Velarde Salon & Spa

I’m pretty disappointed with my visit today. I decided to give this place another chance but left having the same opinion as before. I booked a single process (because that’s what I had done at another salon days before and I wanted to simply lighten up some yellow spots in my pretty platinum hair) My appointment was at 6- and I made sure to tell the receptionist what was going on to make sure I had enough time. I was greeted with Mary (who was doing my hair) and she asked if I had been there before I said no- and she just hands me a bundled up cape? Or robe? I wasn’t sure because she didn’t say anything… which was weird. Then I proceeded to let her know what was going on. I simply wanted some yellow out of my hair that was maybe 1-1/2 inches from my roots. Just to even out my hair and it may have consisted of some quick bleaching and or toning. As I’m explaining she is looking at me like I’m stupid, she was very condescending and passive aggressive. Saying “sooo what exactly do you want?” And I reiterated I just wanted to even out my hair- that’s all. I didn’t even need foils, I just needed some bleach in not even 10% of my head. I didn’t have preexisting box dye, highlights, my hair was done professionally at a salon everytime- the dilemma i was having was simply just a case of not bleaching enough and needed a quick coat and tone. She then grabs my hair in disgust and says “this was done at home?” I said no…? And the reason I knew the task was so simple was because the woman who did it PREVIOUSLY was able to lighten those problematic areas in an hour with no hesitation. She made it seem like I needed a double processing or foils , which I understand she is the professional I am not. But i have been blonde many times, I’ve done it at home, and I’ve been in a lot of chairs and she was by far the worst. She made me feel embarrassed in front of people next to her and suggested I reschedule and then included the prices. I feel like sometimes these places judge you based off of how you look- as if you don’t know what you’re talking about or you cannot afford it. She just gave very passive aggressive, condescending vibes and seemed like she wanted me out. I won’t be returning to Mario Tricoci ever again. I ended up doing it AT HOME. Mary should have a class on how to treat customers and literally be nicer.

Amazing massage by Kristina. I was first greeted when I came in and guided to the locker room and waiting area. I went early in the morning so i was the only one on the locker room. Kristina was amazing and listened to me and focused on the areas I really needed a massage on. She was very nice and the massage was the perfect balance of great pressure yet relaxing.

Vanessa took 15 inches off and gave me a beautiful short pixie cut. Locks of Love will be getting the hair. Everyone was friendly and courteous. I think someone was sweeping up hair every 10 minutes to keep our area clean. They even called me to come in a little early knowing that the hair would be donated and wanted to make sure she had enough time for me.