I've always heard amazing things about this magical place and everything I heard was true. I was on the hunt for a blowout earlier in the week and nothing but expensive blowout bars/salons and bad yelp reviews turned up (thanks, yelpers for saving my hair). The Aveda Institute came to mind. I called four days out and made a booking no problem. A cut (a trim in my case) at the Institute level (students working on their diplomas) and blowout with tax was $32. Outstanding! The woman I was sitting next to me gets her hair dyed every two weeks worth it at $35.
I walked in and signed a waiver - it's students cutting and colouring your hair. No fear, educators are nearby and check on their work diligently. I was fortunate that my stylist, Cody was graduating in four weeks time and was a pro already. He was hilarious and a pure delight.
The moment I sat down I was asked if I wanted a coffee, tea or water. Love these little touches. Your experience starts with assessing your needs and an educator ensures the cut will work. Then a head massage and light shoulder massage and wash with Aveda product. A trim, blowout and flat iron later, you're out the door in an hour-and-half. Not super unreasonable in my case, as I have a ton of hair. Don't forget to tip your stylist, they are students hustling hard.
P.S. Tell them, I sent you and we'll both save $15 bucks on our next cuts. Sweet deal!