It's about time I have met an independent stylist who is passionate why they pursue their own business from a chained hair business which will not be named due to bad experiences. After getting a balayage and haircut from Fernando himself who is highly trained from Paul Mitchell schooling, he knows what he is doing, trust the guy, I see a complete difference from other studios in Albuquerque area who compete at the same price as Fernando. Overall Fernando makes a complete effort to get to know you as a person, your hair, and overall makes the best effort to get to know all his clients. After going to Sola Salon where Fernando is located in Uptown you make the appointment yourself to what your schedule fits best your schedule. Like I said Fernando will get to know your hair and I am satisfied and my hair doesn't smell by overusing hair products which you can feel your hair weighting down heavily. As for the balayage, trust the advice of the do and don'ts for balayage, such as not washing for a certain amount of time to get the most out of a balayage. This can become pricey but I trust Fernandos advice, I am addicted to get my hair going lighter and I have complete trust on Fernando and that says a lot to trust one with your own who makes for who you are to be unique. My recommendation is if you're looking someone who is willing to understand you and your hair Fernando is the the guy to go to and he will not disappoint. Now I look more forward to my retouch ups that know my budget & hair cuts! Go to Fernando he gets it & no pressure! :)