Importance of Reading Reviews and Checking Portfolios

We all do it, Right?  Read reviews before making a purchase? I certainly do, and it doesn’t matter if it’s a major purchase OR a $8 item, if there are reviews I am reading them. If you’re pausing to read reviews on an $11 lint roller before hitting that “buy” button, you may as well apply the same technique while searching for a stylist.  When searching for a hairstylist, especially for specific hair types, reading reviews and checking portfolios are crucial steps to ensure you find someone experienced and suitable for your needs. Here's why these steps are important:

Reading Reviews

A woman sitting outdoors in the sun, using her laptop to review hairstylist portfolios and client reviews

photo by Tino Renato via Death to Stock

1. Real Client Experiences:

   Reviews provide insights into other clients' experiences, which can give you a realistic expectation of what to expect from the stylist. Personally, I like to search out the poor reviews first, as they’re usually a good indication of truth. However, positive reviews are what we really want, (obviously). Positive reviews from clients with similar hair types can confirm the stylist's expertise in handling that specific hair type.

2. Consistency in Quality:

   We love a glowing review, and we CERTAINLY love a lot of glowing reviews! Multiple good reviews indicate consistent quality and satisfaction among clients, which is a good sign of the stylist's reliability and skill. Look for patterns in the reviews, such as consistent praise for the stylist's ability to manage curly hair, provide precise cuts for straight hair, or maintain healthy coily hair.

3. Customer Service and Professionalism:

   Reviews often mention aspects like the stylist's professionalism, punctuality, and how they handle customer service issues. Good customer service is important as it contributes to a positive overall experience. We’re here for the good times (and the good hair)!

4. Warnings and Red Flags:

    I mentioned that I like to search for ( if any) negative reviews first, because they’ll often unveil a pattern. Negative reviews can highlight potential issues such as lack of expertise, poor hygiene, or unprofessional behavior. Pay attention to recurring complaints as they might indicate systemic problems.

Checking Portfolios

1. Visual Confirmation of Skills:

   A portfolio showcases the stylist's work, allowing you to see their skills and techniques. Personally, I love a portfolio- it’s a peak into the mind of a creative. By examining before-and-after photos, you can assess how well the stylist handles different hair types and styles.

2. Understanding Style and Aesthetic:

   Everyone has different tastes, which I love. It's part of what makes this world so extraordinary. Each stylist has a unique style and aesthetic. A portfolio helps you determine if their work aligns with your personal preferences. Vibe check! If you prefer a particular styling technique or finish, ensure the stylist’s portfolio reflects that.

3. Versatility and Creativity:

   This is a major marker for me, especially with my unruly hair type, and maybe you too. A diverse portfolio indicates the stylist's versatility and ability to adapt to various hair types and client requests. Look for a range of hairstyles and treatments to see if the stylist can offer creative solutions for your specific hair needs.

4. Professionalism and Attention to Detail:

   High-quality photos and a well-organized portfolio reflect the stylist's professionalism and attention to detail. A meticulously maintained portfolio suggests that the stylist takes pride in their work and is committed to showcasing their best efforts. We don’t really want a portfolio that looks like the kid in middle school who waited until the night before to start on his science fair project, right?

Making an Informed Decision

1. Combining Reviews and Portfolios:

   Now that you have read all the reviews ever and searched through portfolios- use both reviews and portfolios together to get a comprehensive understanding of the stylist's capabilities. Reviews provide context and subjective experiences, while portfolios offer objective visual proof of the stylist’s skills.

2. Personal Consultations:

   Here comes the fun part (at least in my humble opinion)! After narrowing down your options based on reviews and portfolios, schedule consultations to meet the stylists in person. We love a meet and greet, because that’s when you really get a feel for each other. Discuss your hair type, styling preferences, and any concerns to gauge their expertise and comfort level with your specific needs.

3. Building Trust and Confidence:

   And much like dating, you might have to book a few consults before finding a stylist that fits your vibe. Finding a stylist who comes highly recommended and has a strong portfolio builds trust and confidence in their abilities. This helps ensure you feel comfortable and satisfied with the services provided, leading to a better overall experience. Which is really what we want in the end, right?

In summation, as they say… By diligently reading reviews and checking portfolios, you can make an informed decision and find a stylist who is well-equipped to handle your hair type (pass that vibe check!), ensuring you receive the best possible care and styling.