SimplyBe Salon and Spa

4.0 star rating
103 reviews Rating Details

Categories: Hair Salons, Day Spas

528 University Ave
Palo Alto, CA 94301
(650) 323-1009
Hours:

Mon, Wed-Sat 10 am - 7 pm

Sun 10 am - 6 pm

Price Range:
$$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
Good for Kids:
No
By Appointment Only:
No
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes
Le Charm Beautique
5.0 star rating
24 reviews

Relaxing and exfoliating 60-minute facial includes a custom mask to address any areas of concern

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103 reviews in English

  • Review from Annie N.

    San Jose, CA

    5.0 star rating
    12/12/2011

    I went to Alan for the first time a couple of months ago and I love my haircut.  It feels so much healthier now and it shapes my face quite nicely.  He listens carefully to what you want and make recommendations based on what looks good on you.  I've considered coloring my hair as black can be a bit dull and he suggested the new chocolate colors.  I'll be back next time to get some coloring done!

  • Review from Danielle L.

    San Mateo, CA

    4.0 star rating
    11/22/2011

    As long as you make an appointment in advance, they are on the ball and on top of things. If you don't, you can expect to wait.

    The salon is clean (extra plus!) the people are friendly, and they always offer you tea when you sit down. The massage chairs are great--especially since my back is always hurting. Getting a manicure/pedicure here is a great way to relax for a bit, something I am certain we all need.

    It's a little on the spendy side, but compared to some cheaper places down the street, I've decided it's worth it.

  • Review from Chers S.

    Santa Clara, CA

    4.0 star rating
    10/31/2011

    Purchased a TravelZoo voucher for $79 that included a 50min massage and 50min express facial.

    The massage was really good. I don't remember the massage therapists' name but he was a male. He didn't talk too much during the massage, created a soothing environment and I left the salon feeling very relaxed.

    My Express facial was pretty good too. The lady threw in the extractions for free; extractions are not included in the express facial. My skin was a little red from the extractions but it cleared up within 24hrs and I didn't break out at all afterward.

    Would definitely consider going back for another massage!

  • Review from janine k.

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    • 48 friends
    • 77 reviews

    Cupertino, CA

    2.0 star rating
    9/2/2011

    My sister and I came here for haircuts & pedicures about a year ago. The salon is very nice, simple and clean.. true to their name, I suppose. We started with the pedicure, which was great. They have a great selection of current colors, something I always look for. We were offered tea/water/etc during our pedicure. Overall, quality pedicure but I can't remember how much it costs.

    We both got haircuts after the pedicure. I can't remember the names of either of our stylists but I had a female and my sister had a male.. if that helps at all. haha. Anyways, the cut itself was fine, nothing special and when we got home my mom asked if we even got our hair cut. I found both stylists to be overpriced. I think my sisters was 100 and mine was 75? I could be wrong but it was somewhere around there. I don't have a problem paying that much for a haircut, but I expect a little more than what we received. When I went to pay for my haircut at the front desk, I added a $15 tip on top of the 75 haircut. My sister was still getting hers done so I sat in the waiting area for a while. The girl from the front desk came over to me to tell me that she actually undercharged me by $5.00 and that she wanted to add five dollars onto my transaction. I of course said sure, but I couldn't believe she actually did it!! That was a mistake made by HER so she should have swallowed the loss. I thought it was incredible unprofessional and I was seriously stunned! She could have taken it out of the tip that my hairstylist didn't even deserve!

    Anyways, great pedicure, whatever haircut and unimpressive customer service. Needless to say, I did not return.

  • Review from R G.

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    • 0 friends
    • 5 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    1.0 star rating
    1/25/2012

    I purchased a Massage package from TravelZoo and made and squeezed into the only appointment they had for the next 10 days (forcing me to rearrange 2 other activities).  Then, when I showed up, SimplyBe wouldn't honor the appointment and said I would have to come back a week later (which was after my voucher expired).  They didn't say they would honor it, but that I would have to come back and see.  They also wanted the physical voucher then and there, until I pointed out that if I gave it to them, I had no proof of having the voucher in the first place.

    Good thing I held on to it.  They turned around and filed the voucher number with Travelzoo as having been accepted and service provided.  I had to go to Travelzoo and dispute that with them as well.

    Finally, a week later, I returned.  My first reaction was extremely negative.  I thought I was going to pass out from the excessive and heavy perfumed orders.  Thank goodness the therapist took me WAY in the back and away from the smell.  Otherwise, I would've had to have left.

    Meredith Simon gave me an excellent massage.  She obviously knows her stuff and Fortunately, she is listed on http://massagetherapy.com, because I won't be returning to SimplyBe.  Their other SimplyBe staff made things excessively difficult and gave contradictory instructions.  The voucher made the massage a bargin, but the normal prices are way too high compared to other providers in the area.

  • Review from Lana B.

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    • 43 friends
    • 13 reviews

    Mountain View, CA

    4.0 star rating
    1/9/2012

    Price was higher than I am used to paying and hence, I took away one star.  However, I do believe my stylist, Alan Scott-who just relocated from NYC  (I'm biased-my favorite stylist is on the East Coast)-is incredible and totally worth it!  He's been practicing his art for over two decades and an an exceptionable stylist and overall wonderful person.  For me, if I can't connect with my stylist...I don't care much for the cut.  The salon is lovely and I only had to wait one day to get in for an appointment.  The salon is progressive...as they have conscious dance classes for employees on the weekends...they're really doing something right there!  So, I only has a cut, from Alan Scott-and no other services thus far, but I love this salon and I highly recommend it. My cut was $75 and I found parking right outside the door on University.

  • Review from Erwin H.

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    • 11 friends
    • 9 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/17/2011 1 Check-in Here

    Both my kids love Tracy

  • Review from Jenna D.

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    • 4 friends
    • 37 reviews

    Redwood City, CA

    1.0 star rating
    6/1/2011

    I realize that I'm in the minority here but I received the worst hair cut of my life at SimplyBe!

    I had been growing out my hair for 2 years. When I went in, it was a little past my collar bone (the longest my hair has been since I was 8).

    I made a point of stressing this to Alan and saying that I didn't want to take too much off. That I was wanting to continue to grow it longer still. He talked a great game, said he would take off about an inch, based on his reviews and what he was saying I gave him the go ahead and told him I trusted him to "work his magic"

    I was put at ease when he started cutting and he made a point of showing me how little he was taking off... BOY was that a farce!

    The end result left 5% of my hair the length discussed (not including the 3 inch gap on my right side where I am bald!). The rest is multiple lengths, the shortest ending at my earlobe.

    I couldn't decide if I should scream or cry when Alan was finished. So I did nothing. It's all quite frankly a daze now... I remember commenting that I felt bald, throwing it into a pony tail and getting out of there as fast as I could (BTW, I was floored when she told me it was going to be $75 for this piece of shit hair cut). Wow! In retrospect I should have gone to Super Cuts, for $10 they would have screwed up my hair too but it probably would have been fixable!

    Every time I touch or look at my hair, I cry!  I've never felt so bald and ugly!

    At the rate my hair grows, it will take 2.5 years to undo this. It's too thinned out to put it in a bun. It looks stupid in a pony tail .  The top layers make it too short to curl. The only thing I can think of is another hair cut... The feed back is either it's hair it will grow back or WTF was that guy on?

    Bottom line, since I left Simplybe I have used the words BALD and UGLY more in one day than I had used them in my entire life... as much hair as I HAD I never thought BALD would be a word I used to describe myself... SIMPLY BE-WARE!

  • Review from Karla R.

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    • 19 friends
    • 97 reviews

    Woodside, CA

    5.0 star rating
    Updated - 10/4/2011

    Had a shellac manicure 15 days ago.  They did a great job (albeit I chose a light pink color, so it's pretty easy), and I haven't had any chipping or peeling issues.  My nails do grow quickly, which is obvious because I've got at least 1mm of exposed nail at my cuticles, but I'm not going to get it removed until next week (3 weeks total).  I have even filed all my nails down, and the shellac at the tips has stayed intact.  I am impressed!  $35 for a manicure, and it'll be $5 to get it removed.  Pretty good for 3 weeks of pristine manicure.

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 4.0 star rating
      6/18/2010

      I've had one manicure here so far, and after 1 week, the polish is reasonably intact.  Some minor… Read more »

  • Review from Emily P.

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    • 3 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Menlo Park, CA

    4.0 star rating
    10/28/2011

    Got a great manicure/pedicure here last week.  I was there with two friends, and all three of us felt very well cared for. The mini-massages were longer than you usually get, too!  The best part, though, is that a week later my nails are only beginning to chip!  Usually my polish is chipping off noticeably within 24 hours, unless I go the gel route.  

    Not cheap, but you actually get what you pay for.

  • Review from zahara D.

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    • 0 friends
    • 1 review

    Redwood City, CA

    5.0 star rating
    8/10/2011

    I'm so Happy with My Skin that I have to send a Review for this new Esthetician ,her name is Sylvina .
    My face was Glowing after she finish My Facial,and my Eye brow design was perfect they use the best hard wax ever,no pain .:)
    She has a magic touch ,makes me relax (very difficult for me this days )and gave me a delicious massage at the end.
    I always do my pedi/mani here,but I never try the facials before, this was superior level ,even comparing with the most high end places around .and even in France.She gave me 10% Off ,cause' I book  my next Facial the same day  :) Enjoy

  • Review from A D.

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    • 0 friends
    • 22 reviews

    Menlo Park, CA

    5.0 star rating
    6/17/2011

    Hands-down the best place around for mani-pedis!

    The express mani is $15 and express pedi is $18 (no discount for both). I love this option since I really just want the nails done since I'm too busy to set there and get massaged, dipped in hot wax, etc.

    I usually make appointments a day or two in advance (have been turned away as a walk in). I'm always in and out quickly and they usually give me the option of having mani/pedi done simultaneously.

    The employees are all super-friendly and the place is very clean and relaxing. They have awesome massage chairs! I've been offered coffee/tea and they always have plenty of good magazines.

  • Review from Kathy L.

    Mountain View, CA

    4.0 star rating
    2/16/2011

    Made an appointment for a mani/pedi after hearing rave reviews from a coworker, and needing a cheaper nail salon (the one I've been going to is great, but pricey at $30 for a pedi). Rose did my toes and Michelle did my hands; both were GREAT. I mean, really, I couldn't ask for more. Sweet, nice, meticulous, thorough, and just the right amount of chatty. The tools also come in those bags that tell me they've been sanitized, which is something I'm so paranoid about. I could not be happier with my nails and experience! A little pricier than what I was expecting ($42 for the Simply Manicure & Pedicure - my friend must have been talking about the Express pedicure which is only $20) but the massages were excellent (perfect pressure) so it's worth the splurge every now and then!

    Randoms:
    - the chairs are actually a tad bit uncomfortable on your butt
    - magazines are in the back of the salon (I didn't see them until too late)
    - they offer you hot tea or water during your mani/pedi (love that this is becoming the trend in salons now)

  • Review from Diana K.

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    • 2046 friends
    • 294 reviews

    Cupertino, CA

    4.0 star rating
    Updated - 2/27/2011

    I returned to redeem my free pedicure which was kindly given to me on my first visit due to an unusually long wait to have my hair cut (waited about half an hour extra and i had an appointment).  I appreciated that, so thanks Simplybe.

    The pedicure was fantastic - excellent service.  I liked that my experience was relaxing and i wasn't rushed to get out the door.  My toes look wonderful now and i even try to take them out from time to time - yes, even in the winter.

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 4.0 star rating
      12/20/2010

      My new come to salon and spa!

      I appreciate the excellent service without pretense.   I came here for… Read more »

  • Review from Trish C.

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    • 33 friends
    • 91 reviews

    Hayward, CA

    3.0 star rating
    4/17/2011

    I had wanted to take one of my bffs to a nail spa and dinner for her birthday present. Unfortunately the one I had in mind seems to have gone downhill over the last months, so I found this place on Yelp, with many places to have dinner after (see my Joya review). I made reservations for mani-pedis for two, and had the muscle tension relief option for both.

    I thought it might have been slightly pricey for what we got, but then again, it really was worth it, from the polish that has stayed despite my cleaning the house and washing my hands numerous times (a first) - and this is with one coat of polish! And the massage on the arms and legs.

    They offer you tea, and friendly service. And even though they went past closing time, they didn't speed things up.

    The only annoying thing was the lady at the end who decided to yell into her speaker phone for a couple of incoming calls to coordinate after-nail plans with her party. Apparently, this person has never heard of bluetooth, or even headphones. So much for a zen-like atmosphere when someone is telling the world about when to pick her up. Our attendants just shook their heads and we had to laugh, but since it wasn't the fault of the salon, they certainly can't be blamed for such inconsiderate clients.

    So SimplyBe, thank you for allowing me to give my friend such a nice treat for her birthday.

  • Review from Flor D.

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    • 2 friends
    • 3 reviews

    San Jose, CA

    5.0 star rating
    12/19/2010

    I had a spectacular experience at Simply Be; they offer high-end service and ambiance at a very reasonable price.  Most importantly, the staff is down to earth and highly professional, a rare combination. One of the things I love about this salon is that they use Pureology, my favorite hair care products. Not only are they vegan, but also they prolong your color and make your hair easy to style.

    Thanks to Alan, my cut and color were fantastic; he updated my look and seemed to intuitively know what I wanted. In addition to being exceedingly personable, he patiently listened to my preferences and cut my hair accordingly. I have very fine hair and am constantly trying to increase its volume with products and Alan was able to achieve this with the cut. The styling I got that day lasted through moisture and wind, and in the weeks since it still looks fabulous in spite of the fact that I don't blow dry.

    I received multiple services that day and the timing was well coordinated by the angle at the front desk. My manicure and pedicure were flawless, in fact, the best ever! The nail specialists were friendly, professional, and meticulous. I really appreciated the quite and relaxing atmosphere, and upgrading with a massage is well worth the price.

    Can't wait to go back!

  • Review from Lynsey H.

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    • 7 friends
    • 11 reviews

    Menlo Park, CA

    5.0 star rating
    12/14/2010

    Okay, I'm probably being redundant but I am so happy and well-groomed right now that I just have to post.

    Hair: Alan is awesome. He took the time for a proper consultation but he's really one of those intuitive hairdressers who gets what you are talking about without you having to labor the point. Alan used my pictures as a jumping off point to create a really cute, individual pixie cut that kept my bangs long enough to swoop up or down. The best cut I have had in a long time! :D

    Nails: I love Christine. She is friendly, considerate and soooo good at her job! I am used to her fantastic pedicures but she just did a Shellac manicure on me yesterday (complete with wonderful forearm and hand massage) and I can tell it's going to last forever!

    Thanks guys! Love this place and will be back soon.

  • Review from Dr. Ginger M.

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    • 16 friends
    • 2 reviews

    Redwood City, CA

    5.0 star rating
    2/21/2011

    Hair by Alan Scott is a really great idea! It is lucky for us to find a pro like Alan working in a small salon in Palo Alto, since he is seasoned and trained at top salons in New York City and is new to northern California.
    I absolutely loved the job he did on my hair as well as his manner of inquiry with me about what "I" wanted. It is a unique hair designer who can listen well and land what the client wants, while still using a brilliant creative flair. I was looking for someone like that! Thank you, Alan.

  • Review from Jennifer P.

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    • 3 friends
    • 27 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    4.0 star rating
    10/28/2010

    I am new to the area and I dreaded finding someone to do my hair!  Well I actually met Alan at the Verizon store on University.  After chatting it up, he gave me his card, said he was new to the area and he would love to do my hair.  Alan seemed like a cool guy, from NY (me too) so why not give it a shot.  I already had a good feeling about him and after reading some of the reviews on Yelp, I knew I would be ok.

    Alan totally remembered me.  We talked about what he thought would be best and I basically told him to do his thing......well he did!  I usually can tell right away when I'm going to get a great cut and I GOT A GREAT CUT!  He cuts the hair when it's wet, then dries it and goes back in again with the scissors once it's dry.  Now THAT is a sign of a great stylist!  I'm really really really happy with my hair and the true test came the next day when I could actually style it with ease.  Alan is a great stylist who takes serious pride in his work.  I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend him.

    So why the 4 stars and not 5?  That has to do more with the Salon.  In the middle of my cut, the receptionist came up and said, "sorry to bother you Alan but I need to collect payment now."  WHAT!?  Really!?  I kind of felt bad for Alan as I think he was just as shocked and annoyed as I was.  I just thought that was totally unprofessional.  Don't book appointments in the evening if you have to interrupt the service and close out your drawer. Alan would get 5 stars all the way!!!  

    Go see Alan, you won't be disappointed!

  • Review from Sirviceman O.

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    • 0 friends
    • 6 reviews

    San Carlos, CA

    5.0 star rating
    10/18/2010

    I received a Great manicure from Daisy this week which is something I usually do for myself at home with often undesireable results as I often cut myself or my nails end up crooked and rough.

    After Daisy, my nails were smooth and feel great! She also took the time to explain to me about my cuticles and how to care for them which I greatly appreciated. Very useful information which I before took for granted that I knew and actually I did not.

    I dont know if alot of other guys either enjoy or take the time for manicures but I would recommend you give it a shot and see for yourself how relaxing and useful this bit of care can be from a kind and talented person like Daisy at Simply Be. I bet you will enjoy it.

    Now I just have to get up the courage to try a pedicure!

  • Review from Deepali G.

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    • 13 friends
    • 8 reviews

    San Jose, CA

    4.0 star rating
    9/21/2010

    I had my haircut here recently and I loved it!
    The place is cute and quite trendy. The stylist that did my hair, I believe her name was Tracy, was very patient since I have long and thick hair. She must of spent an hour and half cutting,washing and styling my hair, which is usually the norm.
    I was very pleased with the results, and I can't wait to go back!

    Oh and the price was decent, 65 dollars for long hair..Not bad!

  • Review from F E.

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    • 0 friends
    • 11 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    9/20/2010

    So the key here is simple:

    A - They have the Shellac 14- to 21-day polish from CND for only $30 a spa French manicure. Depending on how fast your nails grow out, this new polish truly truly truly DOES NOT chip or budge. I mean, you could weld in it. And it dries in 2 MINUTES. Yes, you read that correctly - 2 MINUTES. Very few salons have this state-of-the-art polish yet. My current French mani is now on day 16! I kid you not - and it looks brand-new.

    B - They are up-to-date with Jane Iredale products. Angie is very good at make overs, much better than your average Sephora SA.After searching for months for a decent foundation and perfect color match, Angie did the job for me with Iredale products. The issue's quite simple - Iredale knows how to interpret trends into wearable but not boring colors. So you can wear the latest looks to work and out to play without looking like a fashion victim. For example, you can easily do the latest True Blood/Mad Men looks with Jane Iredale without feeling like you're on your way to a fan convention. Also. the Iredale has a broad range of colors that are suitable for today's diverse world. Finally, Iredale makeup applied correctly lasts 14 hours, even through a California summer day.

    These are the 2 best reasons to become a regular at Simply Be.

  • Review from Healey C.

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    • 30 friends
    • 23 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    9/17/2010

    YES!!

    I have finally found my hair-guy. Alan is the man - was able to somehow decipher my bumbling description of what i wanted for a haircut PERFECTLY, and I can say that I've finally found a haircut place in the area. He is a great listener, incredibly nice, and exceptional at what he does.

    Suffice it to say that I scheduled my next appointment with Alan before I left. I know he's going to get big in this area and I don't want to share him!

  • Review from Heather Z.

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    • 2 friends
    • 29 reviews

    Campbell, CA

    2.0 star rating
    7/27/2011

    $62 for a mediocre pedicure = 2 stars.

  • Review from a d.

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    • 4 friends
    • 19 reviews

    Menlo Park, CA

    5.0 star rating
    8/9/2011

    Michelle... In a word: BOMB!  Best pedicure I've had since I've moved to the bay area. I got the chocolate mint pedicure, not only did it smell awesome, but I literally wanted to eat the masque! She advised against that;) great polish job too. All the girls are really nice and welcoming. Really good massage too. Definitely my new pedi spot!

  • Review from JEREMY T.

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    • 102 friends
    • 12 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    10/4/2010

    I'm one of those guys who has a hard time admitting I got a pedicure (my excuse is a deployment overseas in boots!) but I have no issue publicly saying that it was a great experience going to SimplyBe.

    Located just a quarter mile from the heart of downtown Palo Alto, SimplyBe offers a very professional attitude and quality services.  The pricing is average and the workers have a great attitude!

  • Review from Gabrielle G.

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    • 38 friends
    • 8 reviews

    San Mateo, CA

    5.0 star rating
    6/22/2011 1 Check-in Here

    I've been coming here to get my hair done with Tracy for about a year now. I always leave happy with the results. And the salon is willing to work with my busy schedule :)

  • Review from Joyce R.

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    • 0 friends
    • 4 reviews

    Menlo Park, CA

    4.0 star rating
    9/12/2011

    When I was visiting a friend in Chicago, she gave me a Spa Finders gift certificate for my birthday.  When I got home I went to the Spa Finders website and found this great salon very near my home.  I made an appointment to get my hair cut (Tracy was the stylist) and I couldn't be more pleased!  Prices are very reasonable for this area and I can't wait to go back for a mani/pedi!  It is good to try new places now and then and this certificate led me to Simply Be.  Great place and very friendly, personable and professional staff.  Only gave 4 stars because I haven't tried the other services -- but Tracy and the receptionist BOTH get 5 stars!

  • Review from Zoya z.

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    • 14 friends
    • 138 reviews

    Hayward, CA

    3.0 star rating
    7/18/2011

    I am so so torn on this review and if Yelp was down with 3.5 stars that's where I'd be but alas it's not.

    7 friends and I gathered here to get all pretty before my 30th birthday dinner.  I rarely do anything for my birthday and since the number was a bit round and special I wanted to have some salon time with my girls to celebrate it right.

    I first emailed the salon 2 months prior inquiring about how to go about doing a private party and how to set up the schedule.  Some email responses were slow some were quick, but eventually we got a nice schedule going for all 8 of us and the services we wanted.    

    When we got to the salon I found out that 1 person wasn't on schedule and 2 others were given the wrong time.  3 out of 8 people were messed up.  Yeeck.  They did a good job fixing everything for us but after so many emails we shouldn't have had that hick up. The website advertises "private parties" and I was never offered anything in regards to that.  I don't even know what that means, really.  We weren't offered snacks, discounts or anything more than 8 regular people walking in from the street would (just to clarify, I wasn't expecting anything, I just don't know what "private party package" means on their website.

    I got the Simply Glowing package.  

    Facial - 6 stars! This is truly the best facial I've ever had.  The room wasn't the fanciest nor the most relaxing but all I know is that I walked in with really crappy skin and walked out looking like a had a complete makeover.  I was planning on slathering pounds of foundation since I was breaking out but once the facial magic was done to me, my skin was crystal clear.  Forget that I *felt* like a million bucks, my face *looked* it!

    Hair - oh boy.  There were two really terrible mistakes made: first, I wasn't asked to sit facing the mirror.  I've never been to a salon where I was looking out at the salon and the hair dresser was behind me, ie no one was looking at the mirror.  I kept trying to catch a peek but alas I realized that I was looking like a poodle when she was 90% done.  Yes, she mentioned the curling iron earlier but I didn't realize she meant every single hair on my head would be curled.  30th birthday, not junior prom.  I was looking for a nice blow dry, flowy and easy.  Once I finally noticed and spoke up about the poodle, she brushed it all out and started blowing drying it.  Too bad I had told her earlier I didn't want it straight (that was pretty much the only thing I really asked for) and she kept on adding hair spray.  I must have said 5 times that I don't want it hard and sticky.  Fail. Second mistake: she didn't bother to look where my hair naturally falls. I was all crooked and not very happy.  At the end of it all I looked like I took my straightener and worked it for 10 minutes.  Alone at my house. I'm really bummed I paid for that hair and that's the "do" I had all night.

    Nails - I got the orchid bamboo mani and pedi.  It was really nice but I am not sure that it's worth $114 dollars.  On top of an already expensive package that I got  I was charged extra to get my Shellac toe nail polish removed but unfortunately wasn't told about it until I was paying.  Most of my finger nails were ruined by the time I got out of the salon.  They didn't remind me to pay before they put the nail polish on and I surely would have appreciated the reminder.

    Overall, we had a phenomenal time. I am looking forward to going back for many more facials and none of the hair.  I would also double check the appt before arriving to yours.

  • Review from Stefanie L.

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    • 13 friends
    • 10 reviews

    Eyota, MN

    2.0 star rating
    8/15/2011

    After hearing about Simply Be and reading some pretty decent reviews online, I decided to check it out.  I made an appointment with Tracy, who besides Alan, seemed to have the most favorable reviews.  I had a picture of the hairstyle that I had in mind, which wasn't all that different from what I already had, just a little bit shorter.  She asked me if I wanted bangs.  I deferred to the photo I brought (no bangs) and said I wanted my hairstyle to look exactly like that.  So she got to work.  Let it be known that I had gotten a pretty bad haircut back in January where my layers had been cut much too short, so I had been growing out my hair since then.  In 20 minutes, Tracy negated all my new growth and gave me a haircut that was NOTHING like the picture I had brought in, and everything I hated about my January haircut.  To add insult to injury, I have very thick, voluminous hair...she thinned my hair out so much, and then flat ironed it to the point that it had no body whatsoever.  I looked and felt like I was wearing a swim cap.  Oh, and I have bangs, which I definitely did not want.  A week or so out I've made my peace with the bangs, but the rest of my limp, diminished hair still bothers me every time I look in the mirror.  Maybe I should have shelled out the cash for Alan?  I don't think the price of the haircut was all that exorbitant, but given the fact that I hate it, I was really irritated about having to pay for it at all.  

    I would have given this review a solid one-star, but the pedicure that I had afterwards was very nice, and still looks awesome over a week later.  I had the Simply Be pedicure, and for the price, it was really nice, and actually costed less than most pedicures I've had.  I would go back for a pedi, but definitely not for a haircut.  I'll be growing out my hair for ANOTHER 6 months as it is anyway, and should be able to find a decent hair stylist by then.

  • Review from Silvana I.

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    • 1 friend
    • 8 reviews

    Foster City, CA

    2.0 star rating
    5/14/2011

    I went to this place for a facial and a manicure. I usually like to have all my cosmetic needs done in one place, so I yelped for a place that has good reviews for both. SimplyBe seemed to have all that I needed today. My experience however wasn't a 4-5 star.

    Facial - it was good, and I am considering going back for another one. I was with Susan, she was very nice, and had a very soft, relaxing touch. I warned early that my skin is very sensitive and gets easily red, so she was careful not to make me wanna hide at home for the weekend. I may consider going back for a treatment that she recommended (and which I know I need).

    Manicure - well, I am sorry, but this is by far the worst manicure that I've had. Why:
    1. My polish is not even. And it is not even on so many levels - I have polish on my cuticles and I have polish on the sides of my nails. My 2nd nail polish layer is not fully covering the lower one. And something which is just ridiculous is that the polish on the tips of my nails does not follow a straight line. My pinky looks as if I am biting my nails :)
    2. There was not a single nail that the lady did not need to correct after applying the nail polish. And how did she correct it - with her own nails :) Not with a tool, remover pen, or simply cotton with remover on it.
    3. For I don't know what reason, the lady decided to cut the skin on the sides of my nails - I did not have dead skin there, my skin was actually quite soft. And it would all be fine, if after her intervention my skin wasn't rough on those places. I even have a small piece of skin that sticks out, and makes a sound when I slide that finger on my clothes :)
    4. The other thing is that the nails themselves are not filed evenly. And you know there is this tiny thin layer of nail that stays "below" the nail after you file it and when you wash your hands it pops out so you have to rework the nails to remove it - well, I have that, it sticks out all thin and white at the tip of my red polished nails :D And again when I slide the fingers on a piece of fabric, I can hear the sound :)

    I think I would be really mad, if this all wasn't so absolutely ridiculous.

    A 7 year old girl would make a more precise manicure than this. Seriously. If I decide to go back it will definitely not be for the manicure.

  • Review from Nima D.

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    • 0 friends
    • 2 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    1.0 star rating
    5/31/2011

    my eyebrows are a wreck! I had a full brows and the woman who waxed me made them pencil thin. I clearly stated i wanted a clean up with no extra hair removed. I was in tears. Even worse was the fact that either eyebrow was a different size and shape. The manager wasn't the slightest bit sympathetic. Horrible.

  • Review from Caroline A.

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    • 154 friends
    • 16 reviews

    Union City, CA

    5.0 star rating
    4/17/2010 1 photo 14 Check-ins Here

    This place is right across the street from my work and my boss goes here all the time for her hair and nail treatments. She had given me a gift certificate for a manicure and I have been in dire need of a place out in the Bay Area that used hard wax (rather than strips and wax) for brazillians. Most places in the Bay Area that do use hard wax are either way too expensive or too far for me to get to on a last minute basis.

    I came here after I got off work at 5pm and my appointment was at 515pm. I got there and Kate the receptionist was super friendly and knew who I was as I walked right up. Susan was the one who did my brazillian and Nancy did my manicure.

    Susan/brazillian: she did an EXCELLENT job!! Not only was I comfortable with her right off the bat, she communicated with me so she could understand my needs/what I was used to when getting brazillians/actually know me as a customer.

    Nancy/manicure: she did an amazing job on my manicure. It lasted me a week which is pretty good considering how I'm really bad with manicures. I normally mess them up before I can even leave the nail places lol.

    Altogether my time spent there was 2 hours. Normally I'd want to get in and get out but that place was so relaxing that I didn't mind them actually taking time and care with me. Since I'm always on the go living my fast paced life, it was nice to actually take the time to enjoy being pampered.

    I will definitely be going back there, especially for my brazillians. The price for first time brazillian is $80 and for every clean up after (4-6 weeks) it's only $50. That's an amazing price; especially for her using hard wax on me!!! I want to try their Orchid and Bamboo mani/pedi next time I come in.

  • Review from Carly G.

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    • 5 friends
    • 11 reviews

    Stanford, CA

    1.0 star rating
    7/26/2011

    This place was a huge disappointment. The woman who did my leg wax was very very nice, and I feel terrible about giving such a low rating, but I wasn't there for a chat. The wax was abysmal... I had to shave my legs the next day. It was *that* bad. It was incredibly slow, too - after 70 minutes you'd think that at least it would have been thorough. Nope. I had a few burns, too, to top it all off. Avoid this place for waxing!!

  • Review from Nathalie W.

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    • 14 friends
    • 5 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    7/19/2011

    This is my go to place for nail salons in Palo Alto. It's definitely a bit on the pricier side, but it terms of Palo Alto nail salons, I think it's the best value.

    The facility is super clean and everyone is very friendly. I recommend making reservations in advance and I HIGHLY recommend their Shellac treatment for nails. It once lasted for over a month and on average it lasts for three weeks. Talk about bang for your buck!

  • Review from Emily R.

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    • 0 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/10/2011

    Alan is amazing. I was very nervous about trying a new stylist and colorist after going to the same person in DC for 5 years, but Alan is the best. I've also gotten pedicures here and have been really happy with the results.

  • Review from Melinda K.

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    • 3 friends
    • 9 reviews

    Hollister, CA

    2.0 star rating
    2/1/2011

    I was looking for a new place to get my hair cut, and found this place here on yelp.  I was going for a big look change from long hair to short hair, and was not impressed upon leaving.  My hair was only alright, and not something I would want again.  I have thick hair, and she thinned it out so much that I lost all of my volume!

    On the plus side, it looks like heaven for a pedicure, so I might some back and try that sometime.

  • Review from Melina T.

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    • 15 friends
    • 4 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/2/2011

    So I went in on my bday in desparate need of a mani-pedi and I remembered my friend told me to check them out. FYI last time I went to this other place in Downtwon where they had weird chairs and no spa-style chairs and it took forever and looked awful. Anway that said I was looking for a place that would be a bit nicer and feel more luxurios. So when I went in I was super impressed by the quiet ambience (not all noisy and crazy like most nail spots) and Amy did a extrodinary job. I picked a color for both but then realized I wanted to do Shellac(?) for my hands so she meticulously layered two different colors to get a match to my toes. Also, she used a brush with remover and went back after each coat to make precise corrections. Granted It took awhile but I was so happy with the results I'm kinda sold for life! Plus it's been a week and a half and not a single chip, crack, or dent. It's on like car paint LOL! I definitely dont mind spending a bit more to have those kind of lasting results!

  • Review from Juju F.

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    • 5 friends
    • 132 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    10/6/2011

    Grabbed a deal from travelzoo to try their new massage service. It was an amazing deal and I'm so glad I got it. I got a deep tissue massage from Sean. He was incredibly knowledgeable and was able to help me with my lower back pains. In fact, he even taught me some stretches I could do at home. He was fabulous! Very professional and skilled.  I will be back and so happy to find this place!

  • Review from Joyce S.

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    • 50 friends
    • 302 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    4.0 star rating
    3/5/2011

    I'm a pedi snob, having been a (very) long time patron of Silk in SF. Having recently moved down to Palo Alto, I was really surprised and thrilled to find SimplyBe. The service here is great, and the prices are reasonable. I especially loved the pedi that I got from Daisy who was meticulous and very sweet!

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