I am really super picky when it comes to stylists. I feel like many places are expensive just to be expensive, most notably the extremely overpriced day spa/hair styling/massage/pedicure/manicure/jewelry line selling monstrosities around the valley.
After having a sub par experience at one of those places I decided to give Ulta a try. They were running their holiday deal. A cut and accent highlights for $50! Super cheap!
Lacey Jo did my cut and color, during the morning of Christmas Eve. I felt like she understood exactly what I wanted and didn't need too much guidance. I got a graduated bob that I wanted very short in the back. The last place I went to, the stylist pushed me against going super short in the back saying something about it not working well with my hair type. I found that to be odd considering I had it done before and it worked well.
Thankfully Lacey Jo didn't say any such garbage and cut it how I wanted, which was fabulous! She massaged my scalp for what seemed like 15 minutes when she washed it (heaven) and was very nice and personable throughout the experience.
The great thing is, it's only $40 for a cut and $50 for the accent highlights normally which is WAY cheaper than so many other places out there. I was so thrilled with my service here that I booked out my next appointment upon leaving, something I never do.