**edit**
I've had to bring my review down from 5 to 2. Everything below still stands (except for my return to the salon) but I have to confess that my haircut wasn't done very well. Thinning shears were used and I apparently had a big chunk missing from the back which has so far taken 2 cuts to correct. My hair is the same length it was in March and I've been trying to grow it out! =( I don't think I'll be going again.
**edit end**
I just received a cut from Yumi at the North York (Yonge/Sheppard) location. The location itself is a bit bare bones - 2nd level to one of the restaurants in that plaza - but I'm more about the cut than the ambience. I'd love to check out their Wellesley location one day though!
I love the fact that they're open until 8:30pm. It's hard to find a good time for a haircut AND a place I'm willing to try out. Weekday evenings but most places close by 7 pm which is difficult for me to make.
As I was their only client it was just me and Yumi. I had a few photos to show her what I wanted and she pretty much did what I asked. I wish she gave a bit more direction/suggestions (does it fit my face shape, hair type, etc) but any of the cuts in the photos I had wouldn't have been that bad for me anyway.
I wasn't going to get a shampoo because I'm trying to keep in my budget but apparently there was (is?) a promo for 50% off. I wouldn't mind a wash - my hair is usually cut better after one - and I was hoping for a head massage as well, =P There was a bit of a massage but it didn't do anything for me, although I usually can take quite a bit of pressure with massages.
I brought a book with me but didn't open it as our conversation was light and pleasant. It helped that I've been to Japan so we had some common ground to work with.
i'm not completely sold on having them as my regular stylists but I'll definitely go back a second time. For parking, I took a risk with the Sheppard Center where the first hour is free. Make sure you get back within that time or you'll be charged $3.50/20 mins! I got dinged with $7 for getting back in 25 mins. =( So whatever I saved with the shampoo, I lost to parking. *shakes fist*