Otherwise, I have always been really satisfied with the end result, and the price I paid.
Parking is a bit of an issue as the location is on the 16th Street Mall, so unless you can find a 2 hour meter, your parking tab could be as high as your beauty bill. -
Review from Talia D.
3/23/2009
Really, it's so inexpensive, it is a great way to save money in between expensive cuts.
Here's what I do -
I have my girl who does an AMAZING job on my hair (in fact, she is from the Institute and I followed her to her salon) BUT it is a lot more expensive than $12. So, I get my hair cut and colored with her three or so times a year. In between that, I will get a trim at the Aveda Institute. If you ask for upperclassmen you get someone more experienced. They can follow a good haircut pretty well. I wouldn't want to do a drastic cut with them but they do a nice job. Color is pretty cheap and they have to have their mixes checked by an instructor so you know that can't be too bad.
I'm not a fan of their facials or manis but a simple haircut... why spend $100 when you can spend $12? In this economy, it's nice to have options.
And I am going to take a yoga class there this week... evidently they have a yoga studio there now! :-) -
Review from BAM BAM P.
Denver, CO
8/14/2010
Epic cuts, minus the poetic composition or hero.
But there is elevated style.
And and the price is nice. -
Review from Elaine E.
Denver, CO
9/23/2007
Went here when I desperately needed a pedicure. The staff was unbelievably accommodating. In fact, of all the salons/spas I've visited they were definitely the friendliest. And I loved the mint tea while waiting.
Why a three? My pedicure was awful and didn't last long. Can I truly complain? Not really. You get what you pay for. I also hate when they don't use OPI nail polish, and the polishes they did have were lacking.
They get an "A" for effort and a "C" for substance. -
Review from kelli s.
Denver, CO
1/7/2008
You can always get a quick appointment at the Aveda Institute. I have never had a bad haircut or coloring service here, over the last two years. The instructors sign off on every move the stylists make, so there's no danger of anything really terrible happening. It's also super cheap, and filled with people- which is fun. The students have all been really friendly and accommodating.
If you are really super high maintenance, this might not be the place for you. If you like good $12 haircuts, Aveda products, and getting an appointment right away? This is the place! -
Review from Jackie V.
State College, PA
3/23/2009
Holy amazing $12 haircut, batman!!
I think this review requires a little lead up: I was in Denver this weekend for my cousin's wedding; on Thursday night before I left, I had a hair appointment in Boston and it was a DISASTER!! My cute, friendly, stylist had somehow chopped my fine locks into the poor-man's Rachel, circa 1995. YIKES. I was totally stressing out, since I knew there would be a million family pics taken during the following 48 hours and there was no time for a "fix" before I left.
Enter Aveda Institute.
I was staying in LoDo, and happened upon the AI while shopping on the 16th Street Mall...I popped in to see if I could get a walk-in that day (Saturday!) and was lucky enough to land a spot that afternoon.
My stylist was an absolute DOLL. She graduates in a month, so she was on top of her game. She took one look at my hair and helped me develop an action plan to take me from The Rachel circa 1995 to The Rachel Stevens circa 2007 without losing a lot of length, due to an impending up-do (google image search that for a more visual example) It was a modern-day miracle. Not to mention twelve bucks.
I'd give this four and a half stars, but rounded down because there is the whole hour-plus appointment thing (the stylists DO have to get approval from the pro, but that minimizes mistakes, so I really can't say that's a big negative)
Too bad I don't live in Denver; I'd totally be a regular! -
Review from Hollie W.
3/24/2011
Go student Anna K.!!!! Alright, i am biased as this is my gal pal but she really rocked my hair cut. Granted it took a while because the instructor had to make sure each step was coming along swimmingly but Anna really did an awesome job. I threw an asymmetrical shaggy edward scissor hands type thing at her (not easy) and she really delivered in what i wanted. Thanks Anna for the awesome hairdo!! Minus one star for lack of parking, bathroom in the creepy basement, and time taken which was out of Anna's control.
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Review from Jaime B.
Denver, CO
6/21/2009
I've been to the Aveda Institute a few times in the past few years with results ranging from excellent to ok. I was expecting the same quality of service when I went in for full highlights today.
My student/stylist was friendly enough, but was fairly unprofessional, seemed to lack confidence, and told me some things that were later contradicted by the instructors. No big deal, I know the stylists are still learning.
When my highlights were done, four hours after my appointment began, and she started blowdrying my hair, I realized that the color was good (not perfect but definitely not tragic) but my hair was very, very dry, frizzy, matted, and straw-like. I entered the salon with shiny, healthy, strong hair. I asked her what was going on with that. She said "I don't know" and went to get an instructor. That's when things went from ok to awful.
The instructor told me the awful frizz was because the hair at the ends was so damaged because it's old hair. My hair was healthy, recently cut, and I had never, ever seen my hair this crunchy looking. Also, doesn't everyone have 'old' hair at the ends? So they think this is normal? This damage was not normal, and the damage was not just at the ends- 3/4 of my hair is now a fried mess. We talked about deep conditioning at home, and I was warned against using a conditioner with protein in it, as it would make my damaged hair break off.
While talking to the instructor, I was looking in the mirror and playing with my hair. I pointed out that the highlights near my neck were not toned. They were just bleached out streaks. I have dark brown hair and got caramel colored highlights. The streaks are very obvious. The instructor told me there wasn't time to re-tone my hair that day (my appointment started at 2:15 and it was now 6:30). I told him I have a job, and therefore could not come in during the week to get it fixed. He shrugged. I decided to just go to the counter to pay and get the hell outta there.
While I was paying, the receptionist asked me if I was satisfied. I started telling her why I wasn't, although anyone looking at my head would be able to tell you something had gone terribly wrong. The instructor came up to us and told me the damage and uneven color was MY fault because I kept telling the student stylist to hurry. That is both 100% not true and irrelevant. I told him his student was a liar I would never be returning, and his response was a smarmy "have a beautiful day!" I had response I won't print here, and left in tears. I deep conditioned as soon as I got home. My head is still a mess, and I'll to get a few inches cut off ASAP just for it to be manageable until this disaster grows out.
I would not be writing this review if the instructor had said "yeah, let's put some conditioner on you and re-tone the back." I don't expect perfection from the Aveda Institute. I don't expect quick appointments. I do expect them to correct their mistakes, have some degree of professionalism, and not think of lame ways to blame the client when they seriously mess up. -
Review from Bonnie H.
Denver, CO
3/29/2011
All hail the Groupon that got me into this place!!! I opted for the Rosemary Mint Awakening Body Wrap, and was very pleased with my service and my experience overall :)
I was lucky enough to have my hubby drop me off to avoid the headache that is downtown parking. When I walked in I immediately felt at peace. It was warm and inviting, and it smelled so good :) A student who was speaking with another client immediately acknowledged me with a warm smile and a kind "hello". I was a little early for my appointment, so the girls at the front told me to have a seat and relax while I wait. The girl who smiled at me offered me some water or tea, and I chose the tea based on the reviews of so many Yelpers. The tea WAS delicious :) She also offered to give me a hand massage, but before I could respond with a "yes, please", my student came to get me for my body wrap.
My student was very nice and positive (I had his name written down on a menu, but I lost it...I want to say his name was Aaron). I followed him down to the "treatment room" which was a little cube with sheet for a door, but it was nice nonetheless. He asked me about my skin and any concerns I had and what I would like to gain from my treatment today. I said that I have dry skin and that I just want to feel relaxed and re-energized. He left the "room" so I could dress down to my comfort level and get under the blanket on the massage table. When he came back I was face up, and he had me close my eyes and inhale 3 deep breaths of peppermint oil (aaaaaah). Then he did a dry ex-foliating scrub on my arms, hands, legs, feet, and back. The scrub was followed by a massage with more peppermint essential oil. It was a lot more cooling than I thought it would be, and the foot massage was AMAZING! After the massage, he tucked the blankets tight around me (I guess that was the "wrap" part) and let me relax for a few minutes. I felt like a minty mummy, haha. He spritzed my face with some lovely toner and asked me if I wanted any eyeshadow or lip therapy applied (at no extra cost of course). I had him apply the grapefruit lip therapy, which was very nice! He left the "room" so I could get dressed, and then his staff person came to ask me about my experience. After this, he led me back up to the front and showed me all the products he used on me (bless his heart, I know it's also a sales business, but I strategically brought only my Groupon so I wouldn't spend and extra money). I thanked him and "paid" with my Groupon and was offered one more cup of tea before leaving out into the chilly wind :) My Groupon got me a $35 service ($85 if I had gone to an independent Aveda salon) for only $20! SCORE!!!
I would love to come back to this place! If I do get the chance to come back, I'd definitely love to try a facial or the Botanical Hair & Scalp Therapy. -
Review from Mary P.
10/22/2010 3 Check-ins Here
Students are running the show but it's still a decent-good experience. I randomly walked in when I saw the prices of things and scheduled a massage. I'd never done a full hour of massage but the experience was great sans the noise level outside the massage "rooms" which are curtained off areas. Its cute to see the students get "schooled" and really the one I got knew what she was doing and made the hour fly by even with my impatience. I enjoy being a part of the learning process as long as major mistakes aren't made! I go to get my hair colored/cut next week and I'm sort of scared. Will report on that soon enough.
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Review from Jenn P.
Denver, CO
1/27/2010
OK ... let me start with a few things up front. I was invited here by another Yelper, who is a friend and a student. So I am predicating by saying yes I DO know someone here, however she is neither a manager, owner or even an employee at this stage. I plan to review the Institute and not the friend, albeit reviewing her would be fun!
Second, I HAVE A TON OF HAIR ... AN ABSURD AMOUNT IN FACT!!! It's curly and HUGE and almost impossible to manage so I was just happy to not leave looking as if I'd been electrocuted. Most definitely happy.
OK so now on to my experience. Wow this place is QUITE the operation! DAMN! There is A LOT going on here. I walked in and was offered some tea which was good and warm and I was freezing at the time. Thank you tea lady. I checked in with a remotely friendly girl, signed my waiver and was told to " have a seat" and my student will come for me. One side note here... it really drives me nuts when someone says "take a seat" and there is NO PLACE TO SIT cause all the seats are TAKEN... sheesh. Anyhoo my friend showed up and off we went to the bowels of the salon.
One thing that is very VERY important to know about agreeing to be someones "model" and I use that term VERY loosely here, as it's me we're talking about. Anyway, this process takes a VERY LONG TIME. It is nothing like a normal color and cut situation. There are so many steps that the students MUST follow and they need to be checked by their instructor after almost every move they make. This is not at all a bad thing being they are learning and it is your head after all, however it takes hours and hours. I was there for over six and was not the ast to leave. Plan accordingly or you will panicking about stuff like your child standing alone in a school yard somewhere.
Corinne Rasmussen was the instructor I met that day. I must say, I was so impressed with her. Sweet heavenly father this woman has A LOT GOING ON!!! She handles her responsibilities, her students and the rest of us flawlessly. Really calm, very positive, down to earth, friendly and thorough. She had at least 8 students and they would very often be lined up to ask her a question or get her initials for a task completed. She stayed calm and offered help and this involved one allergic reaction and a near full blown panic attack by the student working next to us. Which brings me to another point. These girls are WORKING THEIR ASSES OFF to learn this art. WOWIE! I had NOOOO idea the amount of time and work and effort and knowledge and steps and just basic stuff that goes into being a stylist. I have a new found respect. These girls were supportive and kind to each other, and sometimes girls, especially the young one can be well... horrid bitches? These girls were not that, not at all. They were sweet and it was a lot of fun hanging out with just chicks. It was also very entertaining to listen to the conversations being had between the students and their models, who were all obviously close friends or family ( who lets a stranger at their hair without a degree?) "are you excited" ... " are you nervous?" ... "I'm not are YOU?" .... "did you just say oops?" "are you OK?" It was a whole lotta love and support from the friends and whole lotta hard work and discipline on the students part. I am really proud of my friend. There also seemed to be a lot of great help and support and hands on advice from at least 3 people in the upper echelons here, it was a team effort, a village, and I like that a lot.
If you have it in your heart to help these young people out in their careers and need some freshening up go on down there and see what they have to offer. If you have an aversion to LOTS of eyeliner, lip gloss and more accessories than a Claire's mega store than these folks may not be for you, but you will definitely have lots of pretty people to look at. I did! -
Review from Angela C.
8/21/2010
Scalp massage, shampoo, cut and style for $15? If you don't require anything complicated (I have long straight hair) and don't mind your hair cut taking a little longer than usual, this is a great deal. You also need to either be immune or amused to the hustle and bustle of all the students and their clients- it's a huge room with lots of people (student and supervisors). I personally enjoy the people watching, and especially like watching the students practicing on the slightly creepy head mannequins. This is probably not the place to go if you are a perfectionist and want a true salon experience.
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Review from Christina J.
Boulder, CO
10/18/2009
It's pretty much all been covered, but I thought I'd throw in my two cents. I have curly hair, and it can be really difficult to find people who know what they're doing so I don't leave with the oh-so attractive look known as "mushroom head". This is where people who don't know how to deal with my curls give me only two layers all around my head. Not attractive.
That's where it's great that this place is a school. If the student isn't sure, and this has only happened to me once, then the instructors will hang out and make sure that not only was the student doing it correctly and learning, but that I'm also taken care of.
I also got my hair colored a very foxy shade of red, if I do say so myself, and the girl who did it was fabulous. It was only $40 (or so) to boot. Sweet.
I agree with the earlier points about the facials and pedicures being only so-so.
So now that the secret's out, I hope I can still get in every few months on a Saturday... -
Review from Paula B.
Denver, CO
2/8/2010
Like everyone, I too have been hit by the hard economic times, so one of the first things for me to give up was my Cherry Creek salon and it's high prices. I opted to try out the Aveda Institute on the advice of a friend. I have very long, very thick, dark hair, and I went in for a full highlight/color to keep up the light blonde color I have. My stylist was extremely impatient and rude, and rolled her eyes most of the time I was in the chair. She did not apply the color correctly, so my roots were about a half inch long, and she did not properly color around my hairline, so I had a straight line of color right next to my ears. To top it all off, it ended up costing me $150, which is totally ridiculous. They charge you for every bowl of extra color they have to use, and with my long/thick hair, plus the toner she added, the price was way above what I was expecting to pay for such a terrible job. At the end her instuctor offered to correct some of her mistakes the next day for free, but when I called the next day their phone lines were down, and I never went back. Bottom line, I wouldn't have been so disappointed if I hadn't paid so much in the end.
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Review from Julie D.
Lafayette, CO
Updated - 9/27/2009
Okay, it's true, you DO get what you pay for. Went back for a cut/all over color. Cut and color- still AMAZING, and this is because of the impeccable training. Remember, this is a school and the stylists are still in learning mode. My long-layer cut is pretty standard- pretty hard to mess up. And my girl did just fine. All over color- the same. I wanted to go red and Julia did a great job of determining how to do so without having to "lift" my color and still make my hairs go KAPOW! with red. She checked in with the educators per usual, got a great cut, fabulous color, but... I wasn't so happy with the blow-out. I look at it is as a learning experience- not for me, but for any stylist who has to learn how to blow-out thick, curly hair. It CAN be done and look beautiful (I do know how to give a great blow-out- years of practice) and it really comes down to practice. Which is exactly why these stylists are in school, right? The AI is still my salon of choice. See ya in 6 weeks!
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8/25/2009
This is why I heart Yelp! I read Liz S's review months ago and knew somehow, someway, I was going to… Read more »
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Review from Carrie O.
5/17/2008
The Aveda Institute is the best place to get a cheap haircut in the Denver/Boulder area! It's kind of a pain to get there from Boulder, but I do it on occasion to take advantage of the great price & good vibes in this salon/school. I really like that they do a scalp massage and wash before you get the haircut. You really get a LOT of bang for $12! Their pedicures are great, too. I've only had a few, but they've always been really wonderful. I don't necessarily like the fact that they make the students show you all the products after you have the treatments, but I know it's a necessity for them. Also, to the people who have negative things to say about this school, remember... the artists are still STUDENTS and are learning! You're not always going to get the best student to do your treatment, but that's just how it goes sometimes. Still, I will always come here to get great, cheap haircuts & for the atmosphere!
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Review from Jessica S.
Palo Alto, CA
8/15/2010
I went to the Aveda Institute for a massage. I have had great experiences at Aveda schools in the past and, after a bad and expensive haircut in LA, go to one exclusively for hair services. When I entered the salon it was extremely crowded - all of the stools at the table were filled and there were a lot of people standing. I waited in line to check-in (10 minutes early as usual) and the receptionist told me my masseur would see me in about 15 minutes. Now one of my favorite things about a salon - particularly Aveda - is the pre-service experience. Good magazines to peruse, ice water or hot mint tea, etc. But there was no offer of water or a seat. I asked and was brought to a chair in the middle of the salon space and given a dixie cup. The massage area was nice and cool and in the basement. The area was separated by curtains and I could hear all the staff in the break area chit-chatting away during the first half of my massage. The actual massage was mediocre, but it is a school and the price was decent. Overall, I wasn't too impressed, especially in comparison to the Aveda schools I've been to in the past.
