The Impact of a Sound Consultation

My very first memory of going to a hairdresser was walking up a long staircase, holding my mum’s hand. We entered a big, dark room, and the hairdresser spoke only to her. She cut my hair, and that was it. Nothing special. What stood out most wasn’t the style, but the smell - a strong, almost unforgettable scent of perm solution (which I later learned about once I began my own hairdressing career).

What I don’t remember is anyone ever asking me what I wanted or how I felt about my hair. I must have been only six or seven, but that experience stayed with me. It shaped how I approach every client who sits in my chair today.

I’ve been hairdressing for many years, and I truly love what I do. Hair has the power to transform not only how someone looks, but how they feel about themselves.  My purpose is to elevate every client’s experience, to bring out their inner beauty and confidence.

This may sound controversial, but in my salon, I don’t rely on client cards. Well technically, I have very detailed cards, but not a single one has been filled out. Why? Because when a client sits in my chair, I want them to feel comfortable, heard, and understood in that moment. I listen deeply, and I visualise what they want or what I know would look amazing on them.

Someone once told me: “When you can instantly visualise a flattering look for a client who has just walked through the door, you know you have what it takes to be a hairdresser.” Those words have stayed with me.

Don’t get me wrong, in my long career as a hairdresser, I have had about three people walk out of the salon after my consultation. Maybe they were overwhelmed by my questions, or perhaps we just couldn’t connect with each other. BUT, mostly, I have had amazing outcomes after consultations. The best part is when your client starts to feel at ease with you and completely trusts your vision. Because, at the end of the day, it is all about your client.

Whether I see a client regularly, or only two or three times a year, I never skip the consultation. Hair and scalp analysis are essential for choosing the right products each visit. Face shape, head shape, and even body shape play a vital role in determining the haircut length, angles, and the placement of light and dark within the colour.

A sound consultation isn’t just a step, it’s the foundation of our craft. Without it, we aren’t doing justice to our beautiful profession, or to the beautiful person sitting in our chair 💛💛💛

✨ Book your consultation with The Yellow Chair Salon